the best defense is to take offense
When serving in the now inactivated United States Air Force Tactical Air Command, I often heard our mission summarized as "The Best Defense Is A Good Offense." In the 35 years since that slogan has been brandished around in many of the varied work, relational, and social contexts in which I have lived.
In the church however, I have experienced another less glorious tool. The best defense is to take offense.
Time and time again, I listened to stories about the old church mothers, the defend and control addicts of a generation past. That's when I first became aware of the reality that in some churches the best defense, against accountability for sin and/or lack of growth, is to take offense.
Now, I have become aware of many church women who use this accountability dousing tool. Even sadder I have found that for an often reckless majority of churched men - whether still active in a church or not - taking offense has become THE primary way they engage with all things spiritual. Taking offense has worked better for these controlling spirits and their ancestors than gossip (a prime offensive tool) and prayer.
Now, I have become aware of many church women who use this accountability dousing tool. Even sadder I have found that for an often reckless majority of churched men - whether still active in a church or not - taking offense has become THE primary way they engage with all things spiritual. Taking offense has worked better for these controlling spirits and their ancestors than gossip (a prime offensive tool) and prayer.
- What do you take offense at? Why?
- Are you, without thinking about it, using being offended as self-defense?
- Did Jesus practice being offended as a form of defense? If not, what did he do?
Sure would like some feedback on this one.
I HAVE NEVER MET ANYONE EXCEPT MY WIFE AND I WHO HAS READ THE BOOK - The Bait of Satan! WHY?
WHEN I RECOMMENDED "The Bait of Satan" TO MY ELDERS AND CHURCH MEMBERS YOU WOULD HAVE THOUGHT I WAS ASKING THEM TO BECOME INFECTED WITH THE PLAGUE. THAT'S HOW THREATENING THIS TOPIC IS TO THE INNER DYNAMICS OF SOME CHURCHES AND ELDER BOARDS.
"Escape the enemy's deadly trap! The Bait of Satan exposes one of the most deceptive snares Satan uses to get believers out of the will of God-offense. Most people who are ensnared by the bait of Satan don't even realize it. Don't be fooled! You will encounter offense, and it's up to you how it will affect your relationship with God. Your response will determine your future. If offense is handled correctly, you will become stronger rather than bitter. In this tenth anniversary edition of his best-selling book, John Bevere shows you how to stay free from offense and escape the victim mentality ... This book includes testimonials of transformed people who have read the original book and a devotional supplement, featuring discussion questions, scriptures, and prayers. You will find answers to tough questions like these:
- Why am I compelled to tell "my side" of the story?
- How can I fight thoughts of suspicion or distrust?
- What can I do to stop rehearsing past hurts?
- How can I regain trust after someone deeply offends me?
This book will help you escape the enemy's "offensive trap" as well as empower you to stay free of offense, enabling you to have an unhindered relationship with God."
About the Author:
John Bevere is the author of ECPA and CBA top sellers, Thus Saith the Lord?, Breaking Intimidation, The Fear of the Lord and The Bait of Satan. John is dedicated to seeing this nation brought to revival and restoration. To pursue this purpose he founded John Bevere Ministries in 1990. John and wife, Lisa, live in Colorado Springs, Colorado, with their four children.
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