We ought to learn how to argue in a principled way - fairly, reasonably, and graciously. We need to cultivate the ability to disagree with civility and not take opposition personally. We must also have the grace to allow our own views to be challenged with evidence, reasoning (and Scripture). Those who refuse to dispute have a poor chance of of growing in their understanding of the truth.
When the church discourages principled debates and a free flow of ideas, the result is shallow, stifled, unhealthy Christianity and a false sense of unity. The oneness that is shared is contrived, not genuine. Worse, they lose the ability to separate fact from fiction. "Groupthink" and "yes men" and "coerced unanimity" stifle independent thinking and principled implementation of concepts into reality. When arguments and disputes are few, then tyranny and heresy and error abounds. Fear rather than faith becomes the primary influence.
Several thoughts here are aapted and expanded from the book, Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions by Greg Koukl. Several thoughts are my own.
When the church discourages principled debates and a free flow of ideas, the result is shallow, stifled, unhealthy Christianity and a false sense of unity. The oneness that is shared is contrived, not genuine. Worse, they lose the ability to separate fact from fiction. "Groupthink" and "yes men" and "coerced unanimity" stifle independent thinking and principled implementation of concepts into reality. When arguments and disputes are few, then tyranny and heresy and error abounds. Fear rather than faith becomes the primary influence.
Several thoughts here are aapted and expanded from the book, Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions by Greg Koukl. Several thoughts are my own.