“On some have compassion, but others save with fear…” (Jude 22-23).
This verse encourages sensitivity when dealing with unsaved people. Instead of strictly following a manual which purports to show how to witness to people, it is more preferable to let the Lord Himself adjust us and adapt us to each person’s individual personality and disposition.
Some people are farther along (in God’s dealings with them) than others. We can be attuned to each person’s capacity and spiritual receptivity. This verse tells us that there is a variety of ways people can be won to the Lord.
Instead of using the same technique with everyone, Jude tells us to use compassion with some and fear with others. Each case must be judged on its own merits. With sensitivity, we can adapt to each different situation.
With some people I have had to be deadly serious, while with others I have been able to carry on light conversation, which even bordered on levity. Yet both approaches have produced responses. What will “work” in one instance might be highly inappropriate or in poor taste in another.
Other translations of this verse suggest that we show compassion on those struggling with doubt, but fear with those who are arrogant, haughty, conceited, or rebellious. Proud, self-made people need breaking, broken people need mending. The Holy Spirit will show us each person’s personal need and how to minister to that need.
Compassion or fear. They are both effective tools when used in the right way, at the right time, with the right person.
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.