The Gospel Might Be Offensive, But We Needn’t Be
One of the most distinguishing factors of a Christian is what makes an effective leader—deep-rootedness that produces the fragrant fruit of the Spirit, budding in season and out. This fruit often results in favor with man. Gasp.
As one who leads, I know there will be times when I must deliver a tough pill to swallow. Yet, while the message I carry might be offensive, the manner in which I carry it should always be sweet like honey—appealing, attractive, and full of grace.
This is not something you can manufacture. It comes only from the daily wrestling and walking with the Lord. It comes only from being submitted to the pressing so that the sweet fragrance of oil can come through your manner of life.
Let’s Take a Look at Some Scriptures
Luke 2:52 tells us that as Jesus grew up, He increased in favor with God and man. Later, in Acts, as the early church was growing, we see the disciples also experiencing favor with people (Acts 2:46-47).
Proverbs 3:3-4 says, “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.”
Want an example from the Old Testament? Look at Samuel.
1 Samuel 2:26 says that as Samuel grew, he found favor with the Lord and with man. How? By walking in obedience to God. Later, in 2 Samuel, we see this pattern in David’s life.
The fruit of David walking with God led him to have overwhelming compassion for others. In 2 Samuel 9:6-7, David asks, “Is there anyone I can show kindness to? On behalf of Jonathan, I will come and show you kindness, and you will eat bread continually.” David was looking for someone to bless. This is a picture of what Jesus does! This is the essence of leadership—compassionate, servant-hearted, and deeply rooted in love. And this kind of leadership, though solely in Christ, often bears the fruit of favor with others.
Are You Attractive?
Romans 14:18 says, “Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.”
As you speak and lead, are others drawn to the light and Spirit of God in you? Or are they repulsed and repelled? Do they savor your saltiness, or do they spit you out like lukewarm water?
We should never do things for the approval or applause of man, but as we grow in the likeness of Christ, we will also grow in an uncanny favor with others.
Jesus was able to take the most offensive message—“Come, follow me and take up your cross unto death”—and transform millions of lives. Why? Because the words He spoke and the invitation He presented led to flourishing, not burden. Jesus could offer this weighty invitation because He was a friend.
Faithful Are the Wounds of a Friend
“Faithful are the wounds of a friend…” (Proverbs 27:6).
What is a friend? One who lays down his life for another. A true friend’s rebuke or hard words can be trusted because their character is trustworthy. When you present something hard to someone, they should be able to trust that it’s not about your ego but about their good. They should know that if the time came, you’d follow in the path of Jesus and lay down your life for them.
James 5:20 says, “Let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.” How?
By restoring in a spirit of gentleness (Galatians 6:1). By preaching the word; being ready in season and out; reproving, rebuking, and exhorting with complete patience and teaching (2 Timothy 4:2).
A Call to Lead with Grace
We live in a world that is quick to cancel, condemn, and cut off. But the way of Jesus is different. His truth is sharp, yet His love is soft. His words may cut, but His arms remain open. This is the kind of leadership we are called to—a leadership that embodies both truth and grace, that calls people higher while drawing them in closer.
So, what kind of leader are you? Do your words wound in a way that heals, or do they leave scars that never fade? Are you a voice that people trust, or one they avoid? Are you living a life so deeply rooted in Christ that your presence itself is an invitation to know Him?
If you’re longing for a space to cultivate this kind of leadership, one that is rooted in deep faith and Spirit-led wisdom, I’d love to walk with you in that journey. Check out Ordinary Faith, where we explore how to live and lead from a place of rest and intimacy with Jesus. Or, if you’re looking for deeper one-on-one spiritual companionship, consider spiritual direction with me. Let’s press in together—so that the gospel remains a light, and we, its bearers, remain winsome in the world.
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