There are extremes in everything. Whether it is in nature, or in food seasoning, we are accustomed to the polarizing effect caused by things that are on the edge of the spectrum. The term "balance" has been raped and pillaged among folks today. However, there is merit in being so; as long as we have the right motives. Jesus was described as being balanced. Consider:
(Luke 2:52) "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man." (KJV)
Jesus, in the aforementioned verse, is said to have grown and matured in three ways. First, He grew mentally, then He grew physically. Lastly, He grew socially. I see balance here!
(John 1:14) "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." (KJV)
(John 1:17) "For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." (KJV)
Another classic passage we find concerning Jesus and balance is found in the Gospel of John chapter one. In this portion of Scripture we see that Jesus was said to be, "FULL OF GRACE AND TRUTH"! Verses 14 AND 17 should be taken in context together. Understand that TRUTH is constant, unchanging, and absolute. GRACE is getting what we do not deserve. Put it all together and we see that through Jesus Christ we get forgiveness and all that comes with it; even when the LAW demanded payment, judgment, and consequences. Yes, we are still chastened as believers, and we will reap what we so, but the grace of God enables us to do live according to the TRUTH!
Being a recipient of grace does not give us a license to do whatever we want. Neither should the fact that while we can know, practice, and share truth that we look down upon others and think them beneath us because they do not measure up. I like what Oswald Chambers said concerning our discerning eye upon others:
"Discernment is God's call to intercession, never to fault finding." - Oswald Chambers
As I look at the church today, I see numerous, well meaning people in the ditch on both sides of the road. In one ditch, they are ALL TRUTH and NO GRACE, and the other is filled with those who are LITTLE OR NO TRUTH and ALL GRACE! To be in either side is harmful and destructive. Jesus was full of both GRACE and TRUTH.
I have friends in both ditches. It is funny but so true that each ditch can justify it's existence. There is some good in each dear soul who makes their home in either causeway. One should remember, however positive the results, to be in either ditch, is actually a handicap. You severely limit your effectiveness in life, ministry, and personal growth.
I cope with this dilemma by simply befriending each side and just try to lead by example. There is always someone who will label me with either side, but I try and aim for the middle of the road. The center line, in this doctrinal example, is not the arena of compromise. The outside extremes will say so, but Jesus Christ shouts, "AMEN!"
Bottom line, we should be full of grace and truth! The more truth we get, the more understanding we should be with others. After all, we have not always been where we are now on issues. In reality, we should treat our fellow man as a physician would set a broken bone.What hurts is that seldom do people practice this. In know of many individuals who want lots of grace but share little in return. I know of folks who give great allowance to things, but will actually shun the truth!
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