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 The
musical “Oklahoma” has a character. Judd, who is eulogized
in a mock funeral as one who was kind and gentle. and loved the
whole human race; “Only they never knowed it — he never let
on,”
Poor
Judd is not dead — he isn’t even sick. There are thousands
of his kind in the church. They love all people, and long to see
the whole world converted — only the world never discovers
this burning desire. They never “let on,” even to a hair
dresser.
They
love the truth, according to public prayers and songs. But if
they attend Bible study at all, it is to give their opinion or
experience, not to study the text. If a passage seems to
run counter to their traditional concepts. they ignore it or “explain
it away.”
They
believe in salvation by grace — and if you push them hard
enough they will admit it. They know that one may fall from
grace — i.e.. some one other than themselves. If they really
believe that the Lord will reveal and judge the secrets of their
lives and thoughts, “they never let on.” You would never
guess it.
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They
“love the brotherhood” if not the brethren. They long for
unity of all saints, and would do almost anything to see all
issues properly settled — except meeting with those with whom
they differ for an honorable and scriptural discussion of the
issues which divide them.
This
is not intended as a blanket indictment of all church members,
for I know the salt of the earth is at work. Christians are
concerned, and endeavor to teach their neighbors. Gospel
preachers are demonstrating by sacrificial efforts, their love
for souls. There are those who care more for peace with God,
than for approval of “the party”.
But
this is a reminder that such love, concern, and endeavor are not
“done in a corner.” If people about you have never suspected
that you are a Christian, there’s a good chance that you have
never “let on” with a fair sample of Christian living. Do
not ask me to preach your funeral.
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