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Point of Reference

    by Fred Price

Rugged Individualism
Date Posted: March 13, 2020

One of the more pervasive ideals of American society has been that of rugged individualism, where all an individual needs is to be left to his own devices to succeed. We especially don’t believe we need anyone advising us as to what to do – let alone how to do it – nor where or why. Which simply is not true. We all need companionship, help and encouragement and are lesser beings without it; particularly in spiritual matters. We must stay connected to the source of our worship; which usually won’t happen if we’re aloof and non-involved. Scripture emphasizing the unity of the church and our devotion to one another as fostering an inter-connectedness that is essential to our secular and spiritual well-being. In truth, vibrant faith is all about dependence on God and fellowship with other believers; not an independent and solitary existence. (Hebrews 10:25)

That’s not to say a certain amount of self-reliance isn’t admirable, as we must be able to function as individuals – to stand true and strong when no one else agrees with us – but taken too far is counter-productive and anti-social. As author Richard Lamb notes, “Even a cursory glance through the Gospels confirm that the work Jesus did in the lives of his disciples occurred because the disciples were in relationship, not simply with him, but with one another.” 1 (See Mark 3:31-35)

Many admire the characters portrayed by John Wayne, Harrison Ford, etc. Men who expect society’s support in their endeavors – at least superficially – but who operate largely outside the confines of society. Who are, of course, always successful specifically because they go their own way. When in actuality, the vast majority of us get very little done on our own – often failing miserably; but that persona is still idealized because it is imagined we remain uncompromised and unwavering to the end. And again, there is something to be said for these characteristics and the resolve it takes to do what we believe is right, come what may. But if all of life is based on the contrariness of an Us vs. Them mentality, neither “us” nor “them” will be very happy or productive.

A better example might be St. Francis of Assisi; a wealthy young man who came to realize the insensitivity of his society’s attitudes toward real religion and the less fortunate. He didn’t isolate himself though from everybody else, although he did live an ascetic life-style; searching out like-minded believers who were equally willing to engage in a service-oriented lifestyle. His new-found community or “family” of believers dedicating themselves to genuine worship and obedience to God’s will, holding each other accountable to the faith and rejoicing in their shared beliefs.

His response to his call in Christ wasn’t always ideal and should never be used as an excuse to leave home prematurely; being judgmental toward friends and family while demanding their understanding and support; questioning the sincerity of those who don’t agree with our comprehension of things; resenting the upbringing and discipline of our parents, the church, our school, or the laws of the land we live in; mockingly pointing out the dysfunction of some or all the above while neglecting the responsibility we have to all the above. His is not the basis for the mythical American hero who refuses to submit to anyone, questioning all authority but their own. Rather he characterized first and fore-most a newly committed Christian, continually seeking to do God’s will. In doing so, he followed the ultimate example of Jesus, who never expected his disciples to be rugged individualists; although some situations may more readily give that appearance – as when we reject the ethics and lifestyle of the society we live in – but describes us as a people of God, set apart for a purpose; gathered around Him as we seek His will together. (Matthew 18:20)

People have always sought to go their own way, even in church; sometimes with cause, as the church has never been perfect. How could it be? It’s filled with imperfect –even sinful people. But we often stoop to questioning the legitimacy of church altogether because of the mistakes that have been made, challenging the “right” of elders to set policy and lead the church in a particular direction, denigrating the church’s purpose and by association it’s founder. (See Matthew 16:18 “…I will build my church,…” and 1 Corinthians 10:4 for the identity of the true “rock” the church is built on.) The Greek word for church designating an assembly of believers, as it’s the people who meet together who form the church. (Acts 14:27) It’s primary purpose being a shared one with Christ, preaching the good news of salvation, proclaiming freedom from sin found only in Him, opening the eyes of the blind to the truth of the gospel. (Luke 4:18) Jesus specifically pointing out the saving discipline of the church in Matthew 18:17.

The Book of Acts attributes the astonishing growth of the early church directly to the Lord who, “…added to their number daily…” Acts 2:47 The universal aspect of it’s growth noted by Paul in his directive to believers to, “…not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church…” 1 Corinthians 10:32 That universality largely the result of Paul and his several associates as they taught and converted great numbers of people, establishing countless churches along the way. To insure stability and truth in theses churches, elders were appointed in each one (Acts 14:23); God’s authority to organize, guide and govern through believers appointed to a number of “offices” in the church clearly stated in 1 Corinthians 12:28. We should be extremely careful then how we respond to “issues” within the church. Which doesn’t preclude addressing legitimate problems but which necessitates understanding fully what’s really going on – which is not always possible; sometimes requiring us to trust our elders to make the right decisions for us.

Being integrally involved in church enables us to, “…draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith,…” Inspiring us to, “…hold on unswervingly to the hope we profess,…” Causing us to, “…consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” Hebrews 10:22-24Because, “His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be known…” Ephesians 3:10 Many have acknowledged this truth as they’ve recognized the dangers of trusting to their own judgment in spiritual matters, realizing the need they have of the wisdom handed down to us through church doctrine, tradition and discipline. “We need our scripture reading to be informed by the larger understanding of a community of believers; because deep down, we learn it is through that community that we find inspiration, are held accountable and led to a broader application of God’s word and will.”2

Thus the admonition of Hebrews 10:25, “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another – and all the more as you see the day approaching.”

1 The Pursuit of God in the Company of Friends – Inter-Varsity Press

2Mark Galli, Jesus Mean and Wild, Baker Books

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Biography Information:

Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.

Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker.  He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today.  Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.  

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