Alex McFarland: More Than a Motto — the Fight Between Truth and Modern-Day Values

Obedience. Courage. Influence. Conviction. 

These are the characteristics that will define Christ-followers’ lives, according to the New Testament. These traits are not optional. These are some of the things a believer might consider. These are the characteristics that every Christian should be commanded. To cultivate and to model.

The teachings of Christ, our Savior, are to be followed (Luke 6;46). Believers are to live courageously, seeking not popularity, but the Lord’s approval (Galatians 1:10). 

Those who have accepted Jesus’ gift of salvation are to shape their lives and priorities around God’s revealed truth. Believers must also convince others about Biblical truths that are not known or accepted by the majority of society (II Timothy 2; II Timothy 3:2-17; Jude 1:20-23). 

Christians are to speak truth — even when truth is unpopular (Gal. 1:10)

Today, stand up for biblical truth and you might find yourself standing by yourself. Jesus is right there with you, but be assured!

Two different legacies in contrast 

Two news items recently garnered much press: the death of former Pope Benedict XVI (also known as Joseph Ratzinger) and noted Christian music artist Amy Grant’s announcement to host a lesbian wedding at her farm. 

Ratzinger, who was Pope between 2005 and 2013, will be remembered by many as one of our greatest defenders for core Christian doctrine. As a Cardinal, and later as Pontiff, he consistently stood for the biblical position on key issues of our day: marriage, abortion, homosexuality, gender, the deity of Jesus, Christ’s resurrection, the authority of Scripture, objective moral truth, and more.

Ratzinger understood that God’s revealed truth is objective (not based on personal opinion), timeless (not subject to the changing tides of culture), and unifying Christians from all walks of life should unite around the core truths and principles of the Gospel.

The news media was harshly critical of his ministry after his death. They called the late Pope “narrow,” He claimed he was anti-abortion, homophobic and Islamophobic. These barbs of the pagan media should be considered compliments for a Christian. Joseph Ratzinger was a man with conviction, courage and influence. It wasn’t his goal to please a God-rejecting universe. 

On a very different note, as commentators opined on Pope Benedict’s legacy, popular contemporary singer Amy Grant made headlines for hosting (and paying for) her niece’s “gay” wedding. Amy Grant has made a name for herself as a musician and is well-known to her Christian fans. Primarily known as a “contemporary Christian” One might assume Grant would be able to live and maintain biblical positions.

Amy Grant’s condoning public of a gay wedding is not the first time she has faced criticism from her Christian followers. Grant responded that she was justified in hosting a gay wedding when asked. “Love God, love people. That is what I’m called to do.”

This sounds great on the surface. Christians have to live by more than catchy slogans. We are called to be a part of the movement and to proclaim it. “the whole counsel of God.”

Amy Grant might believe that Amy Grant is talking about ‘love’ Avoids public relations issues with her fans. But if we’re tempted to stay silent on things about which Scripture speaks loudly, this question should be asked: “Is it truly loving (and honest) to give tacit approval to a lifestyle that Scripture says if not repented of will keep people out of heaven?” (Romans 1:24; I Corinthians 6:9-11; Ephesians 5:3).

There are many differences between truths and values

The privilege of salvation comes with the responsibility of discipleship. We are agreeing that we will live by His Word when we put our faith in Jesus Christ to save us. Accepting the gift of “sonship,” We also accept the responsibility “followship.” The message of the believer is not vague. “values;” we will clearly speak Truth The Holy Spirit will use this to convict sinners, and to draw them to Jesus Christ.

Everybody has “values.” Christians are however entrusted the revealed Words of God. There is a huge difference between the two. “values” And “truth.” Values are part of ever-changing cultures. Truth is timeless and unchanging. Scholars define truth “that which corresponds to reality.” 

Values are often based on our ideas and preferences. This is fine as long as it does not interfere with the “values” The truths and rights of the things we discuss are consistent with God’s Word. When it comes to morality, human life and redemption, as well as eternity, people need to be exposed to more than the subjective. values. Humanity needs it truth.

Today, nebulous personal “values” These are not life-saving measures that could save America from drowning. People need to hear the truth.

Dr. Alex McFarland is a youth, religion and culture expert, a national talk show host and speaker, author of more than 20 books and Exploring the Word American Family Radio Network, broadcasting on almost 200 radio stations across the U.S. He also hosts The “Alex McFarland Show,” It airs on NRB TV every week.