There are all kinds of people in the world; some you grow to just love and some just being around becomes very difficult to endure. One of my pat sayings is " you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him eat pizza". Which is my way of saying that everyone is different and sometimes no matter what you say or do, those around you have the choice to be influenced or not. Those who refer to themselves as Christians are not all Christians. Sad, but true!!! This picture illustrates that fact. It appears a certainty that at least SOME of the people at VICTORY Family Worship Center (wherever that is) just don't get it. I like to think that perhaps this is perhaps just a poorly chosen title for a sermon and it ends there. Lets hope so!!! This picture probably is about anti-Christian propaganda and if so, is unfair to all the true followers of Jesus. However, this sort of thing has been going on since the beginning of Christianity and we just have to deal with it and move on. Feel alone in this? Don't; Paul did too...
WEB: Philippians Chapter 1
[12] Now I desire to have you know, brothers, that the things which happened to me have turned out rather to the progress of the Good News; [13] so that it became evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my bonds are in Christ; [14] and that most of the brothers in the Lord, being confident through my bonds, are more abundantly bold to speak the word of God without fear. [15] Some indeed preach Christ even out of envy and strife, and some also out of good will. [16] The former insincerely preach Christ from selfish ambition, thinking that they add affliction to my chains; [17] but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the Good News.
[18] What does it matter? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed. I rejoice in this, yes, and will rejoice. [19] For I know that this will turn out to my salvation, through your supplication and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, [20] according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will in no way be disappointed, but with all boldness, as always, now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life, or by death. [21] For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. [22] But if I live on in the flesh, this will bring fruit from my work; yet I don’t know what I will choose. [23] But I am in a dilemma between the two, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. [24] Yet, to remain in the flesh is more needful for your sake. [25] Having this confidence, I know that I will remain, yes, and remain with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, [26] that your rejoicing may abound in Christ Jesus in me through my presence with you again.
Why do people do the things they do? The answer is just like the subject... humanity. Just as every human is different, so are the motives for their actions. And when you think you really know someone... well, then you are set up for an eye opener. I know, people have surprised me all my life. So, whatever the motives, if someone is trying to proclaim Christ, try to give them the benefit of doubt until they have proven beyond all reason they are wrong. After all, its up to us to have Paul's attitude to live for Christ and the share the Gospel. Motives are really only known to the individual and to Almighty God.