Perhaps the true measure of a Christ follower is how they disagree. When we come face to face (or screen to screen) with someone we don’t agree with, how do we respond? I have seen a lot of “followers” who have misguided responses on both social media and in person. Posting memes, ridiculing the convicted, and betraying the patience of their savior. We must be careful of not only what opinions we hold, but how we share them. Believers have higher expectations of them. It may be unfair, but our Lord calls us to a rare level of discussion. When we know the tenants of faith – those formational spirit led topics such as the protection of life, the pursuit of justice, the value of the marginalized, and the overflow of grace towards ones enemies – it informs all we say and hold to. When we share and eventually disagree, we are to find a way to lift up the person we speak with. It is a deeply held but under exercised practice to “love your enemy”. Do we hold to this? Perhaps the problem is in our classification of those who we disagree with. We too easily relegate them to “enemy” status.
And of course, I am guilty of this. I can sometimes perform theological gymnastics to align God’s views with my own. I may have deep convictions, but I must constantly remind my thick skull of the warm heart of Christ. Yet, I hope when I do share my views, they are colored with the saving grace of my patient savior. I have made a recent commitment to check each view and method of communication with the conviction of the Spirit.
So, how would Christ wish us to respond to flag protests? Would He care? Would He ridicule athletes who feel a sense of moral conviction through sophomoric memes and personal digs?
Maybe the bigger question is how He feels about race and the value of human life?
May the Spirit convict you to rise above the current level of civility many readily settle for.
Matt simon blog 