What Kind of "Jesus" do we Portray?

The burning of the Koran did not play out. But the effects were still felt, almost as much as if it had. A New York Times article detailed the international responses that this threat made by a Florida pastor and his congregation created: protest were held, missionaries live were endangered, political leaders spoke out.

I found it very discouraging that Christians would even think to act this way. These Christians created anger and uproar around the globe and contradicted the teachings of Scripture. Romans 12:18 calls us to "if possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men." A muslim student was quoted in the article expressing his frustration with Americans, "They talk about peace, they say they want peace. Is this peace?"

At my church service today the topic at hand was address in the sermon. We are currently studying Acts and in chapter 19 there is an example of book burning. These books were evil, following satanic practices and an abomination to God. The believers therefore burned them. Some Christians may use this passage as support of the Koran buring, but, as my Pastor pointed out, there are key facts that are different in the bibical example. The books that were burned belonged to the new believers, these man were not buring books just to send a message. They, instead were giving physical testimony of the new life that they were living and removing any idol that has once ruled their hearts.

We need to make sure that we portray the real Jesus, a Savior of love and truth. He never looked to offend others, although this did occur. As believers, our lifestyle will offend, but that should not be our goal. Our goal is to love the world and tell of Jesus' power to forgive.