Darryl's Blog
Beyond niceness
I read this passage in my daily readings this morning:
But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. Warn divisive people once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.
I can't help but think that churches were not as polite back in apostolic days as they are now. Paul seemed to name names and deal publicly with situations. I don't know of any church where divisive people are dealt with in the way that Paul describes.
I'm thinking through the implications, especially relating to the pastoral "niceness" that seems to be the norm these days. Not sure I've got it quite figured out yet.
Update: Don't read too far between the lines. I'm not wrestling with a specific situation, more with myself. I tend to be on the diplomatic side; Paul sometimes named names. I'm trying to figure out how to balance the gentleness and respect that Paul talked about with frank honesty.
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It would be nice to "lay down the law" and legislate what is foolish and what is not. The things I think are foolish are things other people would die for, and vice versa. The sacred cows I would kill are sacrosanct to others. Expel a divisive person and you are branded as divisive yourself.
I'm beginning to see the value of wise and godly church leadership in making decisions such as these.
Hey Darryl....long time no squawk.....hope things are well with you and your family.
While it may just be a question of semantics or translation, I think it is significant to note that St. Paul does not challenge those who would "question". Rather, he saves his judgement for those who would continually "quarrel and argue".
As for the "one man's treasure" arguement, and it's inherent compromises with reason and truth; respectfully, Brian I think that is a point of view Christian's would do well to reject.
As inferred in your second paragraph I think it would be more perfect to discern wisely, live accordingly, teach simply and judge ourselves and others fairly and consistently.
Not every personal opinion or expression is "right" with God. Nor should it be with us.
Maybe Mum was right after all: If you don't have anything nice to say, keep your mouth shut!!!
But there is a difference between stating one's opinion (or asking a valid question) and quarreling over the response.
I agree with Paul. (No, not the Apostle,... Paul Johnston. Not that I disagree with Paul the Apostle, either....)
I think it boils down to an attitude of the heart, an habitual divisiveness that is being spoken of.
I still don't envy you Pastors one little bit. Takes more Wisdom and Tact than I possess to be an effective Pastor.