Grace and Truth
In
John 1, the apostle declared that Jesus was “full of grace and truth” (John
1:14). Wow.
Let’s think about
that. As I see it, grace and truth do not lie at either ends of a spectrum.
That separates them too far from each other. However, I do think they have to
be held in tension. Both are needed in the life of any follower of Jesus.
We can’t utilize
one without the other, however. For example, we can’t be all about truth and
ignore grace. In other words, we can’t JUST be concerned about truth. When we
lose touch with grace, we become hardened and calloused toward others. If all
we care but is truth, we miss the opportunity to carefully express truth. Our
expressions are uncaring and can even be damaging to others.
On the other hand,
we can’t be all about grace. If we JUST are concerned about grace, we can lose
touch with the truth. When this happens, we lose any sense of judgement or
discernment. We can become people who don’t really believe anything—thus,
anything goes. This too, can be damaging to others.
Somehow, we must
aspire to be like Jesus—namely, full of grace AND truth. We must learn to
embrace the truths of the Gospel and learn to express them graciously. We don’t
have the option of just believing. We have to behave as well.
So, when we
encounter difficult and sensitive topics—we must keep this in mind. As I
observed the debate at our annual meeting as Texas Baptists, I kept thinking
about grace and truth. We were discussing the very sensitive topic of human
sexuality. We all know our society is embroiled in a debate about it. Churches
are debating it as well.
My personal
conviction about human sexuality is in line with the historic, orthodox
Christian position. However, as I live out that commitment to truth and express
my belief in it—I must do so graciously.
I will not
surrender my belief. I am committed to it. But I am also just as committed to
express my beliefs through both gracious words and gracious behavior. It is
hard to do. But, I must follow the example of Jesus. In the famous story of
John 8:1-11, Jesus shows us how to do it. I would encourage you to read that
text and look for grace and truth.
I am praying for
myself as we navigate the challenges we face today. I am praying for you as
well.
