In ancient Greece, it was common for philosophers to go to the marketplace to introduce new ideas. This is where the teachings of Aristotle, Plato and Socrates were first embraced and passed down from one generation to the next, impacting and influencing Western culture since its inception. While reason can be perverted by using a false narrative to justify wrong actions, reason must contain a cognitive understanding where individuals form judgments based upon a process of logic.
Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips, Proverbs 14:7.
According to King Solomon, renown for his wise rulings, there are certain people who possess a mind of their own. Thus, whether you are arguing, debating or trying to introduce a more efficient way of doing things, trying to convince a fool is a waste of time. You will have a better chance of molding and shaping a child than change the mind of a stubborn adult. Therefore, the next time you find yourself in a discussion on morals going no where, remember this: you can’t reason with liars.
For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: to an unknown god. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you, Acts 17:23.
The apostle Paul provides a blueprint for engaging a non-Christian culture. Calling people liars won’t win over an audience or keep minds open to what you have to say. Rather, the best place to start is searching for traces within society that point to an unknown God. Paul uses an inscription on an idol and later quotes a Greek poet. These 2 pieces of information break down previous stereotypes held without knowing Paul and provided an open door where he was later asked to return to share more about this invisible God. Whether you’re talking to a fool, liar or stiff necked individual, bridge these gaps by speaking the truth in love.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 