More Knowledge Than You Might Think

Earlier today I called a newspaper office to let them know I was going to be away for a few  days and request that they hold our newspapers until we return. My call was transferred to the customer service department and I was greeted by a very pleasant voice. The lady told me that it would be no problem and that they could take care of it. To that point I had not even told her my name, let alone my address. She then proceeded to state my address for confirmation. As I  began  to  reply, it  suddenly  occurred to me that she knew my  address without me even giving it to her. I quickly asked if they had “Caller ID” and she replied that they did.

Modern technology aside, isn’t it interesting how people sometimes know more about us than we would have thought? They may have observed  our  behavior from a distance without us ever knowing. Their knowledge may have come accidentally or it may have been gained because of envy or admiration.

God is very aware that Christians are going to be observed by people of the world. He is aware of the great potential for good that knowledge can do. Thus, the Bible  tells us that we are lights in the world (Matthew 5:14-16;  Philippians 2:16). When people who are not our friends see us behave in a manner consistent with what they hear us profess, God is glorified (Matthew 5:16) and our faith is verified (James 2:18). On the other hand, when inconsistent behavior is exhibited, the “worthy name” is blasphemed (James 2:7, KJV).

It is no wonder that God provided us with so much material in the New Testament regarding our conduct. Of the twenty-seven books, twenty-one are epistles which were written to deal with the everyday behavioral situations that confront Christians. In at least three of the letters (Romans, Ephesians, and Hebrews), there is a very clear pattern of doctrinal material followed by a discussion of practical application of the principles previously set forth.

We are walking, talking servants of God. People should be able to see Christ living in us. There is no reason for them not to have some knowledge of us  before we know them well. It is also reasonable that they may have certain  expectations of us because we are Christians.  Rather  than resenting  those expectations, let us take up the challenge to be God’s people at all times. “Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity.” (NASB) 

  —Lance Cordle