36 Some time later, Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s go back and visit all the brothers and sisters in every city where we preached the Lord’s word. Let’s see how they are doing.” 37 Barnabas wanted to take John Mark with them. 38 Paul insisted that they shouldn’t take him along, since he had deserted them in Pamphylia and hadn’t continued with them in their work. 39 Their argument became so intense that they went their separate ways. Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus. 40 Paul chose Silas and left, entrusted by the brothers and sisters to the Lord’s grace. 41 He traveled through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches. (Acts 15:36-41, CEB)
I have heard and used the phrase agree to disagree.
Sometimes, like in the passage above, this is an ok phrase to use. Paul and Barnabas disagree about bringing John Mark along. Barnabas wants to but Paul doesn’t. Now John Mark deserted Paul and Barnabas earlier and Paul thinks this is a reason he shouldn’t come and Barnabas doesn’t. So it isn’t that John Mark is mistreating anyone, with the information we know, and John Mark isn’t oppressing anyone, so it is ok to agree to disagree.
But when someone is using religion or any means to hurt or harm someone or a group based on their differences this is not a place to agree to disagree, it is a place to push until justice is served.
We can disagree about dipping or drinking for communion. Real loaves or wafers, but who is welcome is not an agree to disagree.
We are called to love all without question.
Loving People. Loving God.
aSacredRebel 