Dear Editor,
It was encouraging to read about Sarah Mbuyi (‘Christian wins discrimination case’, July en) winning her case at an employment tribunal after being sacked for expressing her beliefs about homosexuality to a colleague who had approached her on the subject. Sarah acted wisely in this increasingly difficult area for believers and you cited Matthew 10.16 – to be both gentle as a dove, but wise as a serpent. Jesus himself was, of course, confronted by those who wanted to trap him in his words. After reading your article I was reminded of Matthew 21.23-27.
When asked: ‘By what authority are you doing these things?’ Jesus turned the tables by asking: ‘John’s baptism – where did it come from? Was it from heaven, or from men?’ His opponents were unwilling to answer, so Jesus refused to answer their question.
I believe we can apply this to our politically-correct culture. If an unbelieving colleague asks our views on homosexuality, or some other controversial issue, a useful initial response could be along the following lines: ‘Before I answer that, can I ask if you believe in freedom of speech? Do you agree that everyone should be free to express their views, even if they differ from yours?’
When confronted by this question, many people are likely to affirm their belief in freedom of speech, which effectively grants you permission to state your case. If they reject freedom of speech, or qualify it various ways, one could discuss that issue with them, rather than their initial question. Of course, we should not be ashamed of God’s Word, but it is wise to lead others through it one step at a time, saving the harder lessons for those who have already accepted some foun-dational truths.
Yours sincerely,
