10 de Abril - O que é uma vergonha no lugar certo?
·3 min
The episode 'O que é uma vergonha no lugar certo?' from the devotional 'Alegria Inabalável' by John Piper examines the role of shame in Christian life. Piper opens by posing the central question about shame in the right place, setting up a theological exploration. He cites Romans 6:20-21, where Paul tells the Roman church that when they were slaves to sin, they reaped things they are now ashamed of because the end is death. Piper explains that when a Christian's eyes are opened to the dishonorable evil of their past behavior toward God, they feel shame. He notes there is an appropriate place for looking back and feeling sad pain for having lived in a way so despicable to God. Piper clarifies that Christians should not be paralyzed by thinking about this, but a sensitive Christian heart cannot remember the follies of youth without feeling echoes of shame, even if resolved with the Lord. He asserts that shame in the right place can be very healthy and redemptive. Piper references Paul's message to the Thessalonians about noting those who do not obey the word given by epistle, indicating shame is a correct and redemptive step in conversion and repentance regarding a time of spiritual coldness and sin. He states shame is not something to be avoided at all costs; there is a place for it in God's good dealings with His people. Piper concludes that the biblical criterion for shame in the wrong place and shame in the right place is radically God-centered. For shame in the wrong place, the criterion is not to be ashamed of something that honors God, regardless of how weak, foolish, or wrong it makes you appear to others, and not to take shame for a truly shameful situation unless truly involved in the evil. For shame in the right place, the criterion is to feel shame for participating in anything that dishonors God, no matter how strong, wise, or right it makes you appear to others. The episode ends with a promotional message for resources from Ministerio Fiel and Desiring God.
