BradHoffmann.com

In a faith full of opinions, I think there are some essentials – really important doctrines. Some stuff we’ll always debate, disagree and dispute. You think one way and I consider another. I feel there’s a degree of value in difference. Even in my denomination, there’s significant discussion about the growing influence of Calvinism. While that’s not my label, I’ll still make room at my table for one of a more reformed faith. We’ll disagree on some things, but we’ll agree on the essentials. That’s where we focus. Believe it or not, there’s a lot of stuff that just doesn’t matter that much in the big scheme of things. We get all tied up with non-essential arguments while making a big deal about insignificant stuff. Disagreement over non-essentials has the tendency to foster division. I’m weary of the brothers fighting about the role of women in the church, Bible versions, worship styles, eschatology, traditions, models, dress, tattoos, agendas, creation, speaking in tongues, baptism, governance, property and the list goes on. Christ followers don’t need more division; we need focus on the essentials. So what exactly is essential? Only that of salvific quality is crucial. Anything not relating directly to salvation is lesser.  I think you’ll find the essentials are basic; it’s the stuff of simple faith. Never lose sight of Jesus and His work. That’s what I like about “This I Believe” by Hillsong. It’s about the basics and a good reminder of what matters most. All the rest, well, pales in comparison.