The Bible teaches us that, when announcing the Gospel, we can encounter opposition, both from people who do not believe in the message and from those who want to distort it. But how can we deal with this opposition?
In 3 John 1:9-10, the apostle John writes about a man named Diotrephes who opposed the work of John and his colleagues. John says that Diotrephes “loves to be first among them” and that he “did not receive us hospitably, and forbade those who do and cast them out of the church.”
From this example, we can see that opposition can come from within the Christian community itself, from people seeking power or influence. But as Christians we must stand firm in the truth of the Gospel and not give in to the pressure of those who seek to distort or divert it.
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul writes about the armor of God, which includes truth as a belt and righteousness as a breastplate. He encourages us to stand firm in our faith and resist the wiles of the enemy (Ephesians 6:13-14).
Furthermore, in 1 Peter 3:15, Peter exhorts us to always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks us about our faith, but with gentleness and respect. This means that in dealing with opposition we must be kind and loving, but without compromising the truth of the Gospel.
Prayer is also a powerful tool for dealing with opposition. In Philippians 4:6-7, Paul tells us not to be anxious about anything, but to pray and bring our concerns to God. When we face opposition, we can pray that God would give us wisdom and insight to handle the situation wisely and lovingly.
In summary, opposition to the truth of the Gospel can come from different sources and forms, but as Christians, we must stand firm in the truth, resist the wiles of the enemy, and deal with opposition with love, meekness, and wisdom, always praying to God for guidance. and discernment.
Aprofunde seus conhecimentos
220. In what does the sacramental economy consist?
396. When does one commit a venial sin?
417. Is such a law perceived by everyone?
55. What is divine providence?
259. What is required of one who is to be baptized?
282. How is Christ present in the Eucharist?
170. What is the bond that exists between the Catholic Church and non-Christian religions?
Acesse nossos estudos biblicos:
What does Jesus’ statement “I am the resurrection and the life” in John 11:25-26 mean?
What did Jesus teach about loving your neighbor? (Matthew 22:39)
What is Abraham’s example of faith, and what can we learn from him? (Hebrews 11:8-12)
How important is God’s love to our lives, according to 1 John 4:8?
How does the story of Rich and Lazarus warn us about the consequences of greed? (Luke 16:19-31)
How are God’s justice and mercy revealed in Isaiah? (Isaiah 58:1-14)
