2003-10-03 - Something to Say

1 Tim 4:12 Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. (NAS)

The author C. S. Lewis was once taken to task by the author J. R. R. Tolkien. The author of the Lord of the Rings was upset because Lewis was neither ordained or a theologian. "You have no business writing books.", Tolkien told Lewis. While I very much enjoy Mr. Tolkien's writing I have to disagree with him on this point.

C. S. Lewis replied, "I wish I didn't have to, but until theologians and ordained clergy begin to communicate with ordinary people in the vernacular, in a way that they can understand, I am going to have to do this kind of thing." The two were contemporaries and powerful defenders of the faith.

Lewis refused to be silenced by the rebuke of Tolkien. In very similar case Paul encouraged Timothy to not be intimidated simply because he was young. Lewis stepped into the role of communicator to the masses with several superior books that have become standards of Christianity. Timothy had an equally important mantle placed upon his shoulders. He had to be a leader and teacher of the community at Ephesus to respected people in the city. This is not always a simple task when people of reputation or influence may try to impose themselves. There is often resistance to even simple spiritual truth.

Be sure of your leading and be certain that what you are communicating is in line with the scriptures. God will not contradict Himself. If God is leading you to speak, or write or whatever, do it. Lewis stood fast in his call to author his books in the face of criticism. He did it firmly with humility. He considered himself as "a layman who knew very little". In the end he won over Tolkien and fulfilled his calling to write and connect with the masses powerful truths of the faith in common, understandable terms.

2 Tim 4:2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. (NAS)

Grace & Peace,
Mike

mhoskins@cfdevotionals.org
http://www.cfdevotionals.org