I have decided to tell the truth...no turning back, no turning back

[josephback]

Hi everybody. I have come to a conclusion lately that maybe some will appreciate. As a former Protestant I had bad memories and used to call said beliefs rather seeming un-nice things - like “stupid false religion”. Recently I have tried to downplay such things not wanting to turn people away or be “uncharitable”. But with the possible exception of the word ‘stupid’ I have come to the conclusion that this in itself is uncharitable. The best thing to do in evangelization is to tell the truth, and when that isn’t done to stay silent. Beating around the bush and trying not to offend people accomplishes absolutely nothing of value. and just leads people on. I’m not saying we should insult people - witness Paul before the Aeropagus - but we should be charitable enough to tell where we really stand. What say thee CAF?

 

[Trishie]

The Gospels frequently reveal Jesus as being outspoken regarding the truth even where it offended others…but of course we must follow His example charitably.
God bless you

 

[fermat]

1 Peter 3:15-17

Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope,
but do it with gentleness and reverence, keeping your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who defame your good conduct in Christ may themselves be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that be the will of God, than for doing evil.

Always be ready. Be polite. The truth can shine a bright light on some ugly things. Be prepared to get thumped.

 

[Edward_H]

Our apostolate, our evangelization, really begins and ends with an “overflow of the Holy Spirit”. We need to make sure our interior life is vital and deepening. It gains a steadiness and a surety; a serenity in growing ever closer to Truth develops. And over time and with much prayer and humility, others will sense the Holy Spirit in us. And then opportunities, just about always 1 on 1, slowly develop for us, where in we can engage in easy, natural and substantial conversations.

It occurs at God’s pace, not ours. But it is the result of the Holy Spirit overflowing in us, quietly, confidently.