By Ed Stetzer, The Exchange
It takes work to have a harmonious family.
That’s true of your biological family and your church family.
It’s also true of your denominational family.
The fact is, each member within a family has a tendency to find their own style and way in life. But as each individual develops their own unique identity, they should not develop a spirit of pride over the others in the family.
That’s a key to peace and unity in denominations.
Denominations should recognize that their uniqueness is part of a healthy diversity that can serve the family well. There should be a complementary understanding of uniqueness. Each generation can idolize its own ways to the point of conflict. (We call this “the teenage years” at home.)
But maturity and unity takes effort and understanding… and it can and does come to denominations that will pursue it.
The Challenge
Often in denominations, those with experience who are trying to encourage stability are seen as out of touch. Sometimes they are out of touch, but by my experience is that they often just have a different view.
Those who are pushing the envelope to make an immediate impact are seen as aggressive.
But often the two groups are just talking (or shouting) past each other.