Bridging the Divide

I cannot say enough good about Bridging the Divide by Dr. Robert L. Millet and Rev. Gregory C. V. Johnson. Dr. Millet is a religious professor at BYU (and was also the dean of religion). Rev. Johnson is a devout evangelical. These two men have come together to demonstrate how to have courteous and meaningful conversations with each other about their beliefs, and even how to have strong inter-faith friendships. They do all this without compromising their different convictions of truth. Although both would love the other to convert to their faith, they do not try to prove each other wrong by debating and confronting each other on different issues. Their genuine purpose is to learn to live together in love and understanding.

The book begins with an introduction from both authors, explaining that they have done at least 50 public conversations together. The next portion of the book then gives an example of this conversation. They are funny together, but completely honest in their answers. Just as it hurts Latter-day Saints to be told they are not Christians, likewise Evangelicals are hurt when we say that all their creeds are an abomination. Through their dialogue, the authors show how to be sincere, yet gentle.

The next portion of the book is an example of questions received from different audiences and answers from both authors. The questions often take on an accusing tone and sound harsh. It is amazing to see both Dr. Millet and Rev. Johnson receive these questions and then answer them in such a way that disarms the hostility and opens the way for understanding.

The book concludes with a message from both authors about how to continue this great work of reaching out. Both sides need to let go of pride and let the genuine love of the Savior be the source of all interactions. There is much good that both groups can accomplish together, even without giving up their differences. Also, by engaging with other people about their faith in an open and courteous matter, we will learn more about them, and more about our own beliefs as well. I can definitely say that I learned a lot just by reading this book.

If I may, I want to compare the feelings evoked within me by this book with a scene from the musical 1776. At one point, John Adams and John Dickinson erupt into a huge argument in the middle of Congress, calling each other names and dueling with their canes. They are broken up by Caeser Rodney who reminds them that they have forgotten the true enemy. Likewise, too often Mormons and Evangelicals get into similar petty arguments over differences (some real, some imagined) and forget that the real enemy is Satan. Together, both sides can work to stem the tide of evil and prepare the world for the return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.