ODJ: mediator
May 22, 2011
We [who believe] are carefully joined together in Him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord (v.21).
READ: Ephesians 2:1-22
As a mom, I frequently have the opportunity to serve in high-risk negotiations in the prevention of “hostile takeovers.” Nearly 3 years apart, my children are as different as night and day. Though things can change at any given moment, they often play very well together. But when they disagree, it usually takes a third party for them to see any side other than their own. Because I love them both—and both bear my image—I don’t enjoy their arguments or hurtful words.
In the body of Christ, we sometimes don’t think twice before tearing down fellow believers. Whether it’s someone within our local church who has frustrated us or other believers who espouse nonessential beliefs different from our own, we are quick to draw territorial lines. Sadly, some cities can trace their church histories not through church planting but in divisional splits.
Like a parent mediating between two fighting children, the Holy Spirit is grieved when we speak harsh and critical words about other believers. While there is a time and place to denounce those who bring a false doctrine of salvation (Romans 16:17-18; Philippians 3:2; 2 Timothy 3:1-7), and though our disagreements with others can sharpen our understanding of the Word, our assessment of others’ doctrine must be based firmly on the Word and not our personal experience or preference.
Without Christ, we all stand accused (Eph.2:3). We didn’t earn His favor, nor did we earn our salvation. And in Him lies no distinction between denominations, family heritage, or liturgical structure (Gal. 3:28).
When it comes to bridging the differences in the body of Christ, Jesus is our Mediator, and we find common ground through His Spirit (1 Cor. 12:3-6,12-13). After all, He’s returning for a whole bride, not a collection of body parts.
—Regina Franklin
In what ways have you minimized the importance of other churches in your area? What can you do to change the way you talk about other believers (either within your church or other churches)?
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