In the 8th Century a "heresy" developed within Christianity called Iconoclastism. These people rejected to religious icons (religious images and monuments), which in itself was not a problem. The problem is that these "heretics" or Iconoclasts persecuted those who did not share this belief and sought to destroy images others cherished.
To illistrate, many people will not have a painting representing Christ or a cross on their homes. An Iconoclast believes he has a God given responsibility to remove these things from their neighbors homes.
Iconoclastism has come to extend to beliefs as well. Christian evangelism is sharing the gospel. Iconoclastism is attacking other beliefs and other belief systems.
To illustrate, when Paul was at the Acropolis he used the pagan view of an "unknown god" to evangelize. Were Paul an Iconoclast his focus would not have been to share the gospel but to first attack the beliefs held by his audience.
Within the Body of Christ we find this "heresy" as well. Christians are commanded not to judge the "servant of Another". Iconoclast demands this command be ignored in favor of tearing down and attacking any belief that they find in error.
This is, of course, is not to say we do not judge. We judge the things we accept. We judge those within our congregations. We guard our church against false doctrine as best we can. But we can only do kingdom work in kingdom ways. God does not bless disobedience regardless of intention.
I wonder how much Iconoclastism resides in us. I think I have a bit, if I am honest with myself. I think of John Owen's words - be killing sin or it will be killing you.
To illistrate, many people will not have a painting representing Christ or a cross on their homes. An Iconoclast believes he has a God given responsibility to remove these things from their neighbors homes.
Iconoclastism has come to extend to beliefs as well. Christian evangelism is sharing the gospel. Iconoclastism is attacking other beliefs and other belief systems.
To illustrate, when Paul was at the Acropolis he used the pagan view of an "unknown god" to evangelize. Were Paul an Iconoclast his focus would not have been to share the gospel but to first attack the beliefs held by his audience.
Within the Body of Christ we find this "heresy" as well. Christians are commanded not to judge the "servant of Another". Iconoclast demands this command be ignored in favor of tearing down and attacking any belief that they find in error.
This is, of course, is not to say we do not judge. We judge the things we accept. We judge those within our congregations. We guard our church against false doctrine as best we can. But we can only do kingdom work in kingdom ways. God does not bless disobedience regardless of intention.
I wonder how much Iconoclastism resides in us. I think I have a bit, if I am honest with myself. I think of John Owen's words - be killing sin or it will be killing you.