Personal Background

I graduated with an M.A. in Christian Apologetics from Biola University in 2014, and completed my Doctorate of Ministry degree in Theology and Apologetics through Liberty University in 2022.  I currently serve as a Bible Department Head and Campus Ministry Director for a Christian high school in the greater Seattle area.

Theological Considerations

One of the most rewarding experiences for me spiritually was working through my Master’s and Doctorate Degrees with students from Christian traditions other than the denomination I grew up in. It was truly an “ironing sharpening iron,” experience. Furthermore, all doctrine is important, but I have seen that disagreement over secondary doctrines does not have to cause discord or animosity between fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Unfortunately, the church has experienced too much of that. However, if we can in humility, strive to understand each other first and disagree second, we will benefit personally and the church will benefit collectively.

This is why it is so important to make doctrinal distinctions. Essential Christian doctrine is not negotiable, and there are times when advocating for the truth of what Scripture teaches, especially about the nature of God, will cause tension. To call oneself a Christian, an individual must embrace these doctrines as true, and the New Testament is full of tension and correction about doctrine. That said, non-essential doctrines, while important, should not be considered “deal breakers.” Godly, Scripture-studying Christians can disagree on these issues without questioning the other side’s love for God or desire to accurately handle Scripture. We should be careful not to throw rhetorical stones at our fellow believers because we have different doctrinal standpoints regarding secondary issues.

Perhaps Rupertus Meldenius, a Lutheran Theologian, said it best:
In essentials we have unity. In non-essentials we have liberty. In all our beliefs we show charity.

Here is an example of how some doctrines divide: