Church history demonstrates how believers were intolerant in the face of injustice and changed the world. Even in our nation, African Americans are free because of the intolerance of believers, many of whom were Abolitionists and Freedom Riders – both Black & White. God’s Word does not directly deal with the subject of intolerance, but it does give ample examples of believers who were intolerant of injustice and immorality.
We can learn valuable lessons from an incident in the Apostle Paul’s ministry that is very illustrative. In Galatians 2:11-14, three lessons are apparent. First, great religious and political personalities, even loved ones in our families, can be wrong. Second, our theology prepares us to recognize hypocrisy in the lives of believers as well as blatant satanic reasoning in the lives of unbelievers. And finally, speaking the truth can be a lonely, unpopular encounter. I dare say that the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. was energized by this biblical example.
As believers, we have been empowered by the Spirit of God along with the knowledge of Scripture. If there is anyone in the world who can make a moral difference at any time and in any place, it is a Christian. Some of us have different levels of influence. This doesn’t matter. What matters is that each one of us live consistently with God’s Word and be led by God’s Spirit in our daily encounters with everyone. Regrettably, many Christians have become tolerant of injustice as well as immoral behavior.
By definition, tolerance is a fair, objective, and permissive attitude towards those whose opinions, practices, race, religion, nationality, etc., differ from one’s own; it is freedom from bigotry. It is a liberal, undogmatic viewpoint. There are parts of this definition that we can all agree with. However, for the most part, inherent in our faith is a healthy intolerance with what is happening all around us. Consider, for example, what Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount in the Gospel of Matthew. “You have heard it said …, but I say unto you …” This did not make Him very popular. But it was necessary because when people think and believe wrong, they act wrong. From nearly every quarter, we are told not only to tolerate what others are doing, but it is politically correct to accept and even celebrate how others decide to believe and live their lives.
There are several things to remember about the satanic and unchristian effect of the world’s understanding of what it means to be tolerant. This type of tolerance diminishes justice, weakens our courage and conviction, and skews constructive compassion.
It is only natural that we celebrate those who have demonstrated a healthy intolerance in the face of racism, injustice, and economic inequalities. Nelson Mandela, Dr. King, Mother Teresa, and others come to mind. You too can make a difference in your sphere of influence. Back in the day, we sang a song entitled “Brighten the Corner Where You Are.” In every encounter we experience with injustice and/or immorality, we can either be tolerate or speak truth to culture. “Be bold – be strong – for the Lord, thy God, is with thee.” Now go and make a difference!
Rev. Olah L. Moore