Hey Richard,
(name withheld) here from some previous communications. I was speaking to ya about the things concerning, mainly, the freedoms of preaching the Gospel. Hope I did not annoy you when I gave examples that can be followed of Paul and especially of Jesus. Anyway, I hope you are well and that we can continue. Oh by the way, I make no excuses at trying to influence the thinking of people. After all, exchange ideas must have some results.
In Jesus’ Service,
name withheld
I have but a single purpose for my life,
To know Jesus & to make Jesus known.
Hi (name withheld),
Thanks for remembering me.
I am never annoyed by examples of another’s beliefs. In fact I have learned from them both in the positive and sadly in the negative.
It is conceivable that the “Great Commission” has been a bit overzealously pursued and often turns from bringing a good word to the masses to stuffing it down their throats.
I’m of the school of thought that finds bringing ideas to receptive, consenting, curious people is perfectly reasonable. I do not subscribe to or condone any proselytizing that is coercive, overbearing, unwelcome, illegal or forced.
The great commission is not a secular constitutional law. It may not supercede secular constitutional law.
Preaching the Gospel is not easy nor is it a universal pursuit. Jesus had great ideas whether he became God or not and his thoughts should be available to as many who would receive them. It is when forceful dissemination of his word is undertaken that preaching the Gospel loses its original goal and becomes misguided.
I’m short on time today but would be happy to continue our communication as time permits.
Cheers,
Rick
