Dangers of Black and White Convictions in Areas of Gray

I don’t have a verse of the day. But this is something I’ve been giving much thought to lately.

We live in a world where we are so divided that we are no longer able to speak with one another nor hear one another. Spouses, friends, families are no longer able to speak about some things because we are so far apart on our convictions. We are so convinced we are right that anyone who doesn’t see the world the way we see the world are wrong.

There is nothing wrong with convictions. They are good and necessary. But when we place convictions on things that ought to be beliefs, we get into trouble.

There are things that are black and white:

• For instance, things that are black or white. Black is black. It is either black or it is not.
• Or, God is God. That’s it. There are no other options.

But not all things are black and white. In fact, most of the world and issues we deal with are not black and white. They are all kinds of shades of gray. That’s why we use the language – “Here’s what I think…” “This is what I believe…” But when we use language that way, we are also saying this is what I think to the best of my ability with the knowledge and information I currently possess. AND I am open to being corrected given better information.

When we use black and white convictions in the area of gray…well…that’s just foolish.

So what are things that are gray? I am glad you asked. Anything other than the essentials (Jesus is the only way to God, God is God and we are not, the Bible is the only authority, etc.) fall into the category of gray. For instance:

• Modes of baptism – dunking, pouring, sprinkling
• Forms of worship – contemporary, traditional
• Women in leadership
• Denominations
• Etc.

One of the reasons why I think our country is so divided and we are so unable to speak and hear one another is because we keep using the language and attitude of conviction in areas that are gray.

When a person is absolutely convinced they are right, then anyone who sees the world differently is wrong. That is perfectly fine in things that are black and white. But, in the areas that are gray…that’s just sad…for the person who’s convinced they are right and for everyone around them.

There are things that belong in the black and white category. Jesus is the only way to salvation. God is God and we are not. The Bible is the only authority. But pretty much everything else belongs in the shades of gray and it is inappropriate to attach black and white convictions.