For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. (Luke 21:15)
Coexist…The word bids brotherhood, the concept boasts biblical, as in: “live peaceably with all men.” But we know that serpent is subtle! What better way to sell a story than to slip in a half truth, making the whole lie sound more believable?
“Contradict” is the dueling bumper sticker to “coexist”. It shows a clear picture of why religious unity is an impossible lie. Belief systems representing multiple gods with opposing laws can’t all be true. “Coexist” calls the world to live as one while denying the One who gives life to all. Jesus warned of times like these in Luke 21. Before His return, when there are increased famines, earthquakes, and wars, there will be persecution of His followers. From first I read this, till today, His advice struck my heart: “And so you will bear testimony to me. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.” (v. 13-15)
Confrontation puts my stomach in knots, but untruth and injustice compel me to speak up. In those instances, I tend to play and replay debates in my mind. Fess up, you do it too! Our Creator knows this about us and that could very well be why Jesus addressed it here. The Greek word “promeletan” translates “to prepare beforehand”, much like one would practice for a speech. I waste so much time rehearsing valid points and clever comebacks because truth needs to be heard. Yet, when it comes to defending God’s Word, we don’t need to argue about it. We should read and know it, study and memorize (to personally understand and grow), but we were never commanded to contentiously convince anyone. God is the One who changes hearts. Our part to influence unity in the world, our one word when tested, is testify! Tell of His goodness, tell of His love, power, grace, forgiveness. Tell how He won your heart and changed your life. No one can argue that! Pray for opportunities and allow His Spirit to do the talking.
In context, this scripture is speaking of persecution, which may not be too far off in our free country. The Bible warns it will come from without and within, from the world and the church, from strangers, family and friends. When it does come knocking on your door, remember, God will be your advocate, your voice, with words of wisdom no one can refuse or refute. No need to practice or panic. Verse 18 assures, with an eternal perspective, “not a hair on your head will be lost.” Therefore, (v. 19) we are to possess our souls with “hupomone” (patience), which is described not just as waiting patiently but with enduring strength.
There will be, in end times, one government, one currency and one religion contradicting the Sovereign One. But if we’ve already surrendered to Christ, we don’t need to fear all that. Right now, the Eternal One lives in us! Talk about coexisting – flesh and Spirit constantly at odds. Jesus is our only access to unity – the one Way to the one true God. So, let’s testify! Use that one word to share The Word with the world.
SHINE, always
Cheryl