But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
-2 Corinthians 12:9a, NIV
The blogosphere has been ignited by Joe Carter’s “Beware of Broken Wolves” post at The Gospel Coalition website.
I found the article disturbing.
In particular, I was troubled when Carter wrote:
But what separates Broken Wolves from Broken Sheep is the former believe their brokenness provides them—like the Gnostics of previous eras—with secret knowledge, such as fresh insights into the human condition. Because they can see more clearly than those who are “whole” (i.e., the average, hypocritical churchgoer)….
Is it possible that someone who has experienced deeper levels of suffering might understand the gospel in richer ways than “those who are ‘whole?'”
In general, I am troubled by the arrogance demonstrated in the whole article where the “broken” are treated as objects to be fixed or expelled out of the Church as “broken wolves.”
We are not merely objects for care but co-heirs.
This article by Carter illustrates the deeper problem within the Church.
This problem is one where Christians divide themselves into classes with the “hurt” below and the “whole” above.
“Divorced” versus “Married (Once)” is just one iteration of this Christian caste system in evangelical-land.
Such carnal thinking is dividing Christ’s Bride. Plus, it is robing it of its strength.
Those “hurt” Christians know a thing or two about injustice and living in a world broken by evil and sin. They know the value of relating to Christ as our beloved “Suffering Servant.”
The “whole” Christians might learn something from those “hurt” Christians if they are willing put aside their pride long enough to receive from them.
Treating “hurt” Christians as simply objects to be “cared for” cuts the Church off from those rich resources. And it reinforces this false caste system.
Just because a “hurt” Christian has a message does not make him or her a wolf!
That said, by all means, I agree that we ought to care for the hurting. I am grateful for those Christians who did as much for me while I was in my deepest pain.
However, please realize the relationship is NOT one directional! Nor does serving a “hurt” Christian somehow means you are better than them.
None of us are exempt from some sort of brokenness in this world, which is thoroughly marred by sin.
Amen DM.
“…“hurt” Christians know a thing or two about injustice and living in a world broken by evil and sin.”
And they can minister to others to much greater effect than those who have not suffered much.