Jerk...

And Jesus opened His mouth and spoke thusly with them: “Be right, but don’t be a jerk about it.” OK, as my dad would say “that’s a stretch”. Here’s the actual quote: “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.” (Matthew 23:23). Paul said it this way: “...speaking the truth in love...” (Ephesians 4:15).

This verse is not as some suggest a verse that in any way teaches us to ignore obeying or doing what is right but to not forget the way we talk to and deal with our attitudes. So, do right - speak truth - but don’t be a jerk about it!

I’ve dealt with my share of jerks. Individuals who go behind my back, over my head, and around things that are mine to have a say as how they are done to undermine anything I do.

There is such a thing as a jerk. And, I sometimes am one (didn’t see that coming did you?).

Yes, the sad truth is, I’ve been a jerk in being right a few times: Talking about moral issues as if I am in some way superior. Using the greek as if knowing it makes me know more enlightened. Holding a position that I admit to be a matter of opinion as if it was a matter of right or wrong. If I’ve ever treated you that way, I am deeply sorry. If I’ve come across that is certainly not who I want to be. And just cause someone treats me as a jerk or I perceive that they have, does not give me license to be a jerk toward them or anyone else. You can be kind without compromising. You can stand for your beliefs without calling another stupid. Not everyone who sees things differently than you do is has to be your enemy.

And, while Jesus didn’t say it in our language - He did warn those who would claim Him not to be jerks.