Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. (The Apostle Paul in Philemon 1:8-9)

In the last few years social media has emboldened many people to speak up on current issues who would otherwise just watch from the sidelines. Though this can be a good thing, it has also opened the door to misunderstandings, confusion, and increased division among believers. Even sincere Christians can get caught up in sending out sensational sound-bites and mocking memes in order to make their point.

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Though it is certainly good that more believers are finding their voice to speak their convictions, I would suggest considering the Apostle Paul’s admonition to appeal to those who are wandering in the dark, rather than to attack their views. We can’t force a decision upon someone we disagree with and must learn the art of appealing to their conscience if we truly love them.

Things in this nation, and in the Church, are not going to change long-term until mindsets change. We won’t change anyone’s mind until we reach their heart. When someone is holding fast to an ungodly belief system or skewed perception of God, they are usually convinced they are right. Our job is to help them change their mind. Our response should cause them to think twice before arriving at a conclusion. If we want to champion God’s Word as the standard for all life and governance, we need to be thoroughly equipped and prepared to lead people to the truth rather than forcing them to accept our version of it.

Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. (2 Timothy 2:23-26)

As we engage with others in this politically divisive culture, I would like to offer several key principles in appealing to those walking in the dark:

1. Value them as human beings. Rather than assuming they are purposely trying to deceive others, approach them as individuals who simply may not have all the information needed to make an informed decision. Respect them as fellow citizens and purpose to hear them out before assuming you know what they mean.
2. Value their perspective. Take the time to ask questions and hear their story. You will usually find that they have a reason for what they believe. One of the most powerful tools in building bridges with others is to validate their concerns. Do you know what they are? Can you give credence to any good points they may bring up, even if it leads to a different conclusion than yours?
3. Present them with new and valid information. Those who are locked in a limited or unhealthy perspective need a different outlook. We can’t do this by merely reciting our own opinions, but must present valid information with proven fruit that backs up our belief. Especially when appealing to a fellow believer, the Word of God must be the anchor of any and all truth. We may need to do more homework so that we don’t simply throw out a verse or two to prove our point. When we understand Kingdom principles and their broader application, we can bring others up to a higher vantage point for a larger vision and bigger purpose.

We can’t pray for someone we openly judge or criticize. If we sense an underlying demonic influence at work, we need to separate the spiritual warfare from the individual being deceived. The god of this age has blinded hearts and minds and most people under attack don’t even realize it. This is why it is critical to appeal to their hearts so they can see the lie for themselves and break the enemy’s hold of their own free will.

Lastly, as the Adversary continues to advance his cause to stir up division and strife in the nation and in the Church, we must determine to focus on those issues that are core and central to our faith. This is what will bring the greatest oneness to the Body of Christ and authority in our prayers. Some issues of interpretation and personal preference may need to be pushed to the back burner until we can agree on the non-negotiables of our faith.

Let’s pray that we can work through our differences and call each other higher into God’s plans and purposes. Let’s pray for those who are being blinded and deceived, that the Spirit would draw them to the truth. Let’s pray that we might be conduits of reconciliation and have the same grace the Apostle Paul did to appeal to others in a way that will have collective impact on the earth.