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Explore the relationship between Christianity and tolerance, understanding how Christian teachings advocate for respecting differing viewpoints while upholding absolute truths, reflecting grace and humility as taught in the gospel.

Understanding Tolerance and Christianity

Tolerance today is often misunderstood as an acceptance of all views as equally valid. However, this is a departure from the historical understanding of tolerance, which involves respecting and allowing differing viewpoints, not necessarily agreeing with them. Christianity, in its true essence, calls for a distinction between beliefs and persons. We are to respect all individuals as bearers of God’s image, despite disagreements in beliefs. This principle is anchored in the scriptural admonition to live peaceably with all, as emphasized in Romans 12:18.

The Nature of Christian Truth

Christianity asserts its belief in absolute truths, which includes the belief that some viewpoints are incorrect. This does not make Christianity intolerant. Rather, it upholds the existence of objective truth, a concept that tolerance itself presupposes. It is essential to recognize that while Christianity holds to absolute truths, it also acknowledges that non-Christians may have insights into some aspects of truth. The Christian faith does not claim a monopoly on all truth but rather on the truth about ultimate reality as revealed in Jesus Christ and the scriptures.

Levels of Tolerance in Christianity

Tolerance operates on different levels. Ecclesiastically, the church may not tolerate certain behaviors among its members, like adultery, as these are contrary to Christian teaching. However, this ecclesiastical stance does not translate to a call for legal intolerance in broader society. The distinction between personal, ecclesiastical, and legal tolerance is crucial in understanding the Christian approach to societal issues.

Grace, Humility, and the Gospel

Christianity condemns arrogance and self-righteousness. The essence of the gospel is grace and humility. Christians understand themselves as recipients of God’s grace, sharing this gift with others without a sense of superiority. This approach is rooted in the recognition that all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23) and that our standing before God is not based on personal merit but on divine grace through faith in Christ.

Inclusivity and Exclusivity of the Gospel

The gospel of Christ is inclusive in its invitation and exclusive in its claims. While Christianity asserts that salvation is found exclusively in Christ (Acts 4:12), this offer of salvation is extended to all humanity. This paradox of inclusivity and exclusivity underscores the Christian commitment to truth and grace. The inclusivity of the gospel is not at the expense of its truth claims but is a manifestation of God’s love for all people.

Engaging with Non-Christian Views

Christian engagement with non-Christian views should be marked by respect and a willingness to listen. Dialogue and discussion are encouraged, but with the understanding that agreement on all points is not necessary for respectful interaction. Christianity teaches its adherents to engage with differing viewpoints with a spirit of love and humility, reflecting Christ’s attitude.

Conclusion: Balancing Truth and Tolerance

In conclusion, Christianity, when rightly understood and practiced, is not intolerant in the negative sense often portrayed in contemporary discourse. It upholds the existence of absolute truth while advocating for respect and love towards those with differing views. The Christian call to tolerance is not a call to abandon truth but to uphold it in a manner that reflects the love, grace, and humility exemplified in Jesus Christ.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).