And Paul went in, as was his custom, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, (‭Acts‬ ‭17‬:‭2‬ ESV)

Unreasonable people weary me. Unreasonable Christians concern me.

Christianity is not merely a “feeling” religion, it is a dynamic relationship that engages my mind and will, as much as my emotions.

Although my faith in Christ is a spiritual reality, its implications and applications touch spirit, soul, and body.

Paul came to the city of Thessalonica and reasoned with the people regarding Jesus Christ. His approach, although candid, was always courteous.

Have you ever had someone tell you correct information, but they did it with a snide attitude? It makes you want to dismiss their information, altogether – despite its accuracy.

I wonder how many people have been offended by the messengers of Christ, and have, as a result, refused the message itself.

A tremendous resource to me is a Christian apologist by the name of Ravi Zacharias. His ministry (RZIM.org) exists to “help the thinker believe, and to help the believer think.” What a brilliant concept!

As believers, we should be able to reasonably articulate and defend the basics of our beliefs. Although we may not consider ourselves theologians, the world is depending on us to know and share the truth.

What are the characteristics of a reasonable believer?
1. A reasonable believer thinks his way through his beliefs, not merely feeling his way through them.
2. A reasonable believer respects the people who disagree with her, and challenges their positions without condescending their person.
3. A reasonable believer is willing to be proven wrong. The quest is for truth, not winning an argument.
4. A reasonable person knows what he knows and is aware that he doesn’t know what he doesn’t know. Humility is a mark of a reasonable believer.
5. A reasonable believer is submitted to the absolute truth of God’s Word, not merely to a doctrine, tradition, or preference.

Father,
Help me to be a respected, reasonable man, so that your truth can be revealed to me, and through me.
In Jesus’ name, amen.