Why Does the Bible Make Unbelievers Uncomfortable?
I once read about a man who was vehemently opposed to Christianity. After years of resistance, a simple, loving conversation with a believer opened his heart to the gospel. Today, he is a passionate follower of Christ, using his testimony to reach others who feel the same discomfort he once did.
Introduction:
Today, we explore a thought-provoking topic: "Why does the Bible make unbelievers uncomfortable?" This discomfort isn't a new phenomenon. Throughout history, the message of the Bible has often been met with resistance and unease. As we delve into this topic, we'll uncover three key reasons for this discomfort and understand how we, as believers, can respond.
Point 1: The Bible Confronts Sin
Hebrews 4:12 (NLT): "For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires."
The book of Hebrews was written to a group of Jewish Christians who were tempted to return to Judaism. This verse emphasizes the power and efficacy of God's word, likening it to a sharp sword that penetrates deep into a person's being.
The Greek word for "sword" here is "machaira", a short sword or dagger used in close combat. This illustrates how the Word of God penetrates and exposes our innermost thoughts and intentions. It reveals the truth about our sinful nature and confronts us with our need for repentance.
For unbelievers, this confrontation with sin can be unsettling. The Bible holds up a mirror to our lives, revealing the areas where we fall short of God's standards. As believers, we must approach others with grace and truth, helping them understand that while the Bible convicts, it also offers forgiveness and redemption through Christ.
Romans 3:23 (NLT): "For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard."
Paul's letter to the Romans addresses both Jewish and Gentile believers, emphasizing the universality of sin and the need for salvation through Christ.
The Greek word for "sinned" is "hamartano", meaning to miss the mark or fail. This reinforces the idea that all humanity is in need of God's grace due to our inherent sinfulness.
Understanding our universal need for salvation helps us empathize with unbelievers' discomfort. We can share the hope of the gospel, assuring them that God's grace is available to all who believe.
Point 2: The Bible Demands a Response
John 14:6 (NLT): "Jesus told him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.'"
In this passage, Jesus is speaking to His disciples, explaining His unique role in providing access to God. This statement is exclusive and definitive, leaving no room for alternative paths to salvation.
The Greek word for "way" is "hodos", meaning a road or path. Jesus' claim is not just a statement of direction but an assertion of His exclusive authority as the only means of reconciliation with God.
This exclusivity can make unbelievers uncomfortable because it challenges their beliefs and demands a decision. As believers, we must lovingly present the truth of Jesus' words, encouraging others to consider the claims of Christ and respond to His invitation.
Acts 4:12 (NLT): "There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved."
Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly declares the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus Christ to the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council.
The Greek word for "salvation" is "soteria", indicating deliverance and preservation. This reinforces the necessity of Jesus for eternal life.
By emphasizing the exclusivity of Christ, we highlight the urgency and importance of making a decision. Our role is to share this truth with compassion, understanding the weight it carries for those who hear it.
Point 3: The Bible Challenges Worldly Values
1 John 2:15-17 (NLT): "Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever."
John, the beloved disciple, writes to early Christians, warning them against the dangers of worldly desires and encouraging them to live according to God's will.
The Greek word for "world" is "kosmos", referring to the secular, materialistic system opposed to God. John's admonition challenges believers to reject these worldly values and align themselves with God's eternal purposes.
Unbelievers may feel uncomfortable because the Bible's teachings often contradict societal norms and values. As believers, we must model a counter-cultural lifestyle that prioritizes God's kingdom over worldly pursuits, inviting others to experience the fulfillment found in Christ.
Romans 12:2 (NLT): "Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect."
Paul's letter to the Romans encourages believers to live sacrificially and be transformed by the renewal of their minds.
The Greek word for "transform" is "metamorphoo", indicating a complete change in form. This underscores the radical transformation God desires in our lives.
By resisting conformity to worldly values and allowing God to renew our minds, we become living testimonies of His transformative power. Our lives can inspire unbelievers to seek the same transformation.
Conclusion and Call to Action:
Understanding why the Bible makes unbelievers uncomfortable equips us to engage with them thoughtfully and compassionately. Recognize the discomfort as an opportunity to share the transformative truth of the gospel.
Call to Action:
This week, I challenge you to engage in conversations with those who may feel uneasy about the Bible. Share your own experiences of how God's word has transformed your life. Invite them to explore the Scriptures with an open heart, assuring them of God's love and grace.
May we all be vessels of God's truth, bringing light and hope to those who need it most.
Amen.
