Better than You!

As independent baptists we are very much concerned with truth. One could probably say that spiritual foundations are one of the main things that denote who we are as a particular group of baptists. We have always been known by the stands for scriptural truth and inerrancy. Yet, alas we are not the same! In reality we are probably more different than we are the same even though we hold to the same framework of doctrinal belief and practice. Some go to movies, while others only rent and still others abstain altogether. Some ladies wear pants, while other ladies wear only dresses or skirts. Some use drum sets, while others would never dare. Some allow CD accompaniment while others will not. Some fellowship in Hammond while others fellowship in Springfield. These are just a few of the many ways we differentiate ourselves from one another. Although it is hard for two to walk together if they do not agree there can still be mutual respect and Christian love dispite the inability to continue on a path of direct fellowship.

Please do not misunderstand, I certainly believe in standing up for what I believe and will do my best to convince those to come around to my way of thinking! If my positions are not worth advocating for then they would not be worth much. However, no matter how much I believe in my standards or convictions it is never God’s will for them to lead me to pride. This is certainly an area that all of us seem to have a propensity to fall into. Many today seem to be spreading their positions through an attitude of superiority. We will look down upon those who are not as “Enlightened” or as “Sanctified” as ourselves. Most would probably never say it openly, but in the heart a person knows if pride exists.

A different stand than mine is not an attack upon my stand. Nor does a difference of conviction demonstrate a need to reevaluate your own positions. What this difficult time requires is for Christians to stand gladly for what they believe in and let others have the freedom to follow their own path. We must always remember that it is Christ Who is our Lord! And we are no better than anyone else!