Minister's Message Summer 2011

Controversy will create conflict. It divides people’s opinions and emotions. The legal and medical worlds are strewn in controversy as they face moral dilemmas and disputable evidence. Contention, anger and bitterness are all in the mix with opposing viewpoints.

Martin Luther King Jr said, The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.

Jesus was a controversialist. He was constantly in a head on collision with the religious people of his day. They watched and listened to him in order to pick fault and criticize. No sweet words or expensive meals or compliments could buy him over.

For us right now in the summer of 2011 we may be caught up in some contentious issues and have strong passionate opinions about life…..and God. Sometimes our opinions are more emotional fiction than reasoned fact. It is possible that as we peel off the veneer of our real feelings, we find it is wrapped up in anger, pride and insecurity. It is very easy for our strong opinions to build a wall preventing us seeing the other side. This was certainly true of those who accused and saw Jesus as a demon and a deceiver.

Jesus asked the question; Who do people say that I am? Certainly he is far from the image people give him as …..gentle Jesus meek and mild. He stood up to defend the poor and the disadvantaged, gave depth and dignity to people. The person who is honest and free from prejudiced thoughts will come to the conclusion that Jesus was far more than a remarkable person.

The Controversial Christ came to be the answer to your needs. Check out Who Is Jesus for more information.