In the Name of Love
“knowledge puffs up while love builds up” (1 Corinthians 8:1)
Love is a word that is often spoken even when few other words are known. Love is proclaimed as a term that describes the feelings towards God, family, friends, food, sports teams, weather, holidays, etc. The word love can be used to describe almost anything which often leads us to question ‘What is this thing called love?’ Even in the context of faith and community, the things that are done and said in the
name of love can lead us to become resentful, or at least suspicious, of those who seem to use the word too casually. Some can speak of love so authoritatively that we question how well the meaning or purpose is understood.
In 1 Corinthians chapter 8, Paul reminds us that “those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know” (8:2). In the fourth chapter of “40 Days of Community,” Rick Warreninvites us to consider the ways that we are able to grow together. During this season of Lent, we reflect upon the ways we hope to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ. While some may feel extremely confident of their walk of discipleship, there are obviously opportunities for growth for all of us. Perhaps our growth relates to the ways we inspire others to strive to walk more closely with Christ.
Sometimes knowledge relates to the ways another person needs to grow. However, if that knowledge is shared in a way that demeans or ridicules, knowledge can be quite destructive. I’ve frequently heard people say, ‘if I can’t help you, I won’t hurt you’ to suggest that their efforts are always benevolent or neutral, but never harmful. How wonderful would it be if the experiences in church or with people of the church were always edifying? Unfortunately, some of the most devastating injuries have occurred in church or at the hands of those proclaiming to be disciples. In spite of the knowledge that someone may possess, their aims are malicious and their desire is to harm.
The community is strengthened when the knowledge we possess is expressed through a genuine love that is meant to build. Paul addressed the pretentious love that parades as specialized knowledge that only brings barn and destruction. Warren reminds us through his references to the book of Proverbs that “thoughtless words can wound as deeply as any sword, but wisely spoken words can heal”(12:18).
During our visioning process, we are hoping to identify innovative ways to express the healing powers of God’s word to restore the sense of community within and around the church. Your ideas and experiences can help us all improve. The witness of the church is demonstrated through our ministries and our acts of welcome, encouragement, patience and love.
In Christ,
Jon McCoy
