My ignorance of biology is almost embarrassing, so I've begun reading some good books on the subject. In one such volume, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, by Philip Yancey and Dr. Paul Brand, the authors not only explain the human body, they compare it to the Body of Christ in fascinating ways.
In Chapter 22, Dr. Brand describes the problem of rheumatoid arthritis. While the cause of this disease is unknown, we recognize it by what it does. Rheumatoid arthritis produces a hypersensitivity within the cells of joints. A joint becomes flooded with enzymes that normally occur when bacteria or abnormal cells are present and call into action the body's defensive mechanisms. But in this disease, there is no apparent "enemy" present, only the body's perception of one.
In rheumatoid arthritis, a healthy joint turns cannibalistic, destroying parts of itself. Yet when the joint is opened for examination, no "enemies" are found, only the body's defensive cells attacking healthy cartilage and ligaments. It's like a civil war has broken out in there and the defensive mechanism itself has become the disease.
The authors liken this pathology to some activities in the Christian Church. Members become hypersensitive, taking offense at real or imagined criticism, and their dignity or position becomes more important than the harmony of the group. An individual or a small group may grab a minor doctrinal or practical issue and make agreement on it the essential factor for unity - or else!
The lesson is obvious, but needs to be recognized. Is there friction and tension in your church or church body? Could it have resulted from righteous indignation against perceived wrongs? Could "righteous" anger be causing more damage than the "wrongs" which anger some people?
We may think Christians should be less susceptible to friction in the body because we believe in Jesus and His eternal ideals and goals. However, sin is always present to cause irritation, create friction, and make resulting tensions cause damage. Some folks may want to "do it right" so completely that all the good accomplishments get damaged by anger and harsh words.
Faith in Jesus Christ does not give us immunity to conflict. There's no innoculation against sin, no matter who we are. But there is One who gives us His eternal aid. Jesus brings us the spiritual medicines of forgiveness and reconciliation. He brings us peace and harmony on earth, and promises a life of no conflict in heaven.
The authors write, "The human body goes to incredible lengths to prevent friction, and the Body of Christ should be as careful to lubricate itself against possible conflicts as we move in common activity." (p. 182) I highly recommend this book for both its biological and spiritual insight.
Are you contributing to tension around you or working to overcome it?
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