The Stronghold of Bad Examples

Dealing with strongholds 

“Your rulers are rebels, partners with thieves; they all love bribes and chase after gifts. They do not defend the cause of the fatherless; the widow’s case does not come before them.” (Isa. 1:23)

They’re everywhere!

 Another stronghold and reason often given for resistance to Christ has to do with the bad examples they’ve been exposed to. Unfortunately, the entertainment industry, including movies and television shows, has often portrayed Christians as weak, hypocritical, and even corrupt—the very opposite of what they are. as well as the media using bad examples for news stories, such as fallen pastors and greedy televangelists. And then there are the actual bad experiences some have had with church attendance and poorly behaving religious people, which have left them cold.

What to do

A few years ago, I spoke with a woman about Jesus, and it just made her furious. She angrily told me about several people she had known who were terrible people, even though they claimed to be Christians. And yes, all her examples were very bad. She said she did not want to hear anything more about God! Shortly after that, her husband became a believer, and his life was dramatically changed from one of addiction and abuse to one of love and kindness. Several years later, he passed away, and I got a phone call from her. She said she couldn’t deny the change that had happened to her husband’s life, and she wanted that, too. She invited me over to her house and asked me to explain how she could receive Jesus. After hearing the gospel, she, too, received Christ as her Savior.

What made the difference in her attitude?

It was the very positive example that was more persuasive than the negative ones—the changed life of her husband lived out before her!

Be a good example

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matt. 5.16)

“Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity,” (Titus 2:7 ESV)

“Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.” (Phil. 3:17 ESV)