Tolerance Isn't Approval or Agreement - Luke 9:26

Tolerance is a word often used incorrectly. This 1-minute devotion defines the word and what it means to Christians.

Genuine tolerance means treating everyone with respect even when we disagree with their lifestyles and beliefs. 

However, some people use the word "tolerance" to mean approving all lifestyles and beliefs. 

Ironically, tolerance isn't necessary when we agree. 

More importantly, no one can approve all lifestyles and beliefs because most of them contradict, oppose, or exclude each other. 

Those who claim to celebrate diversity actually celebrate the diversity of people who agree with them and reject the diversity of those who disagree.

God expects us to show true tolerance, treating people respectfully. But He doesn't expect us to approve of their sins any more than he expects us to approve of our own.

This misuse of "tolerance" is often an attempt to shame or silence Christians which leads to the misuse of another word - "hate." No matter how kindly a Christian defends God's truth, they're called "haters" by those who claim to love diversity. 

But God has a different name for His defenders. He calls them faithful.  

See Matthew 5:10; Luke 9:26; 2 Timothy 4:2-3; James 1:12.
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Tolerance is a word often used incorrectly. This 1-minute devotion defines the word and what it means to Christians.

Tolerance is a word often used incorrectly. This 1-minute devotion defines the word and what it means to Christians.


       

Tolerance is a word often used incorrectly. This 1-minute devotion defines the word and what it means to Christians.

11 comments:

  1. Pam WilliamsNovember 28, 2016 at 6:18 AM

    Very well said, Gail. Thank you for sharing. You often put my inarticulate thoughts into straightforward, succinct words.

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousNovember 28, 2016 at 6:18 AM

    This. "Those who claim to celebrate diversity actually celebrate the diversity of people who agree with them and reject the diversity of those who disagree."

    ReplyDelete
  3. ChristineNovember 28, 2016 at 3:22 PM

    I have been thinking and looking for an idea or thought of how to express my feelings about this very subject.
    Our son and daughter-in-law are atheists (my heart is so sad!!) and our son has told me that Christians "hate" because they don't except everyone! There are other family members who have drawn the line with us. Especially, after this Presidential election.
    This post has made clear, with God's truth, just how I feel!

    Thank you! Thank you! Thank you Gail for sharing your heart with us.
    You don't know how you have touched me!

    Please keep on posting! I might not comment each day but I DO READ each post!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gail @ http://biblelovenotes.comNovember 28, 2016 at 5:43 PM

      Thanks, Christine. It blesses me to hear that this was helpful.
      I pray that your son and daughter-in-law may soon see the truth in all areas.
      God bless you!
      Gail

      Delete
  4. UnknownDecember 24, 2016 at 9:09 AM

    I try to remember that acceptance does not mean approval. If I cannot accept my brother, I will not have the opportunity to show him the Love of the Lord.

    ReplyDelete
  5. UnknownJune 7, 2020 at 10:47 AM

    :) still blessing us....thank you miss Gail

    ReplyDelete
  6. KarenaySeptember 10, 2020 at 12:49 PM

    Excellent explanation!! Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Black CoutureJune 20, 2024 at 3:30 AM

    Greetings from Swaziland (now Eswatini) Absolutely love reading your blog! Full of wisdom and helpful reminders

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gail @ http://biblelovenotes.comJune 21, 2024 at 12:32 AM

      Thank you so much for your encouragement. I love hearing from readers in other countries!

      Delete

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