Irenic...my new favorite word

[mizpeh]

Irenic means to : favoring, conducive to, or operating toward peace, moderation, or conciliation

The quote below is an excerpt from a letter written by John Newton to a minister friend who was about to write an article criticizing a fellow minister for his lack of orthodoxy, and wrote to John Newton of his intention. John Newton wrote in his second paragraph:

As to your opponent, I wish that before you set pen to paper against him, and during the whole time you are preparing your answer, you may commend him by earnest prayer to the Lord’s teaching and blessing. This practice will have a direct tendency to conciliate your heart to love and pity him; and such a disposition will have a good influence upon every page you write. If you account him a believer, though greatly mistaken in the subject of debate between you, the words of David to Joab concerning Absalom, are very applicable: “Deal gently with him for my sake.” The Lord loves him and bears with him; therefore you must not despise him, or treat him harshly. The Lord bears with you likewise, and expects that you should show tenderness to others, from a sense of the much forgiveness you need yourself. In a little while you will meet in heaven; he will then be dearer to you than the nearest friend you have upon earth is to you now. Anticipate that period in your thoughts; and though you may find it necessary to oppose his errors, view him personally as a kindred soul, with whom you are to be happy in Christ forever.

Here's the letter in full: http://www.reclaimingthemind.org/blo...h-controversy/