Distinctiveness
Introduction Illustrating the importance of clearly communicating the Word of God, Paul said, “Yet even lifeless things, either flute or harp, in producing a sound, if they do not produce a distinction in the tones, how will it be known what is played on the flute or on the harp? For if the bugle produces an indistinct sound, who will prepare himself for battle?” (1 Cor. 14:6-12, esp. vs. 7-8).
Bugles and Brethren As musical instruments have a distinctive sound, and a skilled musician can produce clear tones, gospel preaching should also maintain its distinctiveness. Comparing the sound produced by a flute and a harp, Paul said, “If they do not produce a distinction in the tones, how will it be known what is played on the flute or on the harp?” (v. 7).
Definitions The Greek word diastolē, translated “distinction” (v 7), refers to “a separation, a difference” (Thomas 1293) or “difference, distinction” (BDAG). Occurring a total of 3x in the NT, elsewhere Paul uses it in the negative sense, affirming there is no *distinction (in humanity) for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:21-23), and there is no *distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all (Rom. 10:12-13).
Definitions Paul said, “For if the bugle produces an indistinct sound, who will prepare himself for battle?” (v 8). The Greek word adēlos, here translated “indistinct” and occurring twice, refers to that which is “unseen, not manifest” (Thomas 82). BDAG offered more detail, saying it “pertains to not being readily apparent, not clear, latent, unseen” (Luke 11:44), or it “pertains to not being clearly defined, indistinct” (1 Cor. 14:8).
Applicaton As musical instruments have a distinctive sound, so also does the Word of God. Just as an army is endangered if the watchman does not warn of approaching danger, so the people of God are imperiled by lack of clear, distinctive teaching.
In Personal Demeanor Distinctiveness is demanded in demeanor (Eph. 4:1-3). Walking worthy of our calling demands humility, gentleness, patience, proper tolerance, and love.
In Biblical Doctrine Distinctiveness is demanded in doctrine (Eph. 4:4-6).
In Biblical Doctrine There is one body (not many and varied bodies/churches). There is one faith (i.e., there is one belief system). There is one baptism (i.e., there is one pattern of conversation, one way of salvation).
In Biblical Doctrine There is one God and Father, one Lord Jesus Christ, and one Spirit. Both Old and New Covenants affirm the singularity of the One True God. There is one hope of your calling (not many and varied hopes).
In Collective Conduct Distinctiveness is demanded in the worship, work and organization of the church (Eph. 4:7- 16). There is a pattern of organization, a pattern of worship, and a pattern in the work of the Lord’s church.
In Individual Conduct Distinctiveness is demanded in conduct (Eph. 4:17-24). We must not behave as do most of mankind, pursuing the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life.
In Speech Distinctiveness is demanded in speech (Eph. 4:25, 29-32). Laying aside falsehood, we must speak truth. Avoiding vulgarity and all forms of corrupt speech, we must communicate words that are good for edification.
In Dress Distinctiveness is also demanded in dress. Christian women (and men) must adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly (1 Tim. 2:9-10; cf. 1 Pet. 3:1-4).
In Dress The difference between modest and immodest clothing may be observed in Genesis 3, which records the fall of Adam and Eve, their awakening moral awareness, their subsequent inadequate efforts to cover their nakedness, and God’s effective provision in that regard (Gen. 3:7-11, 21).
Conclusion Understanding the need for distinctiveness, let us not be conformed to the world, but be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Rom. 12:1-2; cf. 2 Cor. 3:18). Individually and collectively, my we conform to the Biblical pattern, submitting to the will of God, seeking a thus saith the Lord for all that we say and do (1 Pet. 4:10-11).