In his blog post today, Haters in the Church, Steven speaks passionately about those who criticize rather than celebrate the success, style and substance of other ministries in the broader body of Christ. While this video was designed for a new teaching series, Honorology, at Elevation, it's possible that its poignant release speaks to a much larger debate currently happening in the evangelical community - specifically the Rob Bell controversy.
The soon-release of Bell's new book, Love Wins, has spawned a hater-heyday among evangelical leaders and theologians. This twitter-sphere tornado - the likes of which only Charlie Sheen can comprehend, centers around a theological brouhaha regarding Bell's potential parting with the orthodox view of heaven, hell and universalism. The questions raised in the books promotional video seem to suggest to some that Bell has already said too much by simply posing provocative questions, indicating an obvious break with orthodoxy.
While I believe most have jumped the gun on criticizing, even convicting Bell based solely on what could turn out to be just a brilliant marketing strategy, I disagree with Furtick's assumption that anyone within the church body that challenges another be classified a "hater."
Consider this:
+Was Jesus a "hater" when he publicly denounced the Pharisees and called them a brood of vipers.
+Was Paul a "hater" when he challenged false teachers in the church and called them evil.
+Was Peter a "hater" when he disagreed with the church leadership at the Jerusalem Council.
I think not. In fact, these confrontation moments proved to define current church theology and culture.
I, too, believe in honor. Much like Furtick, I, too, want to be known more for what I am for, not for what I'm against. But it's equally important to honor the Gospel, as well. The fact of the matter is that there is a time to speak a word of challenge and confrontation into the lives of others, even church leaders. Why not call a spade a spade? Why not, when someone makes a clear break with orthodoxy, shouldn't others within the body of Christ call them on it in hopes of restoration?
It seems to me that this was the early practice of the New Testament church. History tells us that confrontation, even church confrontation and criticism can be constructive. The Bible clearly teaches that as "iron sharpens iron, so shall one man sharpen another." So when the sparks fly and the anvil heats up, something better can emerge.
You've got to rise above the cynics and critics. Don't stoop to their level and become a hater of haters. Love your haters. Learn from your haters. Lead your haters to Jesus.
