It’s time for a follow-up question. To review, we have affirmed that Christian harmony is both an established fact and an essential goal. We have identified some thoughts and habits which keep us from enjoying true harmony. We have acknowledged the terrible ideas which treat Christians (and anyone else) differently due to ethnicity, skin color, and other classifications.
The first “No” response is this: “No, so don’t focus on them exclusively.” It’s not good to become a specialist who is known for only one subject. Even Bible writers who emphasize certain themes cannot be completely pigeonholed. Paul taught many truths about the Church but also spoke pointedly about the kingdom of God. Peter emphasized kingdom truths but also taught the spiritual house and holy priesthood of the Church.
Even the most wholesome, delicious foods would become tiresome if we ate them exclusively. Scripture supports the need for variety. In time to come, the tree of life will bear 12 types of fruit; and at present, the wise steward of the house sets out both timely food and a diversity of treasures (Revelation 22:2; Luke 12:42; Matthew 13:52).
In our days we face so many challenges in Christian congregations! If people can predict the subject you are going to discuss before you even begin, it's a signal to diversify the food you are setting out for the Lord’s sheep. The manifold grace of God, like a finely cut gemstone, has so many beautiful facets that it would be a shame to appreciate only one or two.
But returning to our question, the second “No” is equally important. Are problems of unrest and discord the only ones we face? We reply, “No-- but that doesn’t mean they don’t matter.” Every problem is important. The Lord Jesus forgave the sins of the paralytic, but He also enabled the man to walk again. He taught the multitudes, but He also fed them. He raised up Lazarus, but He also wept with Mary and Martha.
It is tone-deaf at best and insulting at worst to notice a problem and then change the subject. If I go to the doctor with a broken arm, it might also be true that my cholesterol is high and my hearing is bad-- but, to be frank, I don’t want to discuss those things at the moment. If a brother or sister is facing a specific trouble right now, don’t say, “What about these other problems?” It's biblical to meet urgent needs (Titus 3:14), offering real help instead of empty blessings (James 2:15-16).
Yes, the root cause of all our problems is sin. Yes, we all need to search our own hearts. And no, prejudice and inequality are not the only problems Christians face. But that doesn’t mean the needs of this moment are not important. “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might,” because this moment is all we have (Ecclesiastes 9:10).
No comments:
Post a Comment