Over the past few years, I have become very aware of the conflict between Conservative, Moderate, and Liberal Baptists and I am disconcerted by the fact that people in all parts of the spectrum choose to focus on the division within Baptist life rather than the uniting mission of God to which we are called. (Note: While I am sure this is occuring or has occured in other denominations, I am speaking of the context with which I am familiar.) Some of you may be thinking I am not old enough to really understand what is going on and has gone on but I have heard many stories from people on all sides of the spectrum explaining what happened and how that made them feel. While I realize that for many within the Baptist denomination that was not a pretty time, I also realize that we cannot live in the past pain and hurts forever. We have to come to a point where we can work through our feelngs and move forward. By no means am I suggesting that the Baptist world should unite under one convention again. I recognize that there are theological differences significant enough to allow for multiple conventions. I also realize that we as Baptists no matter what end of the spectrum we are on are known for bashing others who are bit like us. I have heard Conservatives bash Liberals and Liberals bash Conservatives, This is a huge indication that we have a seriously misguided focus. We have lost sight of the mission and lifestyle to which God has called us.
We are called to love and serve one another. Nowhere in the Bible do I see the command to only love those who are just like you. This passage may help to shed a little light on the lifestyle to which we are called.
" ‘You have heard that it was said, “You shall love your neighbour and hate your enemy.” But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax-collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers and sisters,* what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?" -Matthew 5:43-47 (NRSV)
This love should extend not only to other Baptists, who we may not agree with, but to others outside of the Baptist world and outside of the church altogether. Imagine how different our world would look if everyone who attends church began to live out the commands in Matthew 5:43-47. Imagine the impact the church could have if it set aside the differences and began to love one another and work alongside one another to serve the surrounding communities and world. Let us learn how to love one another despite our differences.
Here is a song that really illuminates what I am talking about:
