Is it possible to differ with our brethren and love them still? Is it possible to stand strongly and uncompromisingly for what we believe us right, in opposition to brethren who stand just as strongly for opposing methods and love them just as greatly as if they agreed with us?
How often we see this demonstrated in legislative bodies of the world. I have watched the Congress of the United States, and the Parliament of Great Britain in operation and have seen men on opposing sides earnestly contend for what they believe to be right. They became even vehement in their discussions, but at the end of the debate I have seen these same men leave the chamber arm in arm, evincing their warm personal friendship.
On the other hand, I have seen professed Christians become so incensed and stirred in debate that they became personal enemies. What a contrast and what a shame to the Christian profession.
"One test of Christianity, of the power of Christ's grace in the heart, is to be able to differ with others earnestly but kindly, to contend for principles and not involve men in the confrontation. Let us always distinguish between men and principles, and even if we abhor the principles and feel that we must denounce them, let us love the men who hold the principles. In this way only can we win for Christ those with whom we associate."
F. M. Wilcox wrote this for the Adventist Review, January 13, 1938.
