#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin
Key Bible Verse:
“All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.” — Romans 3:23 (NIV)
Have you ever felt frustrated by the hypocrisy you see in some Christians? It’s a struggle many of us face, but it’s important to remember that the truth of Christianity doesn’t hinge on the actions of its followers. Let’s dive into why the historical and theological claims of our faith matter more.
Apologetic Insight:
(from Greek ἀπολογία, ‘speaking in defense’) Defending and explaining faith with reason and evidence.
C.S. Lewis poignantly noted that Christians can be both the best argument for and against Christianity. This paradox is rooted in the core doctrine that all humans are fallen and sinful (Romans 3:23). As J. Warner Wallace points out in his book “Cold-Case Christianity,” the historical evidence supporting the resurrection of Jesus is compelling and stands independent of the behavior of Christians. Similarly, William Lane Craig emphasizes in “Reasonable Faith” that the trustworthiness of the Bible is affirmed through historical and archaeological evidence, not by the moral perfection of its adherents.
The fact that Christians struggle with sin doesn’t disprove Christianity; rather, it underscores the doctrine of human fallenness and the need for redemption through Christ. As Paul Copan explains in “Is God a Moral Monster?”, the transformative power of the Gospel is evident in the lives of many believers who strive to live out Christ’s teachings, despite their imperfections.
Encouragement & Application:
It’s okay to feel disappointed by hypocrisy, but let it push you to seek the truth of Christianity for yourself. Dive into the historical evidence, read the Scriptures, and engage with a community that can support your journey. Remember, your faith is about your relationship with Jesus, not the flaws of others.
Reflection Questions:
- How does understanding human fallenness help you navigate the hypocrisy you might see in others?
- What steps can you take to explore the historical and theological claims of Christianity more deeply?
Prayer:
Lord, help us to see beyond the imperfections of others and focus on the truth of Your Word. Guide us as we seek to understand the historical evidence of Your life, death, and resurrection. Strengthen our faith and help us to be a positive reflection of Your love, even as we acknowledge our own shortcomings. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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