I appeal to you, Dr Jones, please think this through again.Consider the words of Paul writing to the Galatians - 'The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control.' (Galatians 5:22-23) He adds in verse 25, 'Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit'.
Just take the first word, 'love'. Didn't Jesus call us to love our enemies? (Matthew 5:44, Luke 6:27, Luke 6:35) Burning a book that many people value and revere doesn't seem to fit the concepts of love, kindness, or gentleness.
I have to ask you therefore, in the name of Jesus Christ, to please reconsider the Qur'an burning. Change your mind now before it is too late, not because I am asking you, but because Jesus himself is asking you.
And to any Muslims out there who may be reading this. I have heard it said that Islam is a religion of peace. If that is so I am glad and commend you. However, I follow Jesus (Isa) who is also one of your prophets, and he came in peace. He calls his followers to be a people of peace. One of his titles is Prince of Peace.
He once said, 'Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of the Most High.' (Matthew 5:9)
Thank you for reading this through to the end. My prayer is that the truth carried by Jesus will enter the hearts and minds of each of you and illuminate your innermost being with his peace and grace and joy.
Yes Chris, you are exactly right! I question the joy this church has. I have seen Christians act in such ungodliness, and do it "in the name of Jesus". It breaks my heart, I know it grieves the Holy Spirit. When will such inappropriate zealots grasp the concept that "...the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God."? (James 1:20) It is the GOODNESS of God that leads to repentance (Rms. 2:4) Destroying something someone values is not going to minister life to them. In fact, and this is my concern, it will probably fuel more hatred putting those in uniform overseas in great peril. Hatred begets hatred. Oh I pray that this church and its Pastor have a change of heart.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the encouragement, Teresa. I was compelled to post on this issue, I also left a copy as a comment on Dove World Outreach Center's website. I'm waiting to see if they reply.
ReplyDeleteI think all I can do now is pray.
I can agree and pray with you. I am in agreement with you, and praying and believing with you. Love never fails. Therefore, I am keeping my heart gentle with this man and his church, choosing to love rather than judge him. Father, show this man how to receive Your love in order for him to see others with your eyes, in order for him to recognize and utilize wisdom toward his fellow man, men that You love.
ReplyDelete