Many people in our society are quick to point out how Bible-believing Christians are “intolerant.” If you dare present how God plainly condemns homosexuality – then you are “intolerant.” If you speak God’s truth regarding abortion, you again are labeled as “intolerant.” So, the question begs, “Can I be religious – and be tolerant?” That will depend on what definition of the word “tolerant” you use. You see, many people will argue that the “tolerance” they speak of is merely patience and understanding… but is that really their motive? 

During the Captivity, we read of the young man Daniel who was hand-picked for government service. Daniel was one “in whom there was no blemish, but good-looking, gifted in all wisdom, possessing knowledge and quick to understand, who had ability to serve in the king’s palace, and whom they might teach the language and literature of the Chaldeans. And the king appointed for them a daily provision of the king’s delicacies and of the wine which he drank, and three years of training for them, so that at the end of that time they might serve before the king.” (Daniel 1:4-5) Although Daniel was offered the best to eat and drink, he did not partake because he “purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.” (Daniel 1:8) Daniel was both patient and respectful in his demeanor but would not violate his conscience by going against the laws of God.

In the Early Church, Peter and John were arrested by the Sadducees for preaching about Jesus’ resurrection. The Sadducees were unable to refute their teaching because they could see the miraculous healing of a man who stood by their side. However, the Sadducees commanded them not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus. Peter and John refused to obey, saying that they could not help but share what they had seen and heard (Acts 4:2-20). Later, when they faced opposition for speaking the truth, Peter and the other apostles declared that they would obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29).

You might be wondering how these examples exhibit tolerance. These are examples that indeed show patience, understanding, and respect. Daniel and Peter weren’t disrespectful in their demeanor… but they were understanding and patient… while standing firm in their convictions. You see, there is a big difference in the tolerance that some demand… and acceptance! People today aren’t asking you to be merely patient, understanding, and respectful in your demeanor. No – they want your approval for their sinful behavior. Asking me to be patient with a homosexual or respectful toward a pro-choice individual is one thing – but demanding acceptance and approval is quite another. About how we speak upon these matters, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29)