THE EXPERIENCE STUDY
Principled Speech
By Christopher Thompson
Our TV screens, social media ads, and radio airwaves are inundated with campaign ads, political speeches, and political debates. Here’s what I have paid close attention to of late. I study how and what the candidate communicates, compared to what is/has been their public record. Here’s what I know for sure. The greatest test is for words to match our work. Jesus is our example, and Jesus always acted according to principle.
Read Luke 23:6-12
This exchange is borderline bizarre. It is one of the most profound images of Jesus. He knows Herod doesn’t have the right mindset. Miracles are not for entertainment. This is not a magic show. Therefore, He remained silent.
This exchange is borderline bizarre. It is one of the most profound images of Jesus. He knows Herod doesn’t have the right mindset. Miracles are not for entertainment. This is not a magic show. Therefore, He remained silent.
Review Matthew 14:1-12
Think on this. John the Baptist was Jesus’s biological cousin. While we can’t be sure of exactly how Jesus felt about Herod, what we do know is that He hadn’t forgotten it.
Think on this. John the Baptist was Jesus’s biological cousin. While we can’t be sure of exactly how Jesus felt about Herod, what we do know is that He hadn’t forgotten it.
Compare Luke 23:6-12 with Luke 13:31-33.
Is it wrong that Jesus referred to Herod as a fox? The tone certainly seems disparaging. Could it be that Jesus knew that Herod was corrupt to the core? How do you relate to such a person?
Is it wrong that Jesus referred to Herod as a fox? The tone certainly seems disparaging. Could it be that Jesus knew that Herod was corrupt to the core? How do you relate to such a person?
Compare Matthew 7:6, Proverbs 27:46, Matthew 15:26
The Bible makes it clear that some people and situations are best not to be entertained. Can you think of a time when it was best that you be quiet or bow out altogether?
The Bible makes it clear that some people and situations are best not to be entertained. Can you think of a time when it was best that you be quiet or bow out altogether?
Study Hebrews 12:2, Isaiah 53:7
Notice that Jesus was resolute concerning His purpose. Reflect on a time when you were tempted to fold under pressure against your purpose and values.
Notice that Jesus was resolute concerning His purpose. Reflect on a time when you were tempted to fold under pressure against your purpose and values.
Read Acts 5:27-33
Notice how even under the threat of death, the apostles would not relinquish their conviction. In what ways are you being challenged right now that require that you to reaffirm your stance?
Notice how even under the threat of death, the apostles would not relinquish their conviction. In what ways are you being challenged right now that require that you to reaffirm your stance?
Read Daniel 3:16-18.
Jesus lived according to principle. The three Hebrew boys lived according to principle. May we be found amongst those who maintained their integrity even in the midst of fierce trial.
Jesus lived according to principle. The three Hebrew boys lived according to principle. May we be found amongst those who maintained their integrity even in the midst of fierce trial.
CHRISTOPHER C. THOMPSON, D. MIN is an adjunct professor in the School of Religion and Theology at Oakwood University. He serves as the Executive Director of Thumbs Up, Inc., and pastor of Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina.