Principles for Life in the Kingdom of GodSample

RESPONSIBLE TO OUR FELLOW HUMAN BEINGS

MAIN IDEAS

• The citizens of the KINGDOM OF GOD relate to each other carefully, so as not to malign anyone. To lead those around you into sin is as wrong as you sinning directly. This principle is highlighted by JESUS, who says that a man who has the evil practice of leading his fellow men into sin does not deserve to live.

• When a person has been disparaged by his fellow man, he must take the initiative to solve the problem by forgiving. Forgiveness is mandatory for any citizen of the KINGDOM OF GOD.

• Living by faith gives us grace and supernatural resources to establish godly relationships with our fellow human beings.

Forgiveness is an absolute necessity, by which the community of the KINGDOM OF GOD is sustained in its earthly dimension. In their relationships, the sons of the Kingdom must be very careful not to cause in any way the fall, the stumble, or the offense of any brother. On the other hand, if someone has been offended, they should not remain in a state of growing bitterness but should seek restoration through forgiveness.
Unfortunately, we all have known Christians who have no problem provoking weaker Christians into sins such as gossip, anger, quarrelling, and discontent, after which they withdraw as though they had no responsibility to those who fell into sin because of their instigation. JESUS is firm in His teaching, telling us that we must do everything within our power not to obstruct or offend anyone. In the same context, JESUS teaches His followers that they should not remain under conviction when someone brings any offense upon them. If we are angry with someone who has deeply hurt us and who may not even realize they did, it is important to take initiative, to approach the person, and to find the way to forgive, even when the offense may repeat. The disciples understand that avoiding offending anyone and overcoming any offense by forgiving the offender is a challenge of faith.
We may not find a way of behaving and interacting with our peers that doesn’t offend, or we may find it tough to seek the path of forgiveness when we are angered by someone. But we must be confident that the HOLY SPIRIT can lead us to succeed when we come to Him in prayer with this problem, in honesty, self-denial, and humility.