In a previous editorial (May, 1986) I asked the question Does the church need a loyal opposition? and answered Yes. But how are we to know who is loyal and who is merely a malcontent or even a traitor? This is not easy. It cannot be left to church leaders alone. We dare not presume that church employees are always loyal and laity are always disloyal when they speak out. God can use anyone, whether ordained or not. Amos, who was a loyal dissident, explicitly declares that originally he held no office in the church. He earned his living by raising sheep and growing figs. But he tells us that the Lord had irresistibly called him to expose Israel's guilt and announce her downfall (Amos 7:14ff).
When evaluating opposition, we should consider five criteria:
A loyal opposition is not negative to be negative. It offers alternatives. When David sinned in taking a census of Israel, God sent Gad to critique his decision. He then offered three alternatives from which to choose (2 Sam. 24:13). A loyal opposer does not simply condemn; he points to a better way (1 Sam. 7:3).
A loyal opposition is humble. Those who fill this role have a gentle spirit. They do not display a superior attitude, implying "I have the truth. You had better listen to me!" Nathan, when he approached the top administrator in the land, rebuked him indirectly (2 Sam. 12:1-14). By his story of the farmer, his tenant, and the lamb, he touched David's heart and led him to repentance.
Loyal opposers are willing to admit the mistakes they make; they are not self-righteous. When David was planning to build the Temple, Nathan gave him every encouragement (2 Sam. 7:3). However, Nathan soon learned he had given wrong counsel, and he had to return to David with the disappointing news that it was not for him to build the sanctuary (verses 12, 13).
The loyal opposition is independent of the favor of its audience. Because those who are part of it believe they are speaking for God, they do not cry peace and safety (which helps explain their unpopularity). The church does allow for, and often welcomes, vigorous debate on committees and, sometimes, at general meetings. However, outside these forums opposition is usually unwelcome.
Jeremiah won no popularity contest with his leaders (Jer. 26:8), while Hananiah, his contemporary, was well regarded. While Jeremiah was forecasting captivity, Hananiah was preaching freedom (Jer. 28:10,11). Unpopular messages are seldom appreciated by those in power, but they need to be heard.
Those who make up the loyal opposition gain credibility if their actions match their words. How do these individuals treat their families? How do their children regard them? Jesus said, "By their fruit you will recognize them" (Matt. 7:16, NIV). Do they live what they preach to others?
When God sent a prophet to warn Jeroboam, He instructed him to deliver his message and return home without accepting any invitation to eat. This member of the loyal opposition disobeyed—and paid the penalty with his life (1 Kings 13). And his action weakened his testimony.
It is vital that those who are part of the loyal opposition live consistent lives. How are they regarded in their local church and community? Are they known as positive and supportive—ones who make a valid contribution? Samuel's authority was great not so much because of what he said but because of how he lived: "You have not cheated or oppressed us" (1 Sam. 12:4, NIV; see also 8:5; 15:30, 31).
Opposition is always fraught with danger. If a person feels called to speak up, he must also be willing to face the consequences. The rough treatment that Jeremiah experienced did not discourage or deter him. Whatever happens, the loyal opposition must always speak "the truth in love" (Eph. 4:15, NIV).
We must not reject anyone simply because at times he or she opposes something the church or its leaders are doing. But we can, and must, be sure the opposition is loyal before we take it seriously.—J. D.N.
