Last Sunday (February 20, 2011) we officially concluded our series called “The Difference” where we’ve been (1) examining other major world religions and worldviews, and (2) comparing key beliefs of these other religions with evangelical Christianity.  Click here to be directed to our “messages” page at www.brookside where you can listen to Sunday morning messages online.  For “The Difference” series, scroll down to Jan-Feb 2011.)

Over the course of the series, it’s been encouraging to hear of the ways these messages have impacted Brooksiders in a “big picture” way:

First, I’ve heard how these last few weeks have drawn attention again to the incomparable beauty of the gospel, and to what makes Christianity distinct when lined up to other worldviews.  Too often we can grow “familiar” with our faith and forget to keep in mind what drew us to faith in Jesus in the first place.  May these lessons draw us into fresh worship of Jesus, renewed allegiance to Jesus, and sacrificial action for Jesus.

A second overarching lesson that we’ve returned to repeatedly throughout this series is this: The spirit in which we interact with people who believe very different things than Christians is important.  The world in which the New Testament was written was just as pluralistic as ours (perhaps more so); we can (and should) therefore turn to God’s Word for wisdom and truth not only on what Christians should believe but also for wisdom and truth on how Christians should approach those with other beliefs.  Below we’ve included two New Testament verses that have guided our thinking; as you read them, look especially for truth on how to approach and interact with those who aren’t believers.

• 1 Peter 3:15 (ESV): “…in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”

• Colossians 4:5-6 (ESV): “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time.  Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer each person.”

As with every series we preach (and every sermon, for that matter), the ultimate issue is finally how we act on these lessons we learn; how we apply and respond to what we hear (Matthew 7:24-27).  So here are the key questions: How should the incomparable beauty of the gospel shape your life – your thoughts, attitudes, actions, and relationships?  How can your life be an example of a Christian approach to those with different beliefs, interactions characterized by gentleness, respect, graciousness, and wisdom, as we explain the hope that is ours as Christians?