Witnesses Matter
The Wisdom of Several Accounts
Our thoughts,
God was very wise to set up a system of witnesses. Without it, Diotrephes would be getting away with it (3rd Jn.). So would Alexander the coppersmith (2 Tim. 4:14-15) and all other malicious delinquents exposed through the Holy Text.
Without witnesses, it remains an uncertain judgment of “he says she says.” But with witnesses, one can obtain a better measure of judgment, discerning who is lying and who is telling the truth. With witnesses and evidence, we can have greater insight into one’s behaviour and practices. When over 50 witnesses come forward from different locations and timelines, unassociated with one another, it makes for a compelling testimony. In other words, evil may convince the masses of its lies until the victims accumulate and take courage to speak out. And though devils will devour loyalists to bear falsehood, it falls to the wayside upon the testimony of genuine accounts.
Sphepperds, if the “preacher and wife” you are seeking to work with has devastated (i.e., caused “great destruction or damage”) to every single church they previously infiltrated, including numerous personal relationships, it would be wise and prudent to step away and avoid at all costs, before you become the next victims of unrighteous division. Too many wolves in sheep’s clothing have since ravaged local bodies that once belonged to Christ. Too many ignorant men have been cowardly and void of discernment to recognize the threat. Pharisees know how to portray themselves as righteous and fruitful, but are far from it (Mt. 23).
Jesus prayed for unity among His people (Jn. 17:20-23). If brethren truly love one another, there won’t be any need for problems in the local assembly. But when pride and greed creep in? Chaos and disorder in the form of strict control take preeminence.
Think, pure charity is: welcoming, approachable, compassionate, caring, forgiving, tender, courageous, healthy, and fruitful, agreeable to all decency in Christ. Pure sacrifice is an outward practice stemming from an inward humility. Can you honestly observe brother (or sister) “so and so” and tell yourself, this man is kind? A man who has built us up, encouraged us, and edified us? A man who not only stands for the truth but has learned to utilize it with both love of reality itself and love of his fellow brother? Has he been peaceful in bringing families together, marriages, friendships, and churches? Has he been there for us when we struggled? Has he given his life for the greater good of the Kingdom? Does he help create an atmosphere of free will? Can you honestly look at the man and his behaviour and admire his passion for the church? Is he benevolent? Think. It will reveal what is in your heart.
The truth has nothing to fear, my dear brethren. God is with the faithful. And His Majesty will righteously judge the abusers. Pray for wisdom, and understand that God is the worker. We are permitted to serve, and what a blessing that is. There is no greater joy than to minister, giving of self for the well-being of others.
So, remain tranquil. God was wise to set up a system of witnesses. Through His Majesty’s Testament
Learn to discern.
Your servant,
SM