The Black Church and the Oneness-Trinitarian Divide

DOES THEOLOGY EVEN MATTER ANY MORE?

One of the primary responsibilities of the pastor/teacher is to protect the sheep. But, what exactly are we protecting the sheep from? This crucial question could provoke various answers, from various perspectives. Some would say:

-We are protecting the sheep from patriarchy and heteronormativity

-We are protecting the sheep from poverty and sickness

-We are protecting the sheep from D9 institutions and demonic strongholds

-We are protecting the sheep from the Democratic Party and liberal politics

-We are protecting the sheep from modernity and the influence of the broader society

While all of these answers require theological reflection, discussion and development, they don’t get to the heart of what the Apostle Paul said in Acts 20:29-30

“I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them.”

Paul warns the pastors in Ephesus to guard the flock against false teaching (speaking twisted things). Surely, there are a myriad of other threats out there, but the primary threat is the infiltration of false doctrine. Therefore, it’s incumbent upon pastors to be able to identify doctrinal error; even amidst very nuanced conversations.

The Oneness-Trinitarian conversation is extremely important and requires careful nuance. Many aren’t thinking deeply about the distinctions, and some recklessly ignore the irreconcilable conclusions. Oftentimes, doctrinal fidelity gives way to personal affinity, and the responsibility of protecting the sheep is abdicated.

Some may wonder if the Oneness-Trinitarian conversation even matters. Some may wonder if the Oneness-Trinitarian conversation boils down to a distinction without a difference. Some may wonder if even engaging in this discussion is hair-splitting.

Catch the full conversation here.