Oh, how we love to be right.
Lest, we quickly jump to Adam and Eve as the main culprits in the battle for humility, we only need to look at ourselves.
It’s a human problem.
Can you imagine the arguments that took place among Jesus’ disciples? Scripture attests to at least one tense discussion-who would sit on Jesus’ right? Behind the scenes, I’m quite sure there were many other wars of words.
Acts 2 gives a beautiful description of the early church. But we know they didn’t always agree. Varying cultural narratives, changes in power, and different theological interpretations influenced the early church’s attempts to live as one body. It is no surprise that Paul’s letters often address conflicts which arose out of disagreement.
“Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don’t see things the way you do. And don’t jump all over them every time they do or say something you don’t agree with—even when it seems that they are strong on opinions but weak in the faith department. Remember, they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently.” (Romans 14:1)
Michael J Kipman, in his article, “Being Holy in an Age of Being Right” writes, “We struggle to “put skin” on the words and message of Christ with anyone who thinks differently than us. Too often, we demand conformity prior to connection. When we approach one another as brothers and sisters—image bearers of the God we claim to serve—and celebrate what we have in common, we better position ourselves to helpful dialogue in the midst of disagreement.
We carry divine potential for healing and restoration.” (Relevant Magazine July 31, 2012)
Perhaps Paul was on to something: ““So let’s agree to use all our energy in getting along with each other. Help others with encouraging words; don’t drag them down by finding fault. You’re certainly not going to permit an argument over what is served or not served at supper to wreck God’s work among you, are you? ” (Romans 14:19)
Can we agree to do this hard work together?
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Beautifully written, Stephanie, and a great Scriptural reminder!
https://blessed-are-the-pure-of-heart.blogspot.com/2018/02/your-dying-spouse-442-from-barbara-fmf.html
Isn’t it interesting how we so quickly forget to offer love to others, when that should be our reason for interesting with them in the first place. I’m so thankful for the grace of God which lets us begin anew.
Yes! Let’s do this hard work together.
“Can we agree to do this hard work together?”
I’m down. I get so discouraged as I watch people attack each other instead of engaging with ideas. It’s hard, but I really do want to love as Jesus loves.
I’m with you. Listening seems to be in short supply these days as does engaging civilly.