19 Apr 06

Here’s the statement that plunged me into yesterday’s thought stream.

Doctrine is a wonderful servant and a horrible master.

We’ve certainly been reminded of this truth in many painful ways.

I’ve tried without success to track down where I heard the following idea because surely I didn’t come up with something this creative!

I would rather miss a doctrine of Christ than the disposition of Christ.

For you see, I can miss a doctrinal point for many legitimate reasons. Yes, it is possible to be wrong. If I miss the disposition of Christ it is because I have chosen to do so. The Bible says:

In your lives you must think and act like Christ Jesus. (Philippians 2:5 NCV)

The NASB says “have this attitude in yourself.” The Greek word carries the implication to be mentally disposed. In other words decide to think and act like Christ Jesus.

I’m not saying we should choose the disposition (character) of Christ over the doctrine (teachings) of Christ - for the teachings of Christ inculcate within me the character of Christ. I am saying we should always choose the disposition (character) of Christ over the doctrines (teachings) of our church tradition.

On a daily basis I am consistently challenged to make visible the teachings of Christ through my effort to emulate the character of Christ. At the check out line, at the gas station, on the freeway or working with a bunch of monkeys my effective witness for Christ is when others see my acting like Christ.

The issue will not be how right was I, how many debates did I win? The issue will be how well did I reproduce the lifestyle of Jesus in myself and in others.