Sermon Tone Analysis

As we grow in faith and understanding, our perceptions of discipleship should change.

Sometimes these will be barely noticeable changes, sometimes dramatic.

I used to believe that in the perfect church everyone was identical in their manner of thought and behavior, but that has sharply changed.

I) Local church is usually diverse in thought

Differing views on use of mechanical instruments of music in private singing worship, morality of Christians serving in the armed forces, the second serving of the Lord’s Supper, authority for using the church building for social events, women using a head covering, and many other such issues confirm this truism

We all tend to desire a society where we think alike (i.e., the Essenes and monasteries)

I have come to realize and appreciate the value of diversity –

That is not the same as saying that it does not matter what you believe

Much like financial investments, differing strengths help in different circumstances

II) Schools of thought

Jews divided into four main sects (Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, and Zealots) some further sub-divided into smaller groups (i.e., schools of Rabbis)

There was much more in common than areas of disagreement between these sects, and especially within the sects, yet it is those areas of disagreement that get the emphasis – – leading to division

Local churches often have differences in thinking that are exaggerated by focusing on extremes; one church had some who emphasized grace of God, while others emphasized obedience to commands of God; both are Biblical – ;

But, when taken to the extreme, either position will cause one to lose their soul – ;

When we no longer respect another and cut off their influence on us, we are in danger of going to extremes –

III) How to find the value in diversity

One area to value is how the differing views tend to restrain each other from the extremes –

But this can only happen in an atmosphere of mutual acceptance and submission – ;

It is easy to respect those who agree with us most of the time, but difficult to respect those who always seem to think differently – ,

Look at apostles: 1- tax-collector and Zealot, 2- James and John called sons of thunder, 3- Peter was outspoken and perhaps jealous of John, 4- Nathaniel and Thomas would not accept testimony about the Messiah from the others

We must recognize that everyone will not think like we do, but also realize the value to the overall strength of this church of differing ideas and respect for all as children of God.