By this point, we probably all know much more than we ever wanted to about the Tiger Woods affair. For his and his family's sake, we should hope that there won't be any more new revelations.In light of everything that has transpired over the last two weeks, Tiger made the wise decision yesterday to take an extended leave from professional golf. On his personal website, he said, "I am deeply aware of the disappointment and hurt that my infidelity has caused to so many people, most of all my wife and children. I want to say again to everyone that I am profoundly sorry and that I ask forgiveness. It may not be possible to repair the damage I've done, but I want to do my best to try."
We should show compassion by giving Tiger the benefit of the doubt. Let's believe that he is sincere.
Something else that Tiger later said on his site shows his desperate need for the gospel. He wrote, "I need to focus my attention on being a better husband, father, and person."
His wording is very important. Tiger is going to focus on being "a better person." This is a classic statement by a lost person who realizes that he has done something wrong. Tiger has fallen into the moralism trap. It appears from this wording that he is going to try to improve himself by his own strength. He'll try to pull-himself-up-by-his-bootstraps. Tiger is a talented person and has thus far in his life been able to accomplish just about everything he has wanted to. He'll work hard at becoming a better person.
Under his own power, Tiger will fail at becoming a better person. It is only through the gospel of Jesus Christ that we can live honorable lives. This is because after we are saved by the grace of God, the Holy Spirit begins a work of transformation in us. This makes it possible for us to increase in holiness and godliness. As this happens, we are able to truly enjoy and serve our glorious Lord.
Tiger desperately needs to hear the gospel in a way he can understand. Unfortunately, he is also very difficult to contact. Let's show compassion for him by praying that God will send someone to him with the gospel. Let's also pray that God will change Tiger's heart and save him from his sins.
8 comments:
Eric,
A good word you have written, to be sure. I understand what you are saying and agree wholeheartedly, however, I am going to nitpick a little bit. I think, more pointedly, Tiger Woods needs Jesus.
You wrote, "Under his own power, Tiger will fail at becoming a better person. It is only through the gospel of Jesus Christ that we can live honorable lives."
True. However, the gospel of Jesus Christ is not the end game. The gospel gets us to Jesus. Jesus, Himself, is answer.
Okay, nitpicking over. Good post.
Les
Les,
Thanks for the comment.
Just so you know, the reason I emphasized the gospel in this post is because there are so many churches that teach a moralistic "Jesus message." They teach what amounts to, "Jesus was a good man, so you be good too and Jesus will help you." I wanted to get away from that, so emphasized the gospel.
I wholeheartedly agree with you about needing Jesus. I just don't see a separation between Jesus and the gospel.
I think we are in complete agreement, but are simply stumbling over some words.
God bless.
Eric,
Absolutely! Our Lord, Jesus Christ, IS the only way!For the whole family!
Are you going to write to him and send him something for both he and his family?
John,
I'm not sure what to do as far as sending him anything. He seems absolutely unapproachable.
Sending our prayers to the Lord on Tiger Woods' behalf may be the best gift we can offer. I know some people shun praying for celebrities for some reason, but celebrities need the Lord too... and often their need is quite apparent as we watch their lives laid bare in the media.
In Christ, Talya
Talya,
I agree completely. Tiger needs the Lord desperately; he has finally met a problem he cannot conquer alone (sin).
God bless you on your trip!
Apparently Dr. Mohler agrees with you too, honey.
http://www.albertmohler.com/2009/12/14/the-travail-of-tiger-woods-lessons-not-to-be-missed/
Thanks for the link. See you soon!
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