A minister, about to write an article criticizing a fellow minister for his lack of orthodoxy, wrote to John Newton of his intention. Newton replied as follows.
This 4-page letter from John Newton (1725-1807) on Godly Disputation, is well worth the read. What with most of us publishing opinions, objections, rants, praises, etc. on a near daily basis in the blogosphere, I think each of us would do well to take Mr. Newton’s advice into serious consideration. I especially, being of a rather contentious spirit by nature, need this sort of thing applied on a very regular basis; for “lo, there be giants in the land.”
If we speak in love without truth, we may destroy our opponent rather than gain him; but if we speak the truth without love, we may destroy ourselves as well as him. We must, therefore, “speak the truth in love,” as the Lord has directed us, if we are to be of any profit to his people.
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Aron,
Thank you.
Correction from a loving Father. I am grateful. Now to put this into the heart so that it may come out of the mouth (and pen).
I really appreciate your wisdom and sharing your hunger for the truth.
DH3