- Baptist Press - https://www.baptistpress.com -

Christian Citizenship/Religious Liberty Sunday — July 1, 2001

[1]

“Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good” Romans 12:21

Our reaction to criticism and overt discrimination is a telling barometer of the depth of our love for Christ and for those for whom Christ suffered and died. When we are treated unjustly or ridiculed because of our witness, the way we answer such mistreatment reveals the authenticity of our faith. Indeed, our very testimony is at stake.

Because our witness itself is truly offensive to those who do not know Christ, our words and actions offered in love may provoke others.

According to Jesus, we are “to love (our) enemies, bless those who curse (us), do good to those who hate (us) and pray for those who spitefully use and persecute (us)” (Matt. 5:44 NIV).

Please feel free to download either image for use in church bulletins or websites. Simply click on either picture for a high resolution image and instructions on how to download.

[2]