It seems a
factor of our human makeup, that when we are regularly exposed to something or
someone, we can take that person or situation for granted. In this sense then,
familiarity breeds contempt! Being close and well acquainted, should naturally
amount to a better quality relationship, and it usually does, provided we
maintain an appropriate respect and appreciation for those to whom we are close.
Jesus found there was less faith, trust and belief in Him, among those who
‘knew Him’, that is - had grown with and around Him, prior to the commencement
of His earthly ministry. It has been observed, that often it is most difficult
to reach with the gospel, those who knew us as we grew up. Unsaved family
members or relations, old friends or business associates, can, at times, be the
most difficult people for us to convince of the truth we have found in Jesus. While
it is true that intimacy can help develop trust and therefore strengthen our
opportunities to reach the hearts of those we know, it is also a fact that
those closest to us, will in some cases, feel justified in rebutting or casually
brushing us off. Closeness can thus become a resistance and an obstacle to the
message of salvation we may be presenting, especially in situations where due
to familiarity, regard and politeness are lost. Perhaps it is in the frame of
mind of the individuals concerned, who instead of reasoning that a person they
‘know’ should be trusted more in what they say, they choose rather to mock,
belittle and resist. They fail to see or maybe insist on ignoring, the reality
of the work God has conducted in the lives of the people they are familiar with.
Familiarity abused, can therefore play a part in robbing some, of their
opportunities to receive the gospel and be saved. There is another aspect of
familiarity which is also very damaging and can get by us un-noticed. We should
be very careful to never take for granted the blessing and privilege of the
anointed ministry of the Word of God, which we receive faithfully every week. Although
we believe and attend church, because we ‘know’, are close to or familiar with
the minister and their work for God, it can become easy to shrug off and not
take notice of what we hear. A thankful heart and respectful appreciation for
what God brings to us through the ministry in our church pulpit, and for the
privilege of belonging to God’s family, will go a long way to help maintain a
close, family-like, yet healthy relationship with the Lord, and our brethren.
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