Read Acts 8:35 & Matthew 5:1-2
“Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.” ~ Acts 8:35 ESV (Emphasis mine)
“And he (Jesus) opened his mouth and taught them, saying:” ~ Matthew 5:2 ESV (Emphasis mine)
“He (Jesus) opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying,” ~ Matthew 5:2 NASB (Emphasis mine)
I love and find it quite interesting how in these passages of Scripture, the writers find it worth noting that Philip and specifically Jesus Christ, Himself, both opened their mouth and taught or told them about the good news -- the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The writers could have just as easily stated that “he taught them” or “he demonstrated to them”. But no….the writers make sure to document that they each opened their mouths and actual words preceded out.
“Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.”
This quote is frequently attributed to St. Francis of Assisi—founder of the Franciscan Order of friars—and is intended to infer that when proclaiming the Gospel, it is more virtuous or effective to do so by your actions and living example than by actually proclaiming verbally/audibly. The quote is often used as a recommendation for how we should primarily or even exclusively evangelize. I've certainly been guilty on a couple of occasions of citing the quote attributed to St. Francis. On many occasions, I (and countless other Christians) probably used the quote to justify not having the words, understanding or the ability in which to effectively articulate what I believed. At other times, I’m sure that it was cited in order to mask a fear of actually engaging someone communicatively -- and being embarrassed or made to look stupid in the process. As a result, I resolved that “just living it out” would be sufficient. Either way, probably more times than not, I’d cite that quote with a slight air of “righteous superiority” and faux-piety. But in reality, I was only aiming to hide my inability to clearly and coherently verbalize my faith.
Here’s the thing, tho….there is not one shred of evidence that actually supports Francis ever having said such a thing. Not one. None of his disciples; early or later biographers have these words coming from his mouth. It doesn't show up in ANY of his writings...not even close. In fact, the statement in and of itself runs quite contrary to what Francis of Assisi valued as paramount and of the utmost importance. It was said that he would go to the extravagant parties of the rich and preach the Gospel to them. When walking the paths of Assisi, Italy, St. Francis would often preach the Gospel to those he met. In fact, historically, St. Francis is often pictured with birds because the story goes that St. Francis even preached the Gospel to them! If he went so far as to preach to birds than surely he wasn’t afraid to preach to the men and women he met.
A man once asked a preacher, “What is the more important to speak on: love or truth?” Without missing a beat, the preacher replied, “Which is more important to a bird, the right wing or the left wing?”. See the point, there?
While there's certainly a good and lovely sentiment in the falsely attributed St. Francis statement -- ie being sure that you live out the grace and truth of the Gospel -- the notion as it is typically presented is neither practical, nor faithful to the Gospel of Christ.
Paul asks the Church at Rome:
“But how can they call on Him to save them unless they believe in Him? And how can they believe in Him if they have never heard about Him? And how can they hear about Him unless someone tells them?” ~ Romans 10:14 NLT
Look...the spirit of the quote is good, and it makes a good point. Our actions do matter. What’s more: actions usually speak louder than words. People are watching what we do. There is no doubt that our lives should proclaim the Gospel. Make sure your deeds match the Gospel you say you believe --- but still SAY WHAT YOU BELIEVE. Speak it! Explain it! Verbally communicate it!
Look out for the opportunities and be willing and able to articulate...to open your mouth and speak...the Gospel message of Jesus Christ to others.
“Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.”
OR...more correctly stated...
At all times, use necessary words if preaching the Gospel.
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"For if we are beside ourselves [mad, as some say], it is for God and concerns Him; if we are in our right mind, it is for your benefit." ~ 2 Corinthians 5:13 (Amplified Bible)
