It has been a long time since I’ve done this. In some ways too long. Over the past year I have wrestled with the existence of my blog, coinciding with the existence of a facebook account. In essence I was questioning whether either existed as simply a means to fulfill the narcissistic yearnings of one engaged in different aspects of social media. I have recently taken solace in the fact that only one or two people have ever read this blog with any intentionality, and as such I couldn’t possibly be doing this simply out of the pursuit for admiration. More seriously, as I have once again resumed studying, I feel the need to be able to download some of what is floating around in my head, in the hopes that my thoughts might become somewhat more intelligible.
Recently in my studies of the history of Christianity, I have been struck by the centrality and importance of the figures who stood in opposition to the established church and were subsequently labelled heretics. Their importance is perhaps most evident in their roles in shaping the content of the reform that was to come. The Reformation looms large as one of the most pivotal moments in the history of the church, forever changing the landscape of Western Christianity, and whose after effects are still being felt even today. Yet it is interesting to note, even amongst denominations that owe their existence to such “heretics”, a fear of questioning.
I would argue the existence of such a fear is often met with simple repression, or a type of forced ignorance. And at times it seems as though there exists an ethos in which uncertainty is not accepted nor tolerated. Intellectual exploration of anything other than what is prescribed is also frowned upon and even deemed to be a dangerous pursuit.
I can’t help but look back at these heretical figures (or once heretical figures) and wonder at their conviction and courage. I understand their contexts differ significantly from our own, but it seems prudent that in light of what we know of history we might show a little grace to those who hold a belief different than out own, or whose ideas fall outside our understanding of orthodoxy. Only in discussion with them can we truly come to any understanding of their perspective, and where it might meet or diverge from our own. Simply reacting in opposition does little for anyone. Let’s have some informed discussion and facilitate an ethos in which it is safe for both questions and uncertainty. Maybe we can escape the need for any further reformations.
