Truth in Tension
Dr. Greg Mitchell
Part of We Run as One
November 21, 2021

We live in a world of opinions.

Our security is found in God’s truth as a compass, an anchor.

Every word of God is flawless. —Proverbs 30:5

A challenge: Biblical truths contradict each other.

  • Luke 6:37 and 1 Corinthians 2:15

  • John 3:16 and 1 John 2:15

  • Romans 13:1 and Acts 5:29

  • Romans 12:18 and Matthew 10:34

  • Acts 16:3 and Galatians 2:3

Which one?! 3 recommendations:

1. List – Match your list to God’s Word.

  • In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things, charity.

For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures. —1Corinthians15:3

Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters. —Romans 14:1

2. Love – Be motivated by love.

  • The tensions of truth are solved with love, not logic.

The entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” —Galatians 5:14

Do everything in love. —1 Corinthians 16:14

3. Listen – Be a learner.

  • The Bible is complete, but our knowledge is not. So, we must learn to listen.

Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. —Prov 15:22

To answer before listening—that is folly and shame. —Proverbs 18:13

Conclusion: List, love, and listen.

It is good to grasp the one and not let go of the other. Whoever fears God will avoid all extremes. —Ecclesiastes 7:18

Discipleship Guide

Let’s Connect

  • Happy Thanksgiving! What are you thankful for?

Let’s Talk About It

Paul encourages us to make every effort to work for unity. It’s so worth it! In a world of opinions, God’s truth is our anchor and security. When you’re confronted with differing opinions, list, love and listen. Match your list to God’s Word. The tensions of truth are solved with love, not logic. Be a humble learner who listens well. Remember, in essentials, unity. In non-essentials, liberty. In all things, charity.

Proverbs 30:5; 1 Corinthians 15:3; Romans 14:1; Galatians 5:14; 1 Corinthians 16:14; Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 18:13; Ecclesiastes 7:18

  • Which part of the message made an impact, caught your attention or challenged you?

  • Read Proverbs 30:5. What are some biblical truths you find difficult to reconcile with each other?

  • Ask the Holy Spirit to highlight a tension of truth, specifically where you are not sure what to do in a practical situation.

    o Read Romans 14:1. Is this a matter of “first importance”, or is it a “disputable matter”? How does that shape how you will treat this issue?

    o Read 1 Corinthians 16:14. How will a motive of love help you decide what do? Ask the question, “What is most loving in this situation?”

    o Read Proverbs 15:22. Have your small group ask you about this situation and think of some questions you can ask them. From that discussion, what do you sense God is saying to you about this situation?

  • What is the difference between fighting for unity in things that are essential biblical truth and things that are considered non-essentials? How can you engage in difficult conversations with love and kindness without compromising biblical truth or your convictions?

Take a Step

  • Is there a conversation you need to have? How can you prepare your heart for the conversation so you approach them with a posture of humility and unity?
  • SOAP reading: Download the Grace Honolulu app to view this week’s SOAP reading. It’s in the “Bible” section at the bottom banner of the app.

Here’s My Prayer

Father, thank You for showing us how to live in unity with each other. Help me to fight for the right things, the right way. Keep my heart humble as I grow in my ability to love and listen to others.