04.03.08
generosity of spirit
I just read an excellent article posted on the Christianity Today website by Richard Mouw, president of Fuller Theological Seminary. It is a very thoughtful challenge to relate to those with whom we disagree with a spirit of grace that fits the gospel message itself. Though he is speaking primarily about relating to people of our faiths, his words apply as well to the current challenges we face within our own church body. As we make our way through rediscovering who we are as a church body, it is critical that we see those with whom we disagree as whole persons and not allow ourselves to dismiss them as hopelessly out of touch with reality or out of touch with God.
Here’s a short sample from the article by Mouw:
“The obligation of nurturing a gentle and reverent spirit toward those with whom we disagree takes on a new urgency for us today in engaging those who represent non-Christian religions and lifestyles. How do we convey our Christian convictions while displaying a spirit of generosity in our relationships with others?”
An excellent question for relating to those of other faiths as well as other believers with whom we find ourselves in disagreement.
Gene
