The Vine, Inclusion, and Unity
At The Vine, we do not seek to strictly align with either affirming or traditional positions regarding human sexuality. We are seeking a “Third Way” as we pursue love and truth while providing space for individuals to differ on their theological convictions in this matter. At The Vine, we acknowledge these are tough and important topics. Faithful people will come to different conclusions in the interpretation of scripture. We choose to value empathy and compassion over certainty and absolute agreement. We seek unity in following Jesus within the essentials of our faith.
In 2020, The Vine’s Leadership Team engaged in various resources alongside abundant prayer, Bible study, interviews, and discussion that led us to a discerned posture of this Third Way. Our 3-page document (below) explaining our posture and what it means for our church was shared first in 2020 and was updated in 2022.
Third Way sermon series
Listen to Messages from our Third Way sermons series, April/May 2022
A Third Way Community – An Introduction
In this message, we consider what it means to be a “center-set church,” doing so through the imagery of wells and fences.
This sermon discusses two different sources of unity – unity of positions and unity of posture. Considering Paul’s discussion of “disputable matters” (Romans 14), we consider the importance of clothing ourselves with the posture of Christ instead of the banners of this world.
Acts, the Holy Spirit, and the Third Way
Looking at an overview of the book of Acts, we consider how the Holy Spirit initiated the Church through forging a unity that challenged the ways of this world and religious tradition.
We revisit the Sodom and Gomorrah story. The goal is to show how often we use Scripture polarize people based on our own biases. And we consider a deeper meaning of this story and how this could help create a Third Way community.
Holding a Third Way Posture with Human Sexuality
In this message, we will consider how we will utilize the Third Way approach to the conversation of human sexuality.
Third Way Series Creed
As we follow Jesus together in this series, here are a few commitments we hope to share as a Third Way community.
We choose to value empathy and compassion over certainty and absolute agreement.
We commit to uphold the God-given dignity and intrinsic value of all humanity regardless of others’ convictions or beliefs.
We will find the courage to challenge all forms of communication that foster disdain, violence, and contempt.
With a healthy awareness of our own bias, we vow to form our beliefs in the counsel of Scripture, a dependence upon the Holy Spirit, and most importantly in following the way of Christ.
We vow to pursue clarity around our own convictions while respecting others who faithfully disagree.
We commit to extend compassion where there is suffering, curiosity where there is difference, and belonging where there is isolation.
Resources
The following are some resources that the Leadership Team used to foster study and discussion.