Distinctive, yet Unified

God’s people have always been called to be different, holy and distinctive. 1 Peter 1:15-16 tells us to, “…be holy, because [God] is holy.” 2 Corinthians 6:17 reminds us to, “…come out…and be separate…” The love of God has also always been inclusive. “[God] wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:4) Romans 5:8 tells us, “…God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Distinction and exclusion are two very different concepts, one Godly, the other, divisive.

Exclusion comes from “…[loving] to be first…” (3 John). From arrogance springs gossip, division, factions, suspicions, hate, disrespect and falling away from the truth (1 John 2:11). Narrow definitions, opinions or greed are the marks of the one who wants exclusion. The one who rejects others often uses qualitative terms in the Bible, however they supply quantitative definitions. Words which are apt to be misused include; commitment, pride, zeal, worship, etc... The exclusionary sets himself up to be the holder of truth and canonizes his vision as God's vision.