Gospel wimps

I love how Jesus interacts with people. He handles each person in a unique and loving, yet often firm and challenging way.

Take the woman at the well. Jesus engages her. She thought this was inappropriate, for Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. But Jesus was never one to worry about what people thought was appropriate. (I could talk for hours on that topic alone...why is it we try to talk people into becoming Christians by only highlighting the good parts? Nevermind...)

Then he baffles her by offering a water that is better than the water she has. He curiosity is piqued. She wants to know more.

Then he informs her. The water he speaks of is eternal. What an awesome picture. Imagine, never thirsting again. I want that!

Now he confronts her. If you want this, go get your husband. What is that you say? You have no husband? What about that guy you are sleeping with?

Then he informs her again. True worshippers must worship in spirit and truth.

What? No slide shows? No powerpoints? No invitiation to just give him her life? No altar call? No drama? Just confrontation and information? Just truth and authority? That would never work today...

I fear that we have become a generation of Gospel wimps, believing that we must "sell" Jesus to the masses, so we package him up in the prettiest paper with a nice shiny bow on top. Give your life to Jesus and all will be well, you will be on the track to paradise.

FINE PRINT: Giving your life to Jesus might require you to surrender all. Just shaking the pastors hand and getting baptized in no guarentee of salvation. God is the final judge in all matters eternal, and the decision of the judge is final. If you are not satisfied with his judgment, no refund of offerings will be given, and no compensation for time spent volunteering. The invitation is not intended to be a complete explanation of what salvation entails. For further instructions regarding all things regarding God and salvation, read the Bible. Batteries not included.