Mark Twain’s version was, “When angry, count to four; when very angry, swear.”
Are Christians ever allowed to get that angry? In Acts 13:6–12, we see Paul get angry. Elymas, a false prophet, knowingly placed himself between the gospel message and a searching soul. Paul became so angry he actually called Elymas a “son of the devil” who was “full of deceit and all villainy.” I wonder if Paul waited for a ten count or opted for the four-count before speaking?
So, should we go around today telling people they are children of the devil? Maybe. If we are attempting to share the good news of Jesus Christ and a false teacher tries to stop it, then maybe. Otherwise, this passage doesn’t give us permission simply to count to four or swear.Do you want to know more about the good news of Jesus Christ?
Photo by luis arias on Unsplash
