Sometimes we’re so convinced we’re right about a particular belief, a specific way of seeing or understanding the world, or, even, a way of interprepting a particular portion of Scripture that we tell ourselves it’s more Jesus-like to remove ourselves from relationship with people who think or believe differently than we do. In essence, we can believe purity of doctrine or adherence to biblical interpreptations is more important than extending love and relationship to those we disagree with. This week, Pastor Shaq Hager focused on Acts 28:11-22, leading to a congregational conversation focused on three questions:
- What beliefs do you find problematic in other Christians?
- Which of your own beliefs do you think other Christians might find problematic?
- How can we, as Jesus prays in John 17, be one as followers of Jesus while also holding space for our disagreement?
*In the podcast, you’ll hear Pastor Shaq set-up the discussion and then you’ll hear a few seconds of quiet. Then, Pastor Shaq will lead a brief prayer. Feel free to pause the sermon after Pastor Shaq introduces the conversation questions and reflect on them on your own.