WHAT'S MY ATTITUDE?

By Charles N. Spence, Jr.

“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself” (Phi. 2:3).

Have you ever run into this kind of person who says, "You are not being considerate of me; I won't have anything to do with you!" There are plenty of people like this in the world, but certainly such is not to be named among the brethren. When I read God's word, it tells me what my attitude should be, especially toward my brethren. Even in cases where we disagree, we must display an attitude that reflects the gentleness of Christ (Matt. 11:29). We can take the course of the world (Gal. 5:19; 1 Cor. 3:3) or we can take the course that Jesus trod (Phi. 1:5-8). Our attitude should be, "What is in the best interest of my brethren? What can I do to be one and at peace with them? What is fast becoming prevalent with some brethren is the attitude that says, "Well, if things aren't going MY way, I will go some place else." Such a one is harboring a mind of the world. Such a one is demonstrating that he has not been crucified with Christ and is dead to the world. Paul says in Galatians 6:14, "But may it never be that I should boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified unto me, and I unto the world. "

When brethren disagree, what should be their attitude toward each other? The Bible has plenty to say about the treatment of brethren toward brethren. I mentioned earlier the need to exercise gentleness. In answering matters of disagreement as to certain charges waged against him, Paul approached the brethren in Corinth with an attitude that exemplified a Christ-like character (Read 2 Cor. 10:1-18). Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22). Brethren must be gentle in their approach to settling disagreements and let downs (Gal. 6:1). Also, as brought out in 2 Corinthians 10:8, Paul took his stand upon the word of God to settle any disputes among them. In the context, God's word was the weapon of choice in dealing with disagreements and disputes (2 Cor. 10:3-5). Those who would try to settle matters with proud posturing, vain threats, bitterness, strife, biting and devouring are warring according to the flesh (James 3:13-15). Such devices are often used when void of the truth of God's word. Often such ill attitudes are typical of those who insist that their opinions, feelings, personal beliefs, and "I think so's" be accepted as binding truths upon everyone else. Such would be fine, if those who have such strong sentiments are able to take a stand upon God's word. But, without the force of Scripture, a person's belief, no matter how strongly they feel about it, is simply that: a belief based upon feeling. Though the Bible is clear in regard to how brethren are to treat one another in matters of indifference (Rom. 14), evidently some brethren are not willing to abide in the teaching of Christ. Some would impose a practice upon others simply because it happens to be what they believe and practice themselves. However, Paul is clear, "For we are not bold to class or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves, but when they measure themselves by themselves, and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding (2 Cor. 10:12). We can only measure others with that which God has given (2 Cor. 10:13; James 4:11-12).

You know, I am tickled by religious folk who feel strongly about a practice or who passionately oppose a practice, yet they cannot defend their position with Scripture. Some with whom we study get so upset that they cancel the study and take up name-calling. This is all because they cannot defend their position with Scripture. So they want their feelings to prevail. This is certainly understandable with the denominational person because he is not a disciple of Jesus. But when such an attitude is present in those who are supposed to be Jesus’ disciples, one can only wonder if they truly have been crucified with Christ.

In regard to matters of judgment, I understand when a brother feels strongly about a practice in which he cannot participate; I will not judge him. But at the same time, if there is no Scripture prohibiting the practice, he cannot judge me if he happens to learn that I have engaged in such a practice (Rom. 14:3). If the brother considers such a matter of faith himself, notice what the Bible says in Romans 14:22, "The faith which you have, have as your own conviction before God." Keep in mind that in matters of opinion we are to receive one another (Rom. 14:1). To receive me does not make you are a party to whatever liberty I exercise. But you receive me in spite of it. That is the fruit of AGAPE love. The only basis you have for refusing me is found in 2 John 9-11. Unless you can prove that my liberty is a violation of Scripture, you MUST accept me. You display a wrong attitude if you don't, and thus judge the law (James 4:11). Also keep in mind that matters of indifference are issues that apply to individual activities. Such are not issues of congregational activity for in such matters we all must agree (1 Cor. 1:10). A bad attitude is displayed when one would leave a congregation for another over individual liberty when such does not affect the congregation as a unit.

In conclusion, I must always be concerned with demonstrating the kind of attitude that is reflective of the Lord Jesus Christ in my life. We are sure to have disagreements; how we handle them is the key toward displaying the frame of mind we are in. "Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus." In matters of faith, we must have unity; in matters of liberty, peace; and in all things love. Is this your attitude?