Do you find that your enemies occur in groups of people that you do not identify with? Do you judge your enemies by the worst examples of their groups? Does that make your task easier to criticize them? But doesn’t every group produce good and bad examples, including your own? What does my word tell you about loving your enemies? If you would do this, then try considering those groups that oppose you by the best examples they produce. That would make a fair comparison to the examples you use to evaluate your own group, and would make you a better example of yours.

What do you think are the qualifications for a prophet? In some circles a bad disposition and a big mouth and a judgmental attitude are enough. Yet true prophets are commissioned by God and anyone who claims this title should welcome the scrutiny it invites and you should be eager to give it. Is it enough to be accurate in what you foretell or forthtell? Those who operate in this gift should do more than bring judgment and correction. How hard is it to be an accuser? That job is adequately staffed with a multitude of volunteers. A true prophet brings forth words with redemptive purpose.

Do you see me as a warrior? There are many Old Testament portrayals of a martial God of vengeance, and you see the same qualities attributed to me in the Book of Revelation. Yet do you find any contrast between those images and the life I lived on earth? Didn’t I tell my followers to put away their swords, to turn the other cheek, and to refrain from calling down fire from heaven on those who opposed them? Am I not known as the Prince of Peace rather than the God of War? Since I have called you to follow me it is important for you to get this right.

Do you see the benefit of being able to read and write? These skills give you access to the whole scope of human knowledge and enable you to contribute to it, but you did not learn this by yourself. You had teachers to instruct you. Do you know how to encounter me and hear my voice? Have you ever had any systematic instruction in how to do this? This ability gives you access to more than just human knowledge. You can learn some things on your own, but for most things the instruction and guidance of those with knowledge and experience is beneficial.