Dear Saint:
Does anyone have any advice on how to maintain a civil and polite relationship with these people?
Paul said, "in so far as it depends on you, be on good terms with all men", implying that being on good terms depends in part on us in that we have a responsiblity to be kind, civil, courteous and sensitive, but at the same time, to be honest and to speak the truth in love, especially to those who claim to be brethren, but also to all men. As such, it would seem that we will not always be liked or received well, even if we do this perfectly. Christ of course did it perfectly and was crucified.
Jay Adams has some sound advice on how to handle some of these situations and I believe that he helps dispell some of the popular "myths" of our culture about speaking truthfully about the Christian faith to others, family and otherwise.
In Him,
Gerry
