Moving from Sword to Scepter by Wanda Alger

Author:Wanda Alger [Alger, Wanda]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Publisher: Destiny Image, Inc.
Published: 2020-02-18T00:00:00+00:00

Bridging the Gaps

I would like to suggest several ways in which we can build bridges to better relationships with one another in our various spiritual streams. If we truly see the Kingdom vision beyond our own cultural and theological fields of influence, we will gladly reach across our fences in order to form a more perfect union.

1. Separate Dogma, Doctrine, and Opinion

Dogmas (“ordinances”) are the core beliefs of the Christian faith that unite us. These include the virgin birth, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the inerrancy of Scripture, the need for salvation through the cross, the returning of the Lord, etc. These are nonnegotiable for the true Christ-follower (see 1 Corinthians 15:3-5, Titus 2:11-15).

Doctrines (“teachings”), on the other hand, are interpretations of biblical practices that may vary from one fellowship to another. These would include issues like how one is baptized, involvement in the military, a woman’s place in the church, speaking in tongues, eschatology, etc. These are not necessarily foundational to a person’s salvation but are valid convictions to those who hold them. We can have doctrinal differences but still relate as brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ if our dogmas (core beliefs) are in place (see Acts 15:1-21).

Opinions are just that—personal preferences. These would include feelings about worship styles, the pastor’s personality, the leadership structure, the programs or lack of them, the color of the walls, etc. These should never be the reason for disavowing someone or discrediting a church (see 1 Timothy 6:3-5, Philippians 1:15-18).

If we can differentiate between these three, we can more easily join together for prayer and fellowship by keeping the core values of our faith central.

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all (Ephesians 4:1-6).

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