Theological Neutrality

(the Y is not the only institution that fits this way of thought, crisis pregnancy centers, rescue missions are two that come to mind, but they usually lack the "heft" of the Y)

I was talking with my friend Brian this weekend about the culture at his YMCA versus mine. We talked mostly about the spirit side of the Y triangle, visible reflections like scripture on the walls, attitudinal reflections like loving and serving the members, and about connections to the larger Christian community. I’m always glad to share how blessed we are that so many churches, with varying opinions on baptism, spiritual gifts, styles of worship and other things, can come together through the vehicle of the YMCA to do great things for our community and for the Kingdom. My friend called it “theological neutrality” and I love the term.

We aren’t looking for people to be neutral in a way that makes their faith lukewarm or compromises what they believe. Rather we want people to avoid “majoring on the minors”, and focus on the commonality of their faith instead of the things that separate them. It works and the results can be amazing.

The Bible is filled with exhortations to be in one accord and to live in harmony with one another. Probably because people have always had a hard time doing it! But things that are against our nature can sometimes be the most important. Why not apply this principle to all aspects of your life? Find the commonality with your neighbors, coworkers and your family members. Find a spot of neutrality and work together to do bigger things than you could ever do alone.


Thanks for all you do.

Brian