A Biblical Approach to Addressing Doctrinal Differences with Christian Ethics
In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become a common space for theological debates, often marked by personal attacks rather than constructive dialogue. When Christians encounter ministers or teachings they believe to be in error, the temptation to publicly shame or vilify can overshadow the biblical call to love, humility, and truth. Scripture provides clear guidance on how to approach doctrinal differences with grace and integrity, ensuring that our pursuit of truth aligns with Christian ethics. Below is a biblically inspired framework for addressing such differences.
1. Examine Your Heart and Motives
Before addressing perceived false doctrine, Christians must first examine their own hearts. Jesus warns against judging others while ignoring personal faults: “Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3, ESV). Approaching doctrinal disputes with pride or a desire to “win” undermines the gospel’s call to humility.
Ask yourself: Is my goal to glorify God, edify the church, and seek truth, or am I driven by anger, self-righteousness, or a need to be seen as correct? Proverbs 16:2 reminds us, “All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit.” Prayerful self-examination ensures our motives align with God’s desire for unity and truth.
2. Pursue Truth with Humility
The pursuit of sound doctrine is vital, as Paul instructs Timothy to “preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching” (2 Timothy 4:2). However, this pursuit must be tempered with humility. No one possesses perfect understanding, and even well-meaning believers can err. As Paul writes, “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully” (1 Corinthians 13:12).
When addressing doctrinal differences, approach the conversation as a learner open to correction. This humility fosters dialogue rather than division, reflecting the spirit of Proverbs 18:13: “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.”
3. Engage Privately Before Publicly
A lot of the attacks on social media are hit pieces against people. As believers in Christ, we can expect persecution from the world, but we should not expect prosecution from fellow believers.
Scripture emphasizes resolving disputes discreetly before escalating them. Jesus outlines a process for addressing sin in Matthew 18:15-17: “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.” While this passage addresses personal sin, the principle applies to doctrinal concerns, especially when dealing with a minister or teacher.
Before posting a public critique on social media, attempt to engage the individual privately through respectful communication. This approach not only honors the person’s dignity but also prevents unnecessary public division in the body of Christ. Public confrontation, when necessary, should be a last resort, undertaken with great care and prayer.
If you do not have a personal relationship with or communication with the teacher or preacher, don’t listen to them, and don’t support their ministry.
The disciples saw someone using the name of Jesus, the authority of heaven and earth, to cleanse people tormented by demons. “Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.” (Mark 9:38)
They were more concerned about the sectarian positions rather than the hell that people were experiencing.
“Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “For no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us.” (Mark 9:39)
4. Speak the Truth in Love
When correction is needed, it must be delivered with love. Ephesians 4:15 instructs believers to “speak the truth in love,” growing into maturity in Christ. Harsh or mocking rhetoric, even if doctrinally accurate, can wound rather than heal. Paul’s example in his letters, such as his gentle correction of the Corinthians or his respectful tone toward the Galatians despite their errors, models this balance.
On social media, where tone is easily misconstrued, choose words that reflect Christ’s compassion. Avoid ad hominem attacks that target a person’s character rather than their teaching. As 1 Peter 3:15-16 advises, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”
5. Prioritize the Unity of the Body
Doctrinal differences, while serious, should not fracture the unity of Christ’s body. Jesus prayed for believers to be one, “so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:21). Public attacks on ministers, especially when done carelessly, can sow discord and discredit the gospel in the eyes of unbelievers.
This does not mean ignoring error—Paul confronted false teaching boldly (Galatians 1:6-9). However, his goal was to protect and unify the church, not to shame individuals for personal gain. Consider how your words impact the broader Christian witness when addressing doctrinal issues. Aim to build up, not tear down, the body of Christ. Also, realize that Paul was an established Apostle and addressed people he had established in the faith. His letters were addressed to people whom he had the authority to cover.
6. Trust God’s Authority to Rule
Finally, rest in the knowledge that God is sovereign over His church. While we are called to contend for the faith (Jude 1:3), the ultimate responsibility for correcting error and guiding the church belongs to the Holy Spirit. Publicly attacking a minister may not always be the most effective or godly approach. Instead, pray fervently for those in error, entrusting them to God’s correction and grace (1 Timothy 2:1-4).
I’ve written a book, The Centurion Principle: The Protocol of Authority, which teaches that your position of authority empowers you to govern what you are over. However, God will not speak around established authority. God does not gossip, slander, or correct outside of His protocol of authority.
Conclusion
Addressing doctrinal differences is a weighty responsibility that requires discernment, humility, and love. Rather than resorting to personal attacks on social media, Christians should follow biblical principles: examine their motives, pursue truth humbly, engage privately when possible, speak lovingly, prioritize unity, and trust God’s sovereignty. Doing so, we honor Christ, uphold truth, and reflect the gospel’s transformative power in a watching world. Let us heed Paul’s charge: “Let all that you do be done in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14).
