I guess on the note of tolerance and the true spirit of tolerating someone you feel is intolerable, I'll throw this at you. I’ve heard many occasions where people preach against a particular lifestyle or way of living and are labeled intolerant. Thus, are then hated for their stance and not tolerated for the particular view they hold. If someone finds something you’re doing immorally wrong and speaks up out of love for you, who’s fault is it that a person takes offense. Where do you draw the line on tolerating another’s actions? If I come to a person and tell them they have broken Gods laws (Exodus 20) and must face justice for their crimes is that being intolerant? We have all sinned and fall short of his glory - and the wages of sin are death. Examples are: have you ever told a lie, have you ever stole something, have you ever used Gods name in vain, have you ever committed adultery (just looking with lust at someone makes you just as guilty as doing the actual act (Matthew 5:27), have you ever murdered someone (just being angry in your heart without just cause makes you guilty Matthew 5:38). I know we have broken some or all these laws and this is only the first half. So, yes we are all guilty and we must pay with our souls in hell for eternity. Ok, let’s say I believe this with ever bit of my being, you know that everyone is going to hell (I do). But let’s also say that I know a way out, I know someone who will take our punishment and pay for our crimes against God (Jesus Christ. Would you tolerate me if I didn’t tell you? I couldn’t tolerate myself if I kept silent. It would be like having a cure for cancer and not giving it to dying cancer patients in need-I couldn’t tolerate that. Could you? Yes, I know someone that will take your punishment and give you everlasting Life in heaven. His name is Jesus Christ and he took your punishment 2000 years ago on a cross with his blood. I hope you put your faith in him for the work he performed on the cross. Acknowledge your guilt and lawbreaking and turn from it. It’s called repentance a true brokenness of the heart because of our offenses towards a holy God and recognizing the just punishment we deserve for those offenses. Turn from your sinful ways and to the living God. Now I could not tolerate myself if I didn’t share that with the people I love. Heck, you don’t have to agree with me, you can think I’m crazy, ignorant, stupid, weak minded relying on a crutch or just plan delusional. That’s ok, I can tolerate that.
