My good friend James wrote a thought provoking piece on the division among Christians over the recent arrests of evangelists passing out material at the Dearborn Arabic Fest, A House Divided Against Itself?
So, the essential facet of truth here really is simple. What is the dividing line between the local and visiting ministers? Well, I believe that the local ministries may not truly understand that itinerant ministry is a Biblical norm and when someone converts they should be plugged in. I also believe that the visiting ministries may not fully comprehend the delicate balance that is upset when they come in to town en masse and leave en masse with a whirlwind of controversy that could possibly be avoided or minimized by using a little more tact, or shrewdness. But, in consideration of all perspectives, no side will get it entirely right.
But, opposition to the message of Jesus Christ is a good indicator that men are being convicted or confronted, and the enemy writhes with discontent when the truth of the Bible is set forth in his deepest and darkest strongholds, Islam. I suppose I would leave you to be the judge of the entire ordeal. As for me, I say amen for the brethren withstanding persecution for our Lord's namesake. If men praise you, be weary...but if they persecute you, it is because they first persecuted Him.
Which message do you want to preach?
James has lived in the areas surrounding Dearborn his entire life and knows the area and the people, as well as many of those who witness to Muslims in Dearborn. This is a perplexing question and one that will continue to be an issue for the church as what we call "Christianity" stops being the majority report in America. We could all stand to extend some grace to those who are willing to openly proclaim the Gospel as well as to those who build relationships with unbelievers in their own community.
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