One young man was shot dead by some miscreants. Some people believed he died as a martyr for his faith. Others disputed that claim, saying he died because of his opinions and comments that demean others. In the post-truth society, and in the Digital World, it is a maze, difficult to arrive at the truth. The evaluation test the Lord taught us is: By their fruits they shall be known. (Matthew 7:16)
Bold speaker of truth? It is claimed that he was a bold preacher of the gospel and proclaimer of truth. He took the initiative to go to youngsters, speak to them, argue with them, in spite of opposition, mocking, and harassment. Being courageous to speak the truth is not enough to consider a person a martyr. Does he demonstrate the values of the Kingdom of God in his life, speech, and action? There would be bold preachers and even miracle workers, but they would be rejected by the Lord as evil workers. (Matthew 7:21)
Bold statements of hate? Sadly, he was a bold preacher, but also spoke against people who belonged to other races and colours in a demeaning manner. When he considers people of other races to be inferior in intelligence, he is robbing the dignity of people created in the image of God. Some sinners should be stoned to death, was his view. He was like a Pharisee, who spoke right, but his deeds contradicted the love exemplified in the gospel.
Demeaning others: Whoever mocks the poor (marginalised, downtrodden, oppressed, neglected) insults the creator God. (Proverbs 17:5) A differently-abled person needs a stick to lean on. Affirmative action or reservation is like that stick. If a preacher calls for depriving such help, it is not a righteous but an envious act.
Sow and reap: Those who sow the wind will reap a whirlwind. (Hosea 8:7) In the world, where Christians are hated without cause, they will become victims of persecution, intolerance, and violence. Certainly, those who propagate violence become victims of violence.
Am I leading a fruitful life?