Is Tolerance Love?

Tolerance has been misused in our society, being wrongly affiliated with the “approval” point of view. But Jesus provided the perfect example of speaking the truth and showing love when he defended the adulterous woman against those who judged her, and also told her “go and leave yourlife of sin.” (John 4:1-30)

Here is some of what Josh McDowell has to say about worldly “tolerance” versus love:

Tolerance says, "You must approve of what I do." Love responds, "I must do something harder; I will love you, even when your behavior offends me."

Tolerance says, "You must agree with me." Love responds, "I must do something harder; I will tell you the truth, because I am convinced 'the truth will set you free.' "

Tolerance says, "You must allow me to have my way." Love responds, "I must do something harder; I will plead with you to follow the right way, because I believe you are worth the risk."

Tolerance seeks to be inoffensive; love takes risks.

Tolerance glorifies division; love seeks unity.

Tolerance costs nothing; love costs everything.