Christians do not always say what they mean. The following statements are often heard around the church. Notice the true translation of each pious phrase:
- “It needs to be done” means, “I am not going to do anything about it, but the church ought to.”
- “I have heard some criticism” means, “I am against it, but I do not want to stand by myself.”
- “The whole church is upset” usually means, “Two or three loudmouths have said something against it.”
- “It might bring criticism” means, “I know it should be done, but it takes too much effort for me to get involved.”
- “If memory serves me right” really means, “I am going to say something that I am not sure is true or false, but if somebody discovers I am wrong, then I can always blame my memory.”
- “I will be there if I am not providentially hindered” means, “If I am not there, you can blame it on God.”
- “I will come every time I can” means, “If I do not have something better to do, I will be there.”
- “I will not promise but I will do my best.” means, “Do not expect much out of me.”
How many times have you caught yourself using these excuses? One must remember that members of the church can read between the lines!
Kyle Campbell