Balanced Christianity

So, when we resist change, whether in church or society, we need to ask whether in reality it is Scripture we are defending (as it is our custom stoutly to insist) or rather some cherished tradition of the ecclesiastical elders or of our cultural heritage. This is not to say that all traditions, simply because they are traditional, must at all costs be swept away. Uncritical iconoclasm is as stupid as uncritical conservatism, and is sometimes more dangerous. What I am emphasizing is that no tradition may be invested with a kind of diplomatic immunity to examination. No special privilege may be claimed for it.

Well, we fragment over what we regard as issues of principle – but often the real reason is personal, isn’t it? When we’re afraid, we withdraw into our own fellowships and ghettos where we feel secure with like-minded people. I’m aware of that fear in myself; it’s part of our basic human insecurity. We’re looking for contexts in which we can be supported rather than questioned.