As of late the topic of division within the body of Christ has been on my mind. My friend Danny Detres and I have been debating this topic for the last couple of weeks, especially concerning the controvery around Rob Bell. I read his book, Velvet Elvis: Repainting the Christian Faith, there might be a thing or two that I disagree with, but I there is nothing heretical, divisive or un-biblical. I think that there is to much division within the church today. We are here to preach the gospel, make disciples of the world and lift our brothers and sisters up, not down(Matthew 28:19-20). Paul teaches us that we should not debate or get caught up on silly details that are not cosiquencial when it comes to salvation, which only cause division (1 Corinthians 1:10-31/Titus 3:9). Jesus himself was apposed to such bickering to the point in which he didn't choose he's own people(the Jews), but the gentles to be his church(Matthew 23:37-39/John 8:31-41/Romans 3:27–4:25). When confrunted by the Pharisees, he had more distain for their judgement attitudes then even the sin of adultary(John 8:3-11). The Pharisees at that time were so caught up with silly matters that they didn't pay attention to what's important, like loving and seeking God and loving our neighbor(Matthew 22:37-39/John 14:6/Matthew 6:33). Everything else are details.
I never advise getting into a Biblical debate with a non-believer. You should preach them Christ, through faith, not through proof. You will never CONVINCE a person to believe. The Holy Spirit is the one that softens the heart. We just need to plant the seed by sharing our personal testimony and speaking to them about Jesus, His love, sacrifice, and ask them to ask put their faith in Him and ask Him to give them understand through His Spirit. Before and after you have spoken to a person, pray for them, that God may take the veil off their eyes to see the truth. And last be there for them, be there friend, love them un-conditionally. Don't be there to point out all their sins and problem. Be and example and testimony of God's love, not God's judgment.
References:
Titus 3:9-11 "But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless....
2 Timothy 2:23 "Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels"
1 Corinthians 3 Division in the Church... Some are calvanist, some are armanians, but all are Christians.
1 Corinthians 12 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit - One body, many parts.
Mark 7:9-13 Man made traditions
Mark 9:38-49 - "...not one of us..."
Matthew 20:1-16 - Or are you envious because I am generous
1 Corinthians 13:1-3 ...but have not love
John 13:34-35 By this all men will know that you are my disciples
1 Corinthians 8:9-13 Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block
Disclaimer: Please forgive my spelling and grammer. I am a product of the Miami-Dade County Public School System.
