Saturday, October 28, 2023

Simple Acts of Kindness Can Make a Difference

by Michael Donahoe

In a day when tempers seem to flare more often and people seem to be less kind to others, it does not take much to make a difference in the life of someone you meet.

We hear on the news and social media the acts of rage, discrimination, meanness, lack of respect and overall disregard for other human beings.

We have racial discrimination, exclusion of the LGBTQ family, gender discrimination, and on and on it goes. Yet underneath all the labels are human beings who are loved by God and are to be loved by us.

My feeling is, no matter what you think is right or wrong, whichever way you choose to live your life, there is no reason to treat others with judgment and condemnation and there is no reason to force your way of living on others. Being respectful, kind and accepting of others does not mean we always agree. We can treat others with kindness and as equals and still stick with our individual beliefs.

Being nice to people can change their attitude and outlook for the day. Giving others a smile, respect, doing a simple act of kindness can touch someone who is frustrated, depressed or just losing hope in the whole human race.

Rather than always being against someone or trying to force your views and way of life on others, put aside your personal beliefs when it comes to others and treat them with kindness and respect. To me that is following the example of Jesus and a way of encouraging a fellow human being who can then pass it along to others.

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Michael Donahoe was added as a writer as his views fit perfectly with those of Done with Religion. He also writes on Substack at https://personalmeanderings.substack.com/

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

What Is Jesus Really Advising On The Sermon On The Mount?

By Mike Edwards

Non-church goers may have never heard of Jesus’ most popular sermon (Matthew 5-7). I was listening to a sermon on this familiar passage by a very reasonable, respected pastor. I thought as I listened how some individuals may come away disheartened that God isn’t empathetic toward their circumstances. Sometimes passages need to be nuanced to explain how certain advice may not be applicable to their situation. We have to discern when Jesus was using hyperbole for emphasis without stating exceptions.

 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. 

  • Jesus wasn’t condemning all kinds of anger, or why then would Jesus call out religious hypocrites – “you blind fools” (Mt 23:17)? Sounds angry to me! Not all anger is the same. There is righteous anger. I would preach anger in general can get us in trouble, but there are always individual circumstances where God is mad as Hell as you are. Discern if your angry is what Jesus is addressing.

23 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.

  • It is hard to be right with God if not right with others if reconciliation is possible and you know you are clearly in the wrong. But Jesus certainly didn’t always seek out the Pharisees to smooth things over. This passage may be encouraging us to reconcile with those that we know we have sinned against. We should try to make it right. If someone has sinned against you, that is on them. Be open to reconciliation if they approach you and seem sincere.

27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’[e] 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

  • No contextual or interpretation problems here. Adultery and other sins have a beginning – often beginning in the heart or mind. Find a way to shut it down. It is never worth it!

39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. 40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. 41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

  • I think speakers should always clarify they aren’t advocating women stay silent at the abusive hands of men or other abusive situations. Jesus surely is advising not responding evil with evil, not that one can’t protect themselves. The context is “not an eye for an eye.” In war if the enemy rapes and beheads, don’t respond in the same way. But, evil is real and may require protection and killing. I think Jesus was trying to get people to look for ways to change hearts in certain situations. Seek justice when appropriate not revenge.

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor[i] and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

  • Preachers often bring up what Jesus said on the Cross – “God forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing.” Maybe Jesus’ persecutors didn’t know that Jesus was really who He claimed to be. Still, I admit if I was Jesus I would have hopped off the Cross and kicked their ass with miraculous powers. Does a father who sexually abuses his child not know what they are doing? We mustn’t speak as if every situation is the same!

What is Jesus’ message to you?

Honestly, I don’t know what God would advise in your situation. Try to be open to God’s influence. One may not seek reconciliation with a friend who refuses to admit any wrongdoing. Cutting them off could lead to better reflection. The Apostle Paul in one situation said “Expel the wicked person from your perspective” (I Cor 5:1-13). Isolation can bring one to their moral senses. Every situation is different. Read the Bible to discern for yourselves, perhaps with the help of friends, what the application is in your difficult circumstances. Consider how to go the extra mile. Consider what actions might possibly lead to reconciliation or change in hearts if others open.

What Is Jesus Really Advising On The Sermon On The Mount?

MikeEdwardsprofilepic125

Mike Edwards has been writing for Done with Religion for some time and has been a great addition to the site. Mike also has his own site where he writes that can be found at What God May Really Be Like  He can be contacted by email at: medwar2@gmail.com 

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