It was not Abraham Lincoln but Jesus Himself who first said, “a house divided against itself will not stand” (Mt. 12:25). Jesus spoke these words against the accusation that He was casting out demons by the power of the devil. Lincoln cited this passage in a senatorial debate against Stephen Douglas, arguing against new states deciding for themselves whether they would become a slave or free state. Lincoln believed that such a policy would perpetuate division and threaten the well-being of the nation.
At present, we are a nation greatly divided. Intensifying rhetoric can only make things worse. Spewing hate merely because of the way someone has voted is un-American. More than that – it is unchristian. We cannot read the thoughts and intentions of others. Only God can do that (1 Cor. 2:11). Just as we desire others to attribute to our actions the best possible motives, so we must attribute to others the same (Mt. 7:12). Labels serve only to further divide us.
Admittedly, the substance of many of the issues that divide us are at opposite ends of the moral and political spectrum. We are best-advised to treat others with love and respect as we untangle genuine issues from exaggerations and sound bites. When possible, these issues need to be exposed to the light of truth for acceptance or rejection (Eph. 5:11). “Come now, let us reason together…” is a noble objective (Isa. 1:18). But, some will not reason. The influence of darkness and Satan are broadly-felt across every divisive issue (Jn. 3:19; 2 Cor. 4:4). But, we cannot fight fire with fire; but must overcome evil with good (Rm.12:21). Revenge is not a sustainable force for good (Rm. 12:19). We must do all we can do to “speak the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15).
Feeling threatened, some will become our enemies. But, even then, Jesus says, “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…” (Mt. 5:44). Don’t forget that enemies can become friends. After all, “while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son…” (Rm. 5:10).
— Glen Elliott —