A Thousand and One

As Christians, we disagree on a lot of things. Is it okay to work on Sundays? Is it wrong to eat meat? What kind of schools should we attend? What kind of music can we listen to? How should we engage with political issues? I’ve had many challenging conversations with other Christians on topics like these, and, frustratingly, we never seem to get anywhere.

Part of that is because these aren’t “right or wrong†answers because they aren’t as conclusively addressed in the Bible. When we’re not talking about the basics of the gospel—that Jesus, fully God and fully human, died and rose again as the only Savior from sin and death—we’re dealing with secondary issues.

So, before criticizing others on secondary matters, look at what you’re doing and believing is “right.†Does your decision reflect Jesus and deepen your understanding of His good news, or does your position distract you? Are you more prone to temptation and falling into sin because of it?

Also ask, “How does this choice—and my attitude about Christians who disagree with me—show Jesus to non-Christians who are watching?” Do you want them to see a bunch of people who disagree on everything and judge everyone? No! We are called to extend the love Jesus extended to us, both to our fellow believers and to those who don’t know Jesus (John 13:35; Galatians 6:10; 1 John 4:19).

While it is important to discuss secondary issues, we shouldn’t constantly focus on them. Instead, let us focus on the things we have in common as Christians, realizing that sometimes we can be wrong about something and learn from each other as we seek to know Jesus and His Word better. We are adopted into God’s family, and the gospel is what unites us. • Abby Ciona

• What secondary issues have you disagreed with other Christians on?

• Read Matthew 5:29-30. What does Jesus say about eliminating things that cause us to sin?

• Read Matthew 7:1-5. What does Jesus say about judging others?

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)

Read Verses:

Psalm 136:1-9; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13; 1 John 4:10