Agreeing to Disagree Agreeably – Jim Fowler

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Oh, the disastrous and diabolic examples of animosity and even outright murder among those who were unable to agree to disagree agreeably. That this should occur among those who claim to be identified with Christ is most mis-representative and abominable. Disagreement is inevitable in the myriad of opinions held by mankind. Agreeing to disagree may be a magnanimous gesture of avoidance of conflict. But agreeing to disagree agreeably with continuing respect and love of persons in whom Christ dwells is a supernatural action of God’s grace wherein the unity of Christian fellowship is maintained and exhibited.

“There occurred a sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas, and they separated from one another, with Barnabas taking John Mark with him and sailing away to Cyprus” (Acts 15:39), while Paul took Silas and traveled through the Galatian region before taking the gospel to Europe. Theirs was not a disagreement over teaching content, but over the advisability or inadvisability of taking Mark, the “quitter,” on a mission trip, thereby resulting in a multiplication of the ministry of the gospel. We must not become so settled and fixed in our opinions, allowing for no variation or discrepancy. Both opinions can often be accommodated. It is often insecurity of what we believe and where we stand that disallows for agreeable disagreement.

A statement variously attributed to numerous Christian thinkers, but traceable to a tract written by Rupert Meldenius (c. 1627) encapsulates the spirit of amicable disagreement. “In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things love.” The French philosopher, Voltaire (1694-1778) is quoted as declaring, “I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend with my life your right to say it.” Voltaire influenced the thinking of those who drafted the U.S. Constitution, allowing for the latitude of opinions in the first amendment “freedom of speech” clause in our United States constitutional republic.

Jim Fowler

Jim Fowler is a cherished and respected friend of Plain Truth Ministries, a wonderful brother in Christ, having served in a variety of capacities, on our Board of Directors, as a theological consultant and as an author and editor.  He continues to write, with his latest being “Manifesting the Life of Jesus” available on Amazon.  Jim is a treasure to the body of Christ, a Christ follower who faithfully reflects God’s grace in Jesus, as our risen Lord lives his life within him.