The temptation in our supposedly tolerant age is to settle every issue with indifference, that we 'agree to disagree'. However I think that when it comes to issues of faith such an agreement will both dishonour God and damage people.
Take one issue that is currently being debated in church circles, homosexual sex.
Those taking a liberal view on this issue may sincerely believe that it is dishonouring to God and damaging to people to teach that homosexual sex is wrong. According to this position, condemning homosexual sex only places an unfair sense of guilt upon those who participate in it, may cause people to abstain from entering a satisfying homosexual relationship, and misrepresents God as prohibiting something good.
Those taking the traditional view on this issue may sincerely believe that it is dishonouring to God and damaging to people to teach that homosexual sex is okay. According to this position, teaching that homosexual sin is alright dishonours God because it encourages people to engage in an activity that he opposes. What's more those who hold the traditional view believe that homosexual sex damages people for it places them in a lifestyle which is incompatible with being a follower of Jesus and that God's instructions are consistent with what is good for people.
I could make similar points on many other issues on which there is disagreement within Christian circles. So I believe that if we agree to disagree both sides are saying that our shallow unity and tolerance means more to us that honouring God and seeking what is best for people. So let's agree on one thing: 'we must not agree to disagree'.
1 comment:
If we agree to disagree, especially on the subject you have blogged about, I think that we personally concede our position and the scriptural authority. Your 100%
Happy Easter Paul
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