“Conduct
yourself with wisdom in your interactions with outsiders (non-believers), make
the most of each opportunity [treating it as something precious]. Let your
speech at all times be gracious and pleasant, seasoned with salt, so that you
will know how to answer each one [who questions you].” Colossians 4:5-6 Amplified Bible
The church in Colossae had a problem that
Paul is attempting to deal with in his letter to them. Some of the members of
the church were trying to inject elements of paganism and secular thought into
Christian doctrine. Paul’s letter was written in such a way as to show its
readers that everything they need is in Christ and him alone.
The above verses speak directly to our
dealings with non-believers. Our conversations with them should never be laced
with pride or arrogance, as we must always remember from whence we came. We
need to be polite and courteous to all who would question our faith; even those
who would be antagonistic towards us.
When Paul uses the phrase “seasoned with
salt”, what does he mean? Just as salt makes food “wholesome and palatable”*,
so it should make our conversation “useful, agreeable and (generally)
beneficial.”* Getting into an argument with someone outside the faith does
little good. Agreeing to disagree may be the right road to take in such a case.
When speaking with non-believers we should always remember how God introduced
himself to us and let that guide us along with the Holy Spirit. We should also
remember that we just might be the only Bible some people will ever read. Let
our light so shine that others may be drawn to it and receive redemption. Until
next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!
Resources: The Life Application Study Bible;
Barnes Notes on the Bible.
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