When Christian Words Mask Un-Christlike Ways
Why discernment is more than spiritual suspicion—it’s faithful resistance rooted in Jesus.
A friend once said, “It sounded right—but something in my gut told me it wasn’t Jesus.”
They were talking about a pastor’s fiery sermon. It had Scripture, conviction, bold claims—but underneath it all was an urgency to dominate, to "take back the nation," and to crush anyone who disagreed.
It’s hard to explain this kind of spiritual dissonance. You hear Jesus’ name, but the message feels angry. Fear-based. Power-hungry.
And something deep inside whispers: “This isn’t what He meant.”
📖 Scripture
James 3:17 (NLT):
"But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace-loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere."
🧠 Core Reflection
Discernment is one of the most needed spiritual gifts of our time—but it’s not about paranoia or suspicion. It’s about being rooted deeply enough in the heart of Jesus that you can recognize when something has His name but not His Spirit.
James tells us what heaven’s wisdom looks like—and none of it is domineering. It’s not self-important, controlling, or harsh. It doesn’t manipulate people or stir up fear. It’s gentle, peace-loving, willing to yield. That last part alone should make us pause.
The tragedy of our age is that many believers are drawn to voices that are strong, certain, and loud… even when they don’t sound anything like Christ. Just because someone quotes the Bible doesn’t mean they reflect the Kingdom. And just because something calls itself Christian doesn’t mean it’s following Jesus.
❤️ Real-Life Application
This message touches something deep for people who have felt spiritually gaslit—told they’re unfaithful or unpatriotic for asking questions. It connects with those who are healing from church trauma, with those who love Jesus but feel like much of what’s done in His name today doesn’t look like Him.
It stirs up fear: Am I being deceived? Am I the problem for feeling off?
It stirs up hope too: Maybe I’m not crazy. Maybe this discomfort is the Spirit nudging me toward what’s true.
✋🏽 Practical Action Step
Today, when you hear a message that uses God's name—pause.
Ask: “Does this look like Jesus?”
Does it sound like the Sermon on the Mount?
Is it full of mercy? Is it peace-loving?
Or does it just want power, control, or to win a culture war?
Walk away from anything that hijacks faith for domination. That’s not the Kingdom. That’s not your King.
🙏🏽 Benediction
May you have the courage to question what doesn’t align with Christ.
May your spirit be anchored in mercy, not fear.
And may the Jesus who rides donkeys—not warhorses—guide your steps today.
Grace and Peace,
Geraldo
☕ Gentle Nudge
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