How offensive are you?

I would like to take a moment of silence for Chief Illiniwek. Tonight at the Illinois/Michigan basketball game is his last dance. He's been the symbol of The Fighting Illini's competative spirit for over 80 years. When he stepped out onto the field or court, he would get the crowd in a frenzy and let the opposing team know that they were in for a battle.

But no more.

He has been labeled as "offensive" to some Native Americans, noting that the dances he does are mimcking important religious ceremonies and his dress reflects more of the Souix tribe than the actual Illini tribe. They saw him as a mockery or their heritage and an insult to their beliefs and culture.

So, the Chief is now gone, as soon will be the Illini logo that also bears his image. I'm not going to sit here and say why they shouldn't be offended and that they're making a really big deal out of nothing. I do wonder what's in store now for teams like the Florida State Seminoles, the Atlanta Braves, and the Cleveland Indians. I precedent has now been set, and sooner or later another group will go after them.

But this has got me thinking about being offensive to people. We all offend somebody most all of the time. No two people hold exactly the same views, use the same language, hold the same ideals, or think the same thoughts. We all say and act in ways that hurt people, albeit intentionally or unintentionally. So, do people need to thicken up their skin or do people need to be more sensitive or both?

As a Chrisitan, I need to accept the fact that I will offend people with my faith. I mean, it's a very exclusive thing. I believe that the Bible is the Word of God. I believe that Jesus is God and is the only way to heaven. I believe in absolute truth. That's really offensive to most of our pluralistic society.

Galatians 5:11 talks about the "offense of the cross"; meaning that the Gospel will tick people off. When you in essence tell people who aren't believers that their philosophies or religion (or lack there of) are flat-out wrong, what do you expect them to do? They're going to be offended, get angry, hurt, and think that we're nuts. But it's really not about that. It's really not about their feelings, or ours...it's about being true and bold in proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Now, before you run out and just start spouting off telling people they're going to Hell, remember what Paul wrote in Colossians 4:5-6 "Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders (ie, outside the faith), making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may now how you ought to answer each person." We are always to speak and act out of love, not judgment. We need to make sure that we truly are living out the Gospel by people of love, peace, kindness, generosity, and servitude. That way we earn the right to speak the Gospel and have it fall on fertile ears.

But be aware: you'll still offend people.