Should I Respond?      
 

by Justin Brewer

 

"Do not answer a fool according to his folly, Lest you also be like him. Answer a fool according to his folly, Lest he be wise in his own eyes" (Proverbs 26:4-5). The last couple of days, I've observed a few conversations to which I would apply these two verses written by King Solomon. At a quick glance, it appears that Solomon is contradicting himself, but if we dig in deeper we can obtain a clearer understanding; do not answer the fool in the same foolish manner (do not go down to their level) lest we be like him, but answer the fool's folly appropriately and wisely lest "he be wise in his own eyes." With the ease of response on social media, Christians can too easily be caught up in nonsensical arguments with people who are not looking for truth. Paul calls such "foolish and ignorant disputes" and commands Christians to avoid such (2 Timothy 2:23). Likewise, Paul commands that we are to "Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition" (Titus 3:10); this applies to Facebook as well as one-on-one contact. As Christians, we are to "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching" (2 Timothy 4:2), but that does not necessarily mean that all of these actions will take place on a single soul! Weigh the value (Matthew 7:6) of a discourse and if it is worthless, shift your attention to someone with whom you have an actual opportunity.       Other Articles A Godly Man in Wicked Surroundings Aid or Addition - What is the Difference? Passing Judgment on Others Present Day Church Problems (Part 1) Standing Alone     For Past Auburn Beacons go to: www.aubeacon.com/Bulletins.htm   Anyone can join the mailing list for the Auburn Beacon! Send your request to: larryrouse@aubeacon.com