Conflict

Straight AheadTo read much of the mainline religious press or attend meetings of mainline governing bodies and worship events, you would come away with the impression that all conflict is, in and of itself, bad--and all unity, no matter upon what basis, is good. Too often when I leave meetings of my own presbytery, I am convinced that the whole idea is to avoid conflict at all cost and promote unity of the body regardless of the issues which may be put profitably on the table for honest debate. Of course, Peter had his conflict with Paul, Luther had his conflict with the whole of Christendom, Wesley had his conflict with Whitefield; but never mind all that. Today, we must avoid conflict altogether. Certainly, I do not advocate conflict simply for the sake of a good show. It would be far better to unite around the basic teachings of Scripture and, where Presbyterians are concerned, the main doctrines of the reformed faith. The fact of the matter however, is that such unity is very difficult because of the great diversity of conviction and interpretation of essential theological points. Without essential agreement on key points of theology and biblical interpretation, conflict is inevitable--and resolution of that conflict is absolutely necessary. I even read of churches who revel in their theological diversity. I must confess that I wonder how such a church can say anything meanigful to a lost and dying world. The issues that have been brought to the fore lately by actions of mainline denominations cannot simply be allowed to sit there, festering, begging for resolution. Decisions must be made which will disappoint many people--whichever side on these various discussions prevails when the final votes are taken. For too long, both sides have talked of compromise, couching their timidity in phrases which sound very spiritual and conciliatory. Eventually, however, issues have to be faced squarely in matters of faith and practice. Out of conflict will come stronger churches, a more robust faith, a more purposeful ministry, and a clarity of belief currently impossible. Yes, it may also be that out of conflict, greater divisions within Protestantism will arise. Is that necessarily bad? May it not be that the eventual unity which can come out of genuine conflict will be a more meaningful unity? How can people be drawn to a church that doesn't really know what it believes? Whatever position we take on the theological and social issues facing our church, let us as individuals serve our risen Lord with integrity, that we may hold fast our clarity of conscience. And may Christ's church resolve that as it seeks to glorify Almighty God and witness to His grace through Jesus Christ, we will, as His body, reclaim a clarity of confession.