It is easier for churches to reach out in clear ministries of compassion than it is to become involved in the controversies that are highly charged emotionally. Yet it is difficult to believe that those who follow Jesus, who was crucified for his beliefs, could avoid controversy and still be faithful to their Lord.
It is not easy to reconcile Jesus’ call to take up our cross and follow him with the pressure to not become involved in issues that might upset and divide people. Highland’s history is filled with people getting upset with the church’s involvement in controversial issues and resigning from offices or leaving the church. Yet through it all, Highland continues to experience that they are more united as a Body by their belief in Jesus Christ than they are divided by their differing opinions on any particular issue. It is a continuing struggle to decide whether Jesus is Lord or whether some particular stand on an issue takes priority over staying united with those whom Christ has called into the Body.
While the issue was race in the 60’s and 70’s, the issue was homosexuality in the 80’s and 90’s. The church, all across the nation in all denominations whether the churches saw themselves as conservative or liberal, was confronted with its response to homosexuality. Highland was no exception. When an organization called “Parents of Lesbians and Gays” (P-Flag) asked to meet in Highland’s building, they clearly felt this was the compassionate thing to do and gave their permission. Yet in early 1990, when Jane Spaugh, a Presbyterian pastor who was open about the fact that she was gay, came to speak in Winston-Salem, the Session was unwilling to allow her to speak at Highland.
While they have learned that a number of families within the congregation have gay members in their families and that some of their members are also gay, they have been unable to come to a consensus as to their response to the issue of homosexuality. The fear of controversy continues to hang like a shadow over the capacity of Highland to openly discuss issues over which their members hold sharp opinions.
Like Peter, when he learned that a decision of Jesus to go to Jerusalem might mean conflict, the church often wants to draw back and take a safer route. Yet, as with the disciples, the Lord continues to speak to them in loving tones inviting them to respond in faith.
Well put, Steve. I believe your particular church experience speaks to the larger church’s struggle as well. My hope and prayer is that we’ll focus not on our fears but our convictions; and not what makes us different from one another but on the things we have in common. Namely, our relationship with Christ.