Some people who claim to be Christians are quite negative and excessively critical, therefore giving Christians a bad name among non-believers. World-renowned evangelist Billy Graham says true believers should not act that way because Jesus Christ exemplifies love and positivity.
"Instead of putting people down, [Jesus] sought to win them over by His love and compassion. On one occasion, the Bible says, 'The large crowd listened to Him with delight' (Mark 12:37)," Graham writes in his column for The Kansas City Star.
But Jesus' overflowing kindness does not mean that He does not confront wrongdoings. In fact, Graham says Jesus would not hesitate to rebuke those who are doing wrong. Some of His strongest words were directed at those who "distorted" God's Word for the benefit of their own powers and position.
"But even then, His message was one of forgiveness and hope, if they would only repent and open their hearts to Him. Remember: Christ came not only to take us to heaven someday, but to change our hearts and fill us with His love," says Graham.
The evangelist says it is impossible for people to be proud, self-righteous, negative or critical when they are filled with Jesus' love. It also does not make sense for Christians to despise those people Jesus came to save when they have accepted Him into their lives.
Graham is praying that Christians who are filled with hatred and negativity would really learn what it is like to "walk in love" and embrace the teachings of God. He then shares the Bible verse Ephesians 5:2: "Walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."
