Navigating Theological Disagreements in Ministry (cont.)
4. Does your church leadership welcome the disagreement?
Church leaders might be aware of—and okay with—the disagreement. For example, I consider Pre-Tribulation/Post-Tribulation an issue that doesn’t require 100% agreement by a staff. Of course, you might feel differently. But your staff may have already decided to “agree to disagree” on some secondary issues.
It’s not that people don’t feel those issues are important. They just don’t feel that disagreement on those issues should keep them from serving together. That’s a different story than if the issue is part of your church’s statement of faith.
5. Does the theological disagreement make you feel like you can’t serve at this church?
At times—in good conscience—you might feel like you can’t remain at your church, given the discrepancy. Don’t make this decision lightly or without lots of wise counsel. But if you feel like you need to move on, be 100% honest and transparent with leadership. Then leave well.
Don’t go all Martin Luther on your church (“Here I stand; I can do no other”) over a secondary issue. Rather, pave a road for someone else to take your mantle of leadership. If it really is a secondary theological issue, there’s no reason you can’t leave well. Then ask God to bless that church, even though you feel you can’t serve there anymore.
Do you have advice for navigating theological disagreements in ministry? Please share tips in the comments below.
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