Children, let no one deceive you.
The person who acts in righteousness is righteous,
just as he is righteous.
Whoever sins belongs to the Devil....
Scholars believe that Saint John's First Letter was a commentary on the Gospel, written somewhat later to clear up misconceptions, and after further hard experience. The author retains his joy at the mercy of the Lord, and the wonderful works he has seen, but his beloved Church has also suffered much betrayal.
Today's passage concerns the wolves in sheep's clothing who have insinuated themselves into the flock and caused controversy, division, and great distress. Some are members who should no longer be trusted; others may be second generation disciples who have all the credentials of membership -- good parents, good education, etc -- but are causing distress for no apparent reason.
The Divine Author urges his people to recognize a bad tree by its fruit. If their behavior, words, or attitudes are persistently obnoxious to the community; if nothing they do displays the presence of the Holy Spirit, put them out of the Church. They don't belong; perhaps they never belonged. Nor will they go away by themselves. They like the way the Church provides for them but they are only parasites.
Saint Matthew's gospel also described helpful ways to deal with troublesome people. Confront them personally, first in a private conversation. If they won't listen to a close advisor, set up an encounter with a small group of concerned and caring individuals who might effectively challenge the person. A group acting in solidarity demonstrates the spirit of the group and its right attitudes more effectively than one person. They can counter whining excuses and deflect angry reactions without conceding too much, even as they maintain an attitude of genuine concern. A group knows the story better than any individual, and will recognize the false concessions and appeasements.
If that fails, let the entire church challenge them in a formal trial. If they will not listen to the church, put them out. They don't belong; perhaps they never really belonged. We cannot afford their presence among us for they threaten the innocence of the young and trigger anxiety among the vulnerable. They seem incapable of receiving and acting within the Spirit of God.
I've been on both sides of the conversation. It's not a pleasant experience but it is necessary and good. It's the kind of sacrifice we expect from those who follow the Crucified Lord. And I am grateful to those who challenged me. I knew I was in trouble but had not realized how much trouble I was causing. I learned to do penance and make atonement and recognize the bad spirits that sometimes occupy my heart.
The Divine Authors knew the Lord and his people. Like God himself, their wisdom doesn't age with the passage of time. We listen to them, we ponder, we study and discuss their writings, and we learn to walk in the Saving Spirit of the Lord, for we cannot save ourselves.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.