Permit me to indulge in a matter that weighs heavily upon my spirit—a subject that has long troubled my musings. It pertains to a most lamentable observation: the propensity of some who profess the noble title of "Christian" to exhibit scant compassion, kindness, or love toward their brethren in Christ. These virtues, which ought to define us as followers of the Lord, are oft regrettably absent, leaving a void that is both troubling and unbecoming.
Let me first confess my own frailties. I, too, am but a sinner, fumbling daily in this earthly sojourn. Mistakes and missteps are a part of our shared human experience, and I am no exception. Indeed, when I err—whether in word, deed, or disposition—I strive to seek forgiveness and restoration, aligning my heart anew to the likeness of Christ. Yet, there is a particular vexation that persists: the tendency among some believers to sow division over matters that, while significant, ought not to sever the bonds of brotherly affection.
Allow me to illustrate with an example that is, I dare say, too frequent in our day. I, as someone who follows Calvinist beliefs, often find myself excluded by those who hold to Arminian views—not because of any serious wrongdoing, but simply due to differing opinions on theology. Because of my Calvinist stance, some people especially from the Arminian camp and more specifically in Arminian Charismatics movement even see me as hostile to their being and I don't deserve to own a space in their life and have gone so far as to block me on social media. Mate, what? This, my dear reader, is an absurdity of the highest order. Does not Scripture admonish us to bear with one another in love, to strive for unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace?
Yet, I have been met with the indignity of being summarily "blocked" in this digital age—shunned, as it were, for my convictions. Such behavior is neither charitable nor Christ-like, while there is some exception. But for while theological rigor is vital, it must never serve as a pretext for unkindness or estrangement. Not only do thou art are most self-proclaimed Bible teachers expound upon Scripture without a solid foundation, but thou also incessantly preach about love while failing to abide by thou own teachings. Furthermore, may I dare to say, you are a ''McRib''—You need to call Adam! You ought to assist your fellow man and let the office of teaching on the man shoulder as they exercise discretion in matters of biblical significance. Now, remember matters of ecclesial order, mind you - let us consider the roles delineated by Scripture. The sacred office of pastor or minister, as plainly taught in Holy Scripture, is reserved for men who are qualified, proven in sound doctrine, and of irreproachable character. This is not to diminish the invaluable contributions of women, who are called to teach and nurture within their God-ordained spheres, particularly among women and children. Each role is essential, and both men and women are indispensable to the flourishing of the Church.
However, in our era of boundless online platforms, a troubling trend has emerged. Many who presume to teach and expound upon Scripture do so without the requisite theological grounding or spiritual oversight. A staggering majority—nay, I dare say 90%—of self-styled "evangelists" and content creators disseminate teachings that are, at best, misinformed and, at worst, egregiously heretical. These are not the fruits of deep study of the scripture but rather the errant musings of those swayed by personal feelings, cultural trends, or misguided zeal.
Let us not be deceived: theology is no trifling matter. Doctrine shapes our understanding of God, our worship, and our witness to the world. The Holy Scriptures, breathed out by God Himself, are our supreme authority, profitable for teaching, correction, and instruction in righteousness. To deviate from their truths is to wander into peril.
If your theology does not align with the five solae of the Protestant Reformation—*sola Scriptura, sola fide, sola gratia, solus Christus, and soli Deo gloria—then, dear reader, you are in grave error. I include myself in this admonition, for none of us is above the need for repentance. We must examine our teachings and practices, ensuring they are anchored firmly in the Word of God.
Yet, in our zeal for doctrinal fidelity, let us not neglect the weightier matter of love. What good is if life is not accompanied by the grace and kindness that reflect the heart of Christ? Without love, we are but noisy gongs and clanging cymbals—loud, yes, but hollow.
Let us remember that our unity in Christ far outweighs our differences among Protestants—except for those within the Liberal Woke LGVTQ+ movement, Roman Catholicism, and the Charismatic movement, against which the cause of protestant reformation must continue to stand firm until the end of time. As members of one body, we are called to build one another up, not tear each other down. To my Calvinist brethren, my Arminian friends, and all others who claim the name of Christ: let us forsake the petty squabbles that fracture our fellowship. Instead, let us strive for unity in essentials, liberty in non-essentials, and charity in all things.
My earnest prayer is that we might walk together in humility, steadfast in truth, and abundant in love. May our lives and teachings be a testimony to the power of the gospel, and may we ever seek to glorify our Lord in all that we do. Amen