By Ron Price
During a recent rare visit with my atheist sister-in-law, she asked me what my religion was. In response to my answer, “Seventh-day Adventist,” she asked, “So what are the rules?” I was taken back by her question, but quickly realized that so much of religion centers around rules and expectations of behavior.
On that note, I’m afraid we are no different from so many other faiths. I also fear that many non-believers think that living for God is simply a matter of doing or not doing.
Now, before you read too much into what I am saying, please know I am happy to be a member of a church whose constituents take seriously their role of submission to the “Higher Power” (please note the capital H and P). No one would ever accuse us of subscribing to a “cheap grace” philosophy.
Having said that, however, it seems plausible that we might fall into the trap of making our obedience and our fidelity to expectations the cornerstone of our walk with God. We could easily expect others to live by the same standards of faith that we deem appropriate. In the proper pursuit of unity in the church, we might mistakenly seek to implement uniformity.
Sometime ago, I read an article in a Sabbath School leaders’ magazine which contrasted principles and applications. I don’t have time or space to get deeply into this now, but suffice it to say that principles are universal, timeless, and applicable to all. How we apply those principles to our individual lives, however, can vary greatly from one person to another.
Instead of achieving unity, when we demand or even insinuate that all members and guests must act, think and believe identically to everyone else, we could actually create disunity and resentment.
At a Western Slope camp meeting, a speaker told us that he chose to be very conservative in leading his own life, but very liberal in letting others live theirs. Please don’t take that too far. The Bible clearly tells us that if we see a brother or sister in open sin, we are to go to them directly (not to any- one else!) and lovingly confront them about their actions.
The point I got from the speaker was that it is not my job to be the Holy Spirit and tell others how they should live.
It seems that so much of life is striking the right balance between two extremes. In this case, do we want our churches to be private clubs where only those of similar beliefs and practices are welcome, or should we strive to be an association of sorts where all are free to practice their faith however they see fit? My view is that neither option is how Christ would have us live. As in all areas of life, Christ must be the standard by which we shape our lives.
So here are just a few thoughts on what we might do to make sure that our churches are loving and welcoming for both members and visitors alike:
The Golden Rule might be a great place to start. And while you’re at it you may want to consider the Platinum Rule—treat others as they would have you treat them. Remember to “Push the Pause Button” and choose your attitude and mindset before you enter the church building. Determine in advance that you are going to be a loving representative of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Last, and most important, make sure that you and God are on good terms. Spend sufficient time with Him that you know, and you know that you know, that He loves you, He values and esteems you, He chooses and accepts you. Be so filled with His Holy Spirit that His love, grace, mercy, and kindness can’t help but overflow from you into others.
–Ron Price is a member of the RMC executive committee from Farmington, New Mexico. Email him at: [email protected]