Friendship is by definition a mutual arrangement, a two-way street. Dr. Martin Luther King spoke of us all being bound up in an “inescapable web of mutuality.” They called Jesus a “friend of sinners,” which, for my money, implies more than that he was nice to bad people. He valued their friendship as much as they …
Sinners Befriending Sinners
Rahabs are untouchables who have been pushed out to the margins of society and been refused citizenship in the center with the rest and the “best” of us. Remember, it’s a “friendship” quest into which God has invited us. Neil Cole said, “The Gospel flies best on the wings of relationships.” Friendship is by definition …
Vulnerability and Mutual Trust
My general rule of thumb is to convey the radical cost of accepting or rejecting the gospel at a level commensurate with the trust I’ve built with someone. Otherwise it feels like I’m shouting at them from across the chasm to come over to our side. Once they trust me they’ll be more apt to …
Safe People with a Dangerous Message
Good witnesses are safe people with a dangerous message. We’re safe because we’re real and genuinely care about what’s best for people. The message, on the other hand, is dangerous because when Jesus moves in he takes over. He knocks down the walls and replaces all the furniture. Receiving him is dangerous and rejecting him …
For the Love of God, Love a Dealer!
When Richard Nixon resigned and held up in isolation no one visited him for fear of sullying their reputation, no one except Chuck Colson who risked the trip many times. When asked about it later he said, “To let Mr. Nixon know that someone loved him.” I have a bunch of drug-doing––as well as a …
