It was Jesus Himself that said, "A new commandment I give you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:34-35).
However, if I am being honest, many times on public forums and social media, Christians don't appear to have much "love for one another." Jesus made it clear that the unbelieving world should observe the way we interact with one another and be convinced by our words and actions that because we love Him, we love one another. So what does it communicate to the watching world when they see us bickering with one another in a less than gracious manner?
In his helpful book Christianity Cross-Examined: Is it Rational, Relevant and Good?, philosopher and theologian Kenneth R. Samples advises believers how to interact with one another in a way that protects the integrity of evangelism and promotes unity within the body. He writes:
"...I have a proposition for my Christian friends, especially those on social media and around the web. When non-Christians are present and observing, I strongly advise you to avoid debating the denominational differences. Find a more private and appropriate venue for hashing out disagreements. I recognize that Christians sometimes need to discuss and debate different points of view, but why not do so on pages and within groups dedicated to that purpose rather than in a public venue?
If you find it unavoidably necessary to discuss, debate or clarify issues publicly, then be aware of the non-Christians who may be observing. Start with common ground before moving to the denominational differences. It is also vital that Christians practice genuine civility, unity, and charity toward others within Christendom. As Jesus says, 'By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love on another' (John 13:35).
"...I have a proposition for my Christian friends, especially those on social media and around the web. When non-Christians are present and observing, I strongly advise you to avoid debating the denominational differences. Find a more private and appropriate venue for hashing out disagreements. I recognize that Christians sometimes need to discuss and debate different points of view, but why not do so on pages and within groups dedicated to that purpose rather than in a public venue?
If you find it unavoidably necessary to discuss, debate or clarify issues publicly, then be aware of the non-Christians who may be observing. Start with common ground before moving to the denominational differences. It is also vital that Christians practice genuine civility, unity, and charity toward others within Christendom. As Jesus says, 'By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love on another' (John 13:35).
Non-Christians need to see that Christians can disagree in a respectful, gracious manner. Unfortunately, many Christians fail to show each other love in public places. Even if you disagree with my proposal, as a Christian I hope you'll think about the challenge that the appearance of disunity poses for the faith and consider how to address it appropriately. A watching world stands to benefit greatly from our civil, unified, and yet ever-truthful engagement."1
The Apostle Paul put it well in Romans 12:9-13:
The Apostle Paul put it well in Romans 12:9-13:
"Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God's people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality" (NLT).
Kenneth Samples is one of the wisest Christians I have the pleasure of knowing and calling friend and I think his proposition is well worth taking to heart.
For more on the challenge of the appearance of disunity within Christendom and how to address it, I recommend Chapter 10 of Dr. Samples' aforementioned book.
Courage and Godspeed,
Chad
Footnote:
1. Kenneth Samples, Christianity Cross-Examined: Is it Rational, Relevant and Good?, p. 204.
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