Do exclusive truth claims cause conflict?

Some time ago, I was conversing with an agnostic who made the statement that exclusive truth claims should be avoided, because they are what causes conflict. It’s quite a common perspective that people, even Christians hold.

What it boils down to, is the importance of truth; and more importantly, how do we better understand the truth?

At some level, the agnostic and the Christian agree, at least on a practical level. Some truths are difficult to prove – even unprovable here and now. So what do we do about these truths?

Silence

One response is to refuse to discuss them. I have had a few encounters with people who, just because two conflicting views are being shared, appear to be somehow threatened by the debate. Or even worse, have expressed their view – to end with, “but everyone should respect each other’s opinions” – which normally means, everyone respecting theirs – no matter how unreasonable.

This may work (to a very limited extent) in the impersonal world of blogging and the internet, but not with real relationships. By declaring how we feel about  some topics as ‘out of bounds’ – we keep a relationship shallow. I might realise that I can’t talk about my passion for politics or religion or sport with my in laws – and be quite ok. But if I can’t discuss these things with my kids, or my best friend – then there remains some small wedge between us. It limits how much I’m willing to share. If you can’t accept the real me, then I’ll hide the real me and show only the parts you’re willing to accept.

Connection requires conflict

But, In order to have true, meaningful relationships then some level of conflict is unavoidable. Avoiding disagreement does ultimately limit conflict, but at the cost of relational intimacy. You can engage in small talk at the first conversation of a future spouse but unless you talk about values, beliefs and opinions, (which you will never completely agree on) then you will have an acquaintance and not a spouse.

There are countless Christian apologists, Muslim clerics, Atheists, and Agnostic professors who have debated their intensely ‘exclusive’ truth claims, with compassion respect and care. A great example of this is the relationship that the late Christopher Hitchens and Doug Wilson shared – one of apparent mutual respect and one of  ‘in danger of becoming friends’ (Christianity Today).

What does your truth say about disagreeing?

What’s more important is “ what are the truths you hold when disagreeing”. Should we respond with kindness, compassion, empathy, and tolerance? While I might not agree with the other person’s views on truth, what I believe to be true dictates how I respond. This is why truth is so important, because it shapes how I respond to others. Is it true that Jesus Christ died to save his enemies? Is it true that love and truth are things that Jesus valued? Is it true that Jesus responded to hatred with love?

Discussing, and disagreeing with other truth claims is what has weakened or strengthened my views about what is true. I’ve changed many a belief based on an argument used by a friend, foe or family member.

The Christian truth, as lived by Jesus, is the antidote to the violent clashing of truths that history has seen over again, by unfortunately Christians themselves sometimes – who have neglected the truth of the gospel.

About Adam Elovalis

When I turned 25 I had been a leader in my evangelical church for over 7 years and a Christian for most of my life. I was exhausted and burnt out from trying to fill my spiritual to do lists when God started me on this wonderful gospel journey. I'm a father of two beautiful children, husband to a very understanding wife, graphic designer and student of theology.

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