Disastrous Divisions

As a young man growing up in the South I was fascinated with the Civil War.  Our education – both academic and social – lauded the culture and patriotism of the region and that led to a much different perspective on the War than was shared by those from above the Mason-Dixon Line.  While I am still pleased with when, where and how I was raised, my interest in the War Between The States has waned.  These days as I drive through places like Chancellorsville, Manassas, “The Wilderness” and Fredericksburg; I find myself less interested in the history and more saddened by what these battles represent.  It was time in our nation’s history where, literally, family turned against family.  It was an era when politics, philosophy, tradition and business was more important than human life.  We will never know the exact total of the number of people who died as a result of the War; but, estimates indicate somewhere between 600,000 and 900,000 citizens of this nation lost their lives.  A country which, less than one hundred years before, had been united in purpose was torn apart to the point that we basically lost an entire generation.

The rationale for this article isn’t to debate the various sides of the Civil War; rather, it is to serve as a reminder of how easily it is for differences to divide us and, when they do, just how serious the consequences will be.  I believe that we should be aware of this in our nation today; but, in all honesty, I believe that this caution is more pressing in the church.  God has blessed us with a combination of an inspired Word and a freedom of thought.  In and of itself this is wonderful; but, we need to remember that this can lead to differences.  By themselves, individual and congregational differences aren’t always a bad thing; but, when they lead to disunity and conflict; the church will suffer.  The impact of this discord might be immediate; but, when allowed to go unchecked, disagreements produce a ripple effect that have a tendency to negatively influence the “next” generation and have a adverse impact on the church of today (and tomorrow).

Please don’t misunderstand me – there are certain fundamentals that are irrevocable; yet, as we discuss these we must blend conviction with gentleness.  Additionally, when we consider subjective matters of opinion we must keep in mind the impact our discussions and decisions will have on the church.  The Apostle Peter noted, “Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart, for you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring word of God.” (I Peter 1:22-23). 

Let’s not repeat the disastrous impact that uncivil unrest had on our nation in the 1860s.  Let’s commit to a love for one another based upon our unwavering love of God.


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