Christian communities around the globe face difficulties adjusting to the new realities of today’s world. And in the quest for a solution, we see many conflicts emerge. Today, we’d like to share 20 things dividing Christians, especially in the areas of faith, morality, and social justice.
LGBTQ+ Acceptance
The acceptance of LGBTQ practices within the Christian community is a major cause for debate, as we see some liberally embrace them while others conservatively hold onto their traditional views. For instance, Pew Research reveals that 62% of Protestants are in support of same-sex marriages, while 33% are in complete opposition to them.
Women in Leadership
The role of women in church leadership is so conflicting that Regent University says there is perhaps no issue that’s more hotly debated in Christian communities. Arguments stem from the conflicts between the progressive, modern views on women having the same rights as men and the traditional views on male-dominated churches backed by the Bible.
Political Allegiances
Political views create significant rifts, and sometimes these rifts are so intense that they drive people away from their churches. We have Christians engaged in arguments on issues such as immigration and healthcare, and we also have some who believe these political stances have no place in the church at all.
Environmental Stewardship
Opinions on environmental stewardship vary widely among Christians, with some advocating for robust action on climate change and viewing it as a moral imperative, while others prioritize economic concerns or are skeptical of the science. These differing perspectives have led to conflicts over church policies, initiatives, and sometimes even personal relationships within the congregation.
Abortion
Abortion remains a deeply polarizing topic, with many Christians opposing it based on their understanding of the sanctity of life. The opposing party supports access to reproductive healthcare, citing compassion and women’s rights. This issue often surfaces in political discourse, further exacerbating divisions within the church and influencing voting behaviors among congregants.
Social Justice
Issues such as racism, inequality, and police reform have also become significant points of debate. Some Christians prioritize advocacy and activism, seeing it as a core part of their faith, while others focus more on personal piety and evangelism. These differing priorities cause friction within congregations, affecting church missions and community outreach efforts.
Interpretation of Scripture
Differences in scriptural interpretation can lead to major theological disputes, with literal versus metaphorical readings of the Bible influencing beliefs about creation, miracles, and end-times prophecy. A great example is shared by Johns Hopkins University, where the simple statement “Father, forgive them,” with context, sparks debate about the interpretation of Luke 23:43.
Interfaith Relations
Relationships with other religions is another divisive issue. And while we see some Christians advocating for interfaith dialogue and cooperation, promoting understanding and peace, others believe in maintaining a clear distinction between Christianity and other faiths, wary of compromising their religious identity.
Modern Worship Practices
Modern worship practices, including contemporary music and casual services, are popular in many churches but controversially berated in others. Traditionalists often prefer hymns and formal liturgy, believing these practices better honor God. And the resulting clash of preferences has led to disagreements over worship styles, so much so that it now affects service attendance.
Technology in Church
The use of technology in church services, such as online streaming and digital outreach, has grown but remains divisive as well. Some see it as a way to reach more people and stay relevant, while others fear it detracts from the sacredness of in-person worship and community. This issue influences church budgets and resource allocation.
Prosperity Gospel
The prosperity gospel, which teaches that faith can lead to financial and physical well-being, is a contentious topic for debate. Critics argue that it distorts Christian teachings and exploits believers, while supporters claim it inspires hope and generosity. This theological debate affects how churches approach wealth and giving, often influencing sermons and financial planning.
Evolution vs. Creationism
As Goshen University shares, there’s also the debate between evolution and creationism that many Christians find themselves caught up in. Some accept scientific explanations for the origin of life, integrating them with their faith, while others hold to a literal interpretation of the Genesis creation account. This issue influences educational choices and theological discussions, and can even affect church membership.
Charismatic Gifts
The use of charismatic gifts, such as speaking in tongues and prophecy, is embraced by some denominations and rejected by others. Beliefs about the continuation or cessation of these gifts lead to differing worship practices and can cause divisions within and between congregations, sometimes resulting in the formation of separate churches.
Alcohol Use
Attitudes toward alcohol vary among Christians, with some denominations allowing moderate drinking, viewing it as permissible within biblical limits, while others advocate for total abstinence based on moral and health concerns. These differing views influence church policies and social interactions, and they affect community events and celebrations as well.
Divorce and Remarriage
Divorce and remarriage are sensitive topics within Christian communities, where traditional views often see marriage as a lifelong covenant, discouraging divorce except in extreme circumstances. However, more progressive perspectives offer grace and support for those who have experienced marital breakdown, affecting pastoral care and church support programs.
Mental Health
Approaches to mental health within churches can be divisive. While some advocate for professional counseling and medication, seeing mental health as important as physical health, others emphasize prayer and spiritual solutions, sometimes stigmatizing those who seek secular help. This affects church support systems, pastoral care, and community resources.
Mission Strategies
Strategies for missions and evangelism can vary widely, and we see some Christians emphasize local community service and social justice as expressions of the gospel, while others focus on traditional evangelism and global missions. These differing approaches can cause tension over how resources are allocated and how ministries are prioritized, and they can affect congregational support, too.
Handling Scandals
Responses to scandals within the church, such as abuse or financial misconduct, can be polarizing, too. Some advocate for transparency and accountability, pushing for reforms, while others prioritize forgiveness and restoration. These differing views affect church policies and trust within the community, and, more importantly, can influence member retention.
Homeschooling vs. Public Education
The choice between homeschooling and public education divides some Christian parents. And while homeschooling is favored by those wanting to incorporate faith-based curricula and protect children from secular influences, public education is supported by others for its diversity and broader opportunities. These have an effect on community cohesion and church-sponsored educational programs.
Theological Education
The importance and type of theological education have also been contentious issues, with some valuing formal seminary training for clergy to ensure a deep understanding of doctrine and pastoral care. Others prefer informal, on-the-job training, believing it keeps ministers more connected to their congregations’ needs.
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