Have You Been Influenced By Cynics?

Today's Cynics-Should  You Display Their Traits?

The Oxford English Dictionary describes a present-day cynic as "a person disposed to rail or find fault. . . .One who shows a disposition to disbelieve  in the sincerity or goodness of human motives and actions, and is wont to express this by sneers and sarcasms; a sneering fault-finder."  These traits are manifested in the world around us, but, of course, they are not compatible with the Christian personality.  Consider the following teachings and principles of the Bible.

"Jehovah is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness.  He will not for all time keep finding fault, neither will he to time indefinite keep resentful."  (Psalm 103:8, 9) Christians are told to "become imitators of God."  (Ephesians  5:1) If Almighty God chooses to exhibit mercy and an abundance of loving-kindness rather than be "disposed to rail or find fault," surely   Christians should try to do the same>

Jesus Christ,the exact representation of Jehovah, 'left a model for us to follow his steps closely.'  (1 Peter 2:21; Hebrews  1:3) At times Jesus exposed religious falsehoods and testified concerning the world's wicked works.  (John 7:7) Yet, he said complimentary things about sincere people, for instance, he said regarding Nathanael:  "See, and Israelite  for a certainty, in whom there is no deceit."  (John 1:47) when Jesus performed a miracle, he might focus on the recipient's faith.  (Matthew 9:22) And when some thought that a woman's gift of appreciation was extravagant, Jesus was not cynical about her motives but said:  "Wherever this good news is preached in all the world, what this woman did shall also be told as a remembrance of her."  (Matthew 26:6-13) Jesus was a trusting friend and an affectionate companion to his followers, 'loving them to the end.' -John 13:1.

Since Jesus was perfect, he could easily found fault with imperfect people.  Instead of manifesting an unbelieving and faultfinding spirit, however, he sought to refresh people. -Matthew 11:29, 30.


Next time: Conclusion of Today's Cynics-Should You Display Their Traits?

Watchtower, 2000