Neal Pollard

–Be careful not to be this guy: “God, I thank you that I am not like other people…” (Luke 18:11). Remember, “He also told this parable to some people who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and viewed others with contempt” (9)
–Let us respect the autonomy and judgment of congregations (and elderships)(Titus 1:5-11) who are having to make tough calls about assembling during this time without making this a faith matter.
–Perhaps this global situation, which awakens people to the possibility of death and reality of mortality, will turn people to Christ and the hope of eternal life. When they search, will they find loving (John 13:34-35), faith-filled (1 Peter 1:3) lights on a hill (Matthew 5:16) or condescending, mean-spirited people who repel the searchers and slap the hands of those reaching out for the Bread of life?
–However we respond, may we remember this: “To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing” (1 Peter 3:8-9). These folks faced the threat of death for their faith, and God expected them to respond this way. How much more in the present circumstance?