February 15, 2026
— Francis Schaeffer · Source: The God Who Is There (London: Hodder & Stoughton / Chicago: Inter-Varsity Press, 1968), Section IV "Speaking Historic Christianity into the Twentieth-Century Climate," ch. 1 "Finding the Point of Tension"
1 Corinthians 8:1 As for things sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. But knowledge puffs up a person, while love edifies.
We can easily accumulate a perfect set of "apology logic" or "gospel answers" and arm ourselves with them. However, knowledge divorced from empathy for others easily degenerates into a sense of spiritual superiority, building high walls rather than bridges. Correct viewpoints, without the wrapping of love, often become rigid dogmas, intimidating and frightening. True "edification" is not about conquering others with logic, but about bending down to be a patient listener in the struggle of their souls. Only when others feel respected and understood can our truthful knowledge transform into sweet rain, nourishing their thirsty hearts. What we should strive for is not to win an argument, but to win a soul.
Merciful Heavenly Father, I thank You for giving me the knowledge of truth to enlighten my life, but I ask even more that You grant me the love of Christ to restrain my speech. Lord, take away the arrogance of "knowing the answer" from my heart. Grant me a keen and gentle heart, so that I may understand the sighs behind my family's words and perceive the gaps in their worldview. May my knowledge not be an obstacle preventing them from witnessing to You, but rather an instrument to serve them. I ask the Holy Spirit to work in that family's hearts, so that they may feel not only objective theories, but also the great love of the Lord Jesus who condescends upon the humble. May every word I speak, built on the foundation of love, bring them true life building and hope. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.