So much online tries to pull us into arguments about putting our morals and ethics above leading others to salvation. Some bloggers - even ministers - even muddy the waters with foolishness about Muslim morality, Hindu morality, on top of silly arguments about "morality versus ethics."
One good article I wish I could find again, points out that many, many people groups teach that an individual earns salvation in Jesus through good works, when nothing could be further from truth.
The Bible comforts us in saying, "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." The Bible tells of New Testament disciples who searched the scriptures to reassure themselves that what was being preached was true.
And the Bible encourages us to "correct" one another, as members of Jesus, "in the Spirit of gentleness."
The good article I mentioned is a reminder that the Holy Spirit is our guide as people who already know Jesus. And His word is food for our daily journey.
In Jesus, we know anyone can have personal morals, and that ethics are only what we express as groups of people who have shared values or morals (Romans 2:14-15).
But for the Christian, personal values are outgrowths of heartfelt faith, outgrowths of the salvation in Jesus that God freely gave us. Personal values, for the Christian, are part of maturing: growing in sanctification over the whole of whatever life span we have after realizing salvation.
Without personal convictions, we make poor witnesses in the faith.
... Jesus, help us in our walk, every day (Proverbs 4:27). Help us pick up your easy to carry cross each day, and live.
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