Knowing Passwords

“Knowing the correct password—saying ‘Master, Master,’ for instance—isn’t going to get you anywhere with me.” (Matthew 7:21 MSG)

Using the same passwords for all our online accounts can be a security risk. However, since it can be cumbersome to remember different passwords, many of us have a few default words that we use repeatedly to access our accounts. We know this is flawed, but we do it anyway. Why? Because it is convenient to maintain the status quo.

Christian denominations have a similar affinity for passwords and catchphrases. Each tradition has its own initiation rituals, essential prayers, and pet issues. Although we all speak the language of faith, we use different dialects of christianese. We insist that the words we use are the most accurate. If only everyone else would imitate us, then all would be right with this world!

“Verbal orthodoxy has been Christianity’s preoccupation, at times even allowing us to burn people at the stake for not “saying it right.” We ended up spreading national cultures under the rubric of Jesus, instead of a universally liberating message under the name of Christ.” (Richard Rohr)

Verbal orthodoxy, or words that convey our conformity to an approved set of beliefs and conduct, can be the passwords that give us acceptance within our social groups. Even though we sense this is a flawed system, we follow the prescribed patterns because it is convenient; plus, we want to fit in. Unfortunately, we don’t stop there. Conformists want others to join them, because their sense of security and identity depend on maintaining uniformity. Whenever we use the name of Christ to coerce others to fall in line with our political, social, or moral norms--we misrepresent Jesus. We follow a Messiah who was a rebel in His time. He continually bucked the status quo. Imitating other Christians won’t get us anywhere. Imitating Christ will.