Be kind and loving to each other, and forgive each other just as God forgave you in Christ.
Ephesians 4:32 (NCV)
We had a difficult meeting last night with some folks who love Jesus but struggle with certain aspects of biblical interpretation.
Here’s what I appreciate and respect about them:
1. They love Jesus.
2. They came to talk about their issues face to face.
3. They want to honor God in the assembly of the saints.
I don’t agree with their method of interpretation or application.
I do believe God loves them as much as he loves me and expects us to treat each other with kindness and compassion, mercy and grace, acceptance and forgiveness.
I also believe God expects us to assume and expect the very best intentions.
There was a time in my life when it was important to win the argument. I was an arrogant, self-righteous idiot.
Now it is of utmost importance to me for the relationship to win. I know it may not be possible.
Well meaning people who love Jesus have and will continue to disagree on many things.
It’s not about being right or wrong. It’s about loving, listening and learning.
This is what life, together, looks like beneath the cross of Jesus.
