RIGHT IS WHAT?

READING: John 1:6-13

Verse 12: “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:”

It seems to be basic to human nature that we protect and defend our rights. Added to that natural inclination is the American emphasis on freedom and rights. Taken together, we frequently see these  two factors produce intense reactions when there is the belief that rights are threatened. In 1 Corinthians 6:7, Paul criticized the Corinthians for using civil courts instead of resolving disputes within the church. He said they should prefer to accept mistreatment and even consent to being cheated rather than to seek secular judgments. What a blow to their rights! In this scripture, the Bible demonstrates that there are standards of behavior which are more important than our personal rights. We can reach these higher standards because of a God-given right which frees us from defending our  personal rights. It also gives us victory in each and every situation and circumstance. This powerful God-given right is just as expressed above in John 1:12. This gift from the Lord, the right to be His children, is the right by which all our needs are met. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. Are there considerations you hold higher than your personal rights? If so, what are they?

2. Are our churches becoming closer or more distant as sources of resolution for disputes?