Mixed Messages

A mixed message is a form of communication where verbal, non-verbal, or behavioral cues contradict each other, creating confusion for the recipient. Everyone does it at times. Some more than others. Unfortunately, it seems as if a lot of Christians excel at this. Consider some examples.

We preach love and show hostility. We condemn sin and excuse it in our own group … or selves. We teach forgiveness and hold grudges. We preach compassion but avoid “messy people.” Hypocrisy is the word here.

Hypocrisy isn’t the only mixed message we send. There is materialism. We say “God is enough” but live like money is the real security. We call for generosity but don’t practice it.

Another area where our message gets muddy is politics. We boldly declare that “Jesus is King” and then treat political leaders as saviors. We call for political unity then fuel division.

In the realm of sexual ethics, we’re real strong on promoting sexual purity but excel at ignoring the sexual scandals in our churches. We beat our chests in defense of marriage and find that too many of us are divorced.

The list goes on and on and most of us find ourselves figuring prominently in these mixed messages. We boldly declare God’s sovereignty and worry about tomorrow. We celebrate that we are “more than conquerors” while complaining that life is too hard.

Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matt 5:14-16). That is, “Practice what you believe and do it to the glory of God.” And note … the standard by which you are to do your good works is not “the best you can.” It is “to glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Conversely, if it is true that we always act on what we truly believe, what do our works and attitudes say about what we truly believe? Are your works drawing people toward God’s glory or distracting them from it?