Articles
Tolerance
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Let your gentleness be known to all men (Phil. 4:5).
Speak evil of no one, . . . be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men (Tit. 3:2).
As we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith (Gal. 6:10).
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In his monumental three-volume work, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, eighteenth-century historian Edward Gibbon made this observation about the role of religion in the Empire:
"The various modes of worship which prevailed in the Roman world were all considered by the people as equally true; by the philosopher as equally false; and by the magistrate as equally useful. And thus toleration produced not only mutual indulgence, but even religious concord."
This spirit of toleration no doubt contributed to the atmosphere of tranquility that marked life in the early Empire. But Gibbon's reference to "mutual indulgence" betrays a darker side to this benevolent Pax Romana: the moral character of the people was appalling. Slavery was accepted as the normal condition of humanity. Sexual debauchery was widespread, especially among the upper classes, with women and slaves used as vessels to gratify male lust. Unwanted infants were dumped in the garbage pits outside of towns. Conquering generals slaughtered their captives by the thousands--and were celebrated for their achievements.
Yes, the religions of the early Empire were quite tolerant. And the character of the people showed it.
First Judaism, then especially Christianity, challenged this indulgent approach to religion. They insisted that there was only one true God, that all humans have equal dignity in His sight, and that sexual purity was absolutely essential to a good life. Naturally, this kind of uncompromising teaching got the Christians branded as radicals who posed a threat to the stability of the Empire.
But a closer reading of the Christians' own writings reveals a more balanced approach to human relations. The three passages above from Paul's hand are a sampling of the kind of teaching that Christianity promoted. Its foundation was inflexible, yes; but it advocated a lifestyle of universal charity, kindness, and goodwill toward all. Christians who practice their religion pose no threat to society; on the contrary, they elevate it. The very concept of human rights today can be traced back to the exalted view of humanity that was promoted by the "intolerant" Christians.
Today, nothing has really changed. Christians are still mocked as intolerant bigots by a generation that is strangling in its own profligacy. Our task today, as it was for our forebearers, is to display the love of Christ to all without rancor or discrimination, while holding to our convictions. It's a fine balancing act, to be sure, but that is the task God has called us to do.
--David
