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Light or Darkness
by Jonathan Perz
I am all for examining our faith, doctrine and practices. This includes our traditions and catechisms (summaries of doctrine), even though we often prefer to deny that we have any such thing. It is healthy and good to do so and right and necessary to make changes as they are found wanting in light of God's word and will.
However, I question and challenge the Spirit that does so with a sneer, and with mocking and with derision -- even unintentionally so. Such merely fuels the bitterness and division and turmoil Satan has brewing in our midst. We tap (and sometimes pound) the hammer on the bitter wedges that Satan is using to divide us, instead of making a soul-searching and spirit-filled appeal to unite on God's truth. Satan seeks to divide God's people. God seeks our unity. Whose work are we doing?
Therefore, avoid the urge to mock and deride traditions that are not necessarily wrong or sinful. Scripturally make your appeals and suggestions for that which you believe is better, recognizing the right of expedient and lawful action in both cases. Love your brother more than your opinion. If a doctrine is wrong and sinful, remember the wisdom of Paul to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:24-26. Avoid expressions that generally cast the Lord's people under the bus, so to say, with their error. Is not our shared and charged goal to save souls and maintain the unity of the Spirit? Don't forget the charge to couple longsuffering with doctrine in 2 Timothy 4:2.
If God's truth naturally divides, that cannot be helped and things are as God wants them to be. However, it is another thing altogether when it is our spirit in handling His truths that causes the division. We will not remain blameless in such cases. May we always bear the fruit of the Spirit as we address the perceived maladies of Christ's body. Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are never wrong and always glorify God. Let us live them as we preach and teach, challenge and discuss, reprove and rebuke. May we not only hold Christ our Head in reverence, but may we always hold His bride whom He died for in love and honor as well.
Other Articles by Jonathan Perz
"Confused" by Truth
Dressing Our Daughters Like Prostitutes
Is the New Testament a Law?
Coming to the Defense of Sin and Error
Fellowship With God is Conditional
