Jacob Robertson

The doctrinal diversity within the Christian faith is wide to say the least. This diversity, in some cases, is unnecessarily growing (much to the disappointment of more orthodox Christians) to include completely bizarre, extra-biblical, and progressive theologies. With all of this diversity in belief and practice, how do you determine what hills to die on? How do you separate the wheat from the chaff? And how much latitude should reasonably be given to other believers whose beliefs and understanding of Scripture differ from our own. Theological triage is a relatively new term that acts as a construct and method of differentiating issues that are central to the gospel from those that are denominational distinctives, or even preferential. In medicine, triage means to conduct a preliminary assessment of patients or casualties in order to determine the urgency of their need for treatment and the nature of treatment required (Oxford Dictionary). One of the challenges in determining what hills to die on is balancing doctrinal sectarianism with doctrinal minimalism. Surface-level unity at the expense of a fundamental and clear theology as outlined is Scripture is never appropriate and is a common danger. However, on the other hand, an arrogance and cage-stage approach to holding certain doctrinal positions (however true and accurate to Scriptural interpretation they may be) should also be discouraged. Consider what Romans 14:1 says, “As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions” (ESV). Do not misunderstand this passage to suggest there is never a time to debate and defend the foundational and primary truths upon which Christianity is established. There will be times where associations may need to be severed and heresies rebuked. But when these situations arise among the brethren, Christ calls us to do so boldly, clearly, and with grace. Understand that there are believers that are in different stages of their walk with Christ and in their depth of understanding. Look to chapter 3 and verse 15 and 16 of Paul’s letter to the Phillipians when considering your encounters with those who may be of less maturity – “Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. Only let us hold true to what we have attained” (ESV). Some of my best friends differ doctrinally from me. However, these doctrines (as a theological triage approach would guide) are not primary truths of Christianity, but rather secondary doctrines such as ecclesiology, Christian freedom, and eschatology. I’m happy to debate my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ over these doctrines understanding that their will be different understandings of the text. However, I become staunch when fundamental truths of Christianity are threatened. The full deity and humanity of Christ, the Trinity, justification by faith alone, and the authority and innerancy of Scripture are doctrines to not back down on. To question these doctrines would be to deny their absolute clarity in Scripture. In these moments, when a friend is suggesting there is another way to salvation other than Christ, or that Scripture is only partly sufficient, with grace, clarity, and love share the Word of God with this person, reprove and correct them, and with the help of the Holy Spirit, bring them to an understanding of the truth.

The theological climate today is interesting. 10 Christians standing in a room may very well have 10 different understandings of any one doctrine. Part of these differences are elements of this world which is broken by sin and confusion. Other parts may be an adamant refusal to believe a certain doctrine because it forces the person to live in such a way that honors God and His Word. I believe the best way (indeed, the only way) to navigate the theological waters many believers find themselves in is through consistent and thorough study of God’s Word, prayer, and the conviction of the Holy Spirit. May the Lord open your eyes to the truth of His Word and give you the wisdom and understanding by the power of His Holy Spirit to discern the truths of Scripture.

Soli Deo Gloria!

-JR