1️⃣ Values Diversity
Theological Maturity no longer frames its differences from others as caveats to its affinity or affection.
The theologically mature can replace statements such as “I don’t agree with his theology, BUT I respect him anyway.” with “I don’t share her theology, AND I respect her.”
The theologically mature no longer respect and have affection for others *in spite* of their doctrinal and denominational differences, but rather BECAUSE of them.
With theological maturity comes a value for the diversity of the Church and a determination to see and savor that diversity in all of its beautiful forms.
It is the theologically mature that recognize the great value in our differences and the innumerable lessons we all have to learn from each other.
2️⃣ Performs Triage
Theological Maturity doesn’t “major in the minors.”
The theologically mature don’t make primary mountains out of their secondary molehills and they don’t draw battle lines around their own opinions and perspectives.
The theologically mature don’t hunt witches and they don’t spend their time making a pseudo form of “discernment” an event in the Religious Olympics.
With theological maturity comes the realization that the preservation of primary things is dismantled by “crying wolf” over every thing that isn’t a threat but rather an inconvenience to their sensibilities.
3️⃣ Is Committed to Good Faith Conversations
Theological Maturity has no interest in antagonizing their siblings in Christ or patronizing the world.
The theologically mature know the difference between debate and argument and they know how to disagree with honor, believing the best of others and desiring good.
The theologically mature are not passive aggressive (or aggressive) and their dialogue with others leaves their integrity intact, displaying a capacity for productive discussion.
With theological maturity comes understanding of the futility of insults and illogical arguments and a genuine curiosity about others that prevents one from resorting to the childishness of underhanded arguments.
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