How should a Christian engage in opinionated discussion?
Discussion question for April 23, 2010.
Opinionated discussion, sometimes called argument, can polarize or solidify relationships. What can you do to create the right “heart attitude” when you disagree with another person? What role does apologetics play in your everyday life? How can you establish godly goals for these exchanges of ideologies?
Here’s my summary of our discussion.
An opinionated discussion must revolve around the persons involved in the discussion and not the opinion or beliefs, otherwise they tend to be divisive instead of constructive. There is an absolute truth, but no human has comprehensive understanding of it nor can one possess it. For that reason, we should engage in apologetics or arguments specifically to interrogate our beliefs and replace misunderstanding with Truth.
An argument that defends a position will be polarizing. An argument that explores the beliefs and opinions can lead to identifying the core value being held and the motive for holding it. For instance, it is much more effective to ask questions to expose motive than it is to question data or interpretations of same. A person may change the value they hold if the motive for holding it is proven to be weak.
As Christians, we must let the Holy Spirit direct the conversation. No one is able to receive the truth of God by argument or coercion. Instead, the Spirit woos and convicts. Then the heart is ready to accept the truth.
As Christians, we must also recognize that God “sends a deluding influence” that confounds the worldly-wise, but reveals His truth to the heart of the worldly-simple. No matter how much one studies the opposing argument, or finds fault with their logic or conclusions, a polarized discussion will not lead either side closer to Truth.
The purpose of discussion should be to glorify God, not to destroy or defend a person.