"The God who made the world and all that is in it, the Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in sanctuaries made by human hands, nor is he served by human hands because he needs anything." Acts 17:24
There is a fascinating word in Greek spermologus which is sometimes translated blabberer, and is often accusatory in tone. More literally it refers to birds picking seeds from the ground, and some commentators suggest St Paul was accused of being a spermologus, someone willing to say anything when trying to convince the elite of Athens about the truth of the Gospel.
Whether Paul was a blabberer or not, we know that we can sometimes prattle on about nothing when we feel pressured or under attack. Afraid that we might lose an argument or be embarrassed, we speak so much that others find an excuse to get away from us This is not the way of Jesus. While it is important to know and respect the cultures out of which people hear the Good News, there is no need to try to please others or soften the power of the Gospel.
The Good News is simple, direct and freeing. We have only to let it breathe, to give it space so that others can know the compassion and love of God. Trying too hard to make the Gospel palatable will, in the long run, do nothing for God or the spreading of the Good News.
Today, use fewer words and more actions to proclaim God's love.
What situations most tempt you to speak too much?
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