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When Christians Disagree

11/1/2019

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Simon Clift writes:
 Jesus didn’t say, “Where 2 or 3 are gathered in my name, there will be disagreement” – but he might as well have done!
 
​Over the last 6 months, a group of 12 of us have met monthly to honestly face up to genuine disagreements Christians have on a range of important issues. We have looked at how we understand the Bible as God’s Word, sanctity of life issues, gender roles within the Church, the place of miracles, a pastoral responses to gender dysphoria and Christian involvement in politics. 

Over the sessions we have grown in our ability to think through the issues and articulate them in a respectful way and to listen to other people’s views. 

​One member said, “I loved the group for "disagreeing well" and showing me that topics I have frequently looked at, still bear revisiting in a different context with different people for fresh insights. In depth discussion can bring me closer to God, both then and on later reflection.“ 

​Another added, “One of the ways in which I hone my views on important issues is by listening to those whom I respect but who may have different opinions and this group provided a forum to facilitate this.” 

​In a world which finds it increasingly hard to disagree well, here is an opportunity for us to model Christian grace and unity despite disagreement.
 
As a group we would love to draw in others (especially from younger generations) who would also be interested in considering important contentious issues in an atmosphere of grace.
 
Email me (SimonClift@doctors.org.uk) or speak to others you know who were part of the group if you are interested to find out more.  
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“We have grown in our ability to articulate issues in a respectful way and to listen” ​
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  • Home
  • About Us
    • Vision and Values
    • Where, when and who? >
      • Calendar
      • Staff
      • How to find us
      • Contact Us
      • Hall Hire
    • Stories
    • Blog
    • Prayer
    • Partnerships
  • In the Community
    • Ukraine
    • Families and children >
      • The Ark
    • Teenagers
    • Older people
    • Environment >
      • A Rocha
      • Andrew & Maria Leake
      • Repair Café
    • Mental Wellbeing
    • Inter-Cultural relations
    • Financial Hardship >
      • The Beacon
      • Scratch
    • Worldwide >
      • CMS
      • ​Busoga Uganda
  • Services
    • online services
    • Sundays in St James
    • Explore Together
    • Life events >
      • Baby baptisms and dedications
      • Weddings
      • Funerals
  • Connect
    • Get connected
    • Groups >
      • small groups
      • Sanctuary arts and crafts
      • Men's events
      • Women's events
    • Serving
    • Giving
  • Learn
    • SHAPE
    • Jesus
    • Talks and sermons
    • Alpha
    • Sermon discussion notes
  • APCM
  • ChurchSuite