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In an era when societal discourse often resembles a schoolyard squabble more than reasoned debate, the notion of love triumphing over partisanship can seem quaint.
Yet, this divide is more than mere perception—it’s a measurable reality. A recent study found that around 50 percent of both Republicans and Democrats view the opposite party as “more immoral” than other Americans.
The church, despite its calling to unity, is not immune to these divisions. Increasingly, Americans choose faith communities based on political alignment, creating echo chambers reinforced by their digital lives. Pastors and ministry leaders find themselves in a precarious position, pressed to either voice their social views or maintain strict neutrality.
However, hope remains for Christian leaders seeking to foster love across cultural chasms. While challenging, the Bible offers rich wisdom for initiating conversations that build bridges rather than walls.
Seek Ye First
When it comes to the walls constructed by American Christian engagement in politics, evangelicals can be tempted to oscillate between two extremes: total immersion, in which faith and politics become inseparable, or complete avoidance, resulting in a dismissal of political issues altogether. Scripture, however, points to a third way—one that calls Christians to “seek first [God’s] kingdom and his righteousness” (Matt. 6:33).
The call to seek God’s kingdom is not a call to ignore the temporary trappings of our lives. Instead, it’s an invitation to remember our ultimate identity as children of God, whose reign has no end. From this secure foundation, Christians can engage with politics not as an idol but as an arena where our faith finds expression. We’re empowered by a spirit of “power, love, and self-discipline” (2 Tim. 1:7), grounded in God’s past, present, and future work.
Jesus called both zealots and tax collectors, Pharisees and Herodian women—people from ideological camps so opposite that they make our divisions seem civil—to follow him, proving how God’s love transcends position and perspective.
“If Christians remember that Jesus’ life and teachings are set amidst the rumblings of sectarian violence, empire, and economic insecurity, it changes how we engage in our politics,” explains Jason Gaboury, the National Director of Alumni Relations at InterVarsity. “Jesus taught political enemies to love one another.”
Such love does not ridicule or resent. Instead, it forms relationships defined not by shared opinion but a shared goal: honoring one another’s humanity as those made in the image of God.
Navigating the Waters
In our soundbite-driven landscape, how can Christ-followers cultivate love that transcends ideological boundaries? Consider these four approaches, each rooted in biblical wisdom:
1. Cultivate empathetic listening.
Scripture exhorts believers to “be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19). . This call is crucial in our age of rapid-fire communication. Stephen Covey’s advice to “seek first to understand, then to be understood” echoes Christ’s teaching. As we engage with those holding different social views, approach each conversation as an opportunity to hear the heart behind the opinion. Practice paraphrasing to ensure genuine understanding, and ask questions that delve deeper into the experiences shaping their views. In doing so, we seek to see the divine image in each person, regardless of their background or beliefs.
2. Practice humility and self-reflection.
Proverbs reminds us that “fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions” (18:2). In a culture that often rewards certainty and punishes doubt, Christians are called to radical humility. This humility acknowledges our limited perspective and remains open to learning and growth. Approach complex discussions with a Christ-like heart, doing “nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but instead, in humility [valuing] others above yourselves,” (Phil. 2:3).
3. Find common ground.
Despite seemingly insurmountable divides, Christians share fundamental values rooted in faith. Micah’s call to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God” (6:8) transcends the issues of the day. Begin discussions by affirming shared commitments to justice, compassion, and human dignity. Building relationships on this common ground creates a foundation strong enough to withstand disagreements. Remember Paul’s words to the divided Galatian church: “You are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28).
4. Engage in respectful dialogue.
When addressing contentious issues, we’re called to speak “the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15). Maintain a tone of respect and grace, even in disagreement. Use “I” statements to express views without attacking others, and ask thoughtful questions that invite deeper reflection. To win an argument cannot be a higher goal than bearing witness to Christ’s transformative love. This approach mirrors Jesus’ interactions with Samaritans and Roman centurions, always maintaining dignity even when challenging beliefs or actions
The Role of Faith Leaders in Bridging Divides
Faith leaders play a crucial role in fostering environments where love flourishes across differences. By modeling Christlike love, they set the tone for their congregations, organizations, and ministries. Creating healthy spaces for difficult conversations helps Christians practice these skills in a supportive setting. On college campuses, InterVarsity leaders are building Christian communities where students from diverse families, cultures, and denominations can come together, learning to love each other and their neighbors. Similarly, pastors can teach on unity, loving enemies, and the dangers of division, while providing concrete strategies for navigating real-world tensions.
This work of loving across divides goes beyond maintaining church harmony—it’s crucial for spiritual formation and leadership development. The ability to build bridges amid disagreement speaks to the gospel’s transformative power. As Tom Lin, InterVarsity president, recently wrote for CT, today’s culture “places a special premium on winning and on looking out for number one, honoring oneself above others. Practicing genuine love and authentic witness that sees the beauty of serving others, even those who disagree with you, is deeply countercultural.”
This countercultural path forward isn’t easy, but it’s essential. As we navigate these turbulent waters, may we embody Paul’s words: “Over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity” (Col. 3:14). In doing so, we bear witness to a love stronger than any social divide—a love with the power to heal a fractured world.
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship recognizes the importance of forming leaders who navigate these challenges with Christ-centered love. Through campus ministries, leadership training, and resources, InterVarsity equips the next generation to be faithful witnesses in our diverse, often divided world.
InterVarsity is discipling young people to navigate this world with Christ-centered love. Help them form faithful leaders who can build bridges in a divided world.
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