Preach the Gospel & Francis of Assisi
by Darren Moore
Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words… they are necessary!
There is a famous quote from Francis of Assisi: “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words when necessary”. Except it almost certainly is not from Francis, who seemed to rate the normal mode of preaching, see here (and follow the links there). Nonetheless, that quote or a sentiment that goes along with it, is often pulled out to justify not vocalising the gospel.
Leaving aside the rather obvious self-refuting nature of the statement (if words are only needed in the most necessary of situations, why are words used to convey this dictum?!), it is still true to say that our whole life needs to be consistent with our words if we are to avoid the charge, “hypocrite”. It is true we can be left with only our actions to speak (e.g. 1 Peter 3:1). But the gospel by definition is a verbal proclamation. It is an announcement.
Thus far, not especially controversial. My thought is simply, “really?” When people say, “they will look at my good life and that will be gospel enough”. Really??! I know that people looking at me will not work it all out. (How people would conclude the cross/atonement, resurrection/justification from even the best of my actions is not totally clear). That some of the best conversations I have had have not been because I am so good, but trying to put right some gaff and sharing how the gospel motivates me to try to put things right.
“They will look at my good life and that will be gospel enough.” That is a pretty bold claim. Do they really think they are pulling it off?
