The news: A Christianity Today essay draws from Matthew 12 — where Jesus confronts the Pharisees after they publicly accuse him of casting out demons by Satan's power — to argue that niceness is not a biblical command. The piece explores how the most unsettling words in Scripture about human speech come in the middle of a conflict, not a quiet moment.
Why it matters for church leaders: Indian pastors often operate in high-pressure social contexts where keeping the peace feels like a spiritual virtue. But this reflection is a timely challenge — avoiding hard conversations in your congregation or leadership team is not the same as being Christlike. Courageous, honest speech is part of shepherding well.
The takeaway: Identify one difficult conversation you have been postponing in your church or leadership team, and commit to having it this week with grace and truth.
Source: Christianity Today
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