It is commonly understood that maintaining a constructive mindset is incompatible with a focus on destruction. Opposition is not inherently aligned with goodness; rather, it often resonates with malevolence. Human conflicts arise as frequently as misunderstandings persist, and the most effective way to address these misunderstandings is through communication, with language at its core. Misuse of words and phrases can lead to miscommunication, sparking unnecessary conflicts. This underscores the critical importance of effective communication and mutual understanding in fostering harmony.
In Zimbabwe, the political landscape is fraught with danger due to the misapplication of terminology. Those who propose alternative governance ideas are often labelled as “opposition parties.” This labelling exacerbates the country’s challenges. The term “opposition” implies hostility toward the ruling establishment, creating an expectation of stagnation rather than progress. This stands in stark contrast to those who genuinely seek to offer progressive alternatives.
Polarization, characterized by the division between positive and negative trajectories, demands careful examination. Progress in a polarized nation is unlikely, as negative conditions may be misconstrued as progressive by an inadequately informed society. Education must provide a comprehensive understanding of what survival truly entails. If politics strays from progressive values, democracy cannot function effectively. Corruption thrives among individuals oblivious to the consequences of their actions and the future challenges they invite.
The Example of Jesus: Opposition Without Enmity
Jesus faced significant opposition during His ministry, yet His actions reveal a profound comfort in engaging with those who opposed Him. Despite their intent to kill Him, Jesus did not avoid them; instead, He treated them as friends. He attended their synagogues and taught them the truth without hesitation. When His disciples suggested standing against His enemies, He firmly rebuked them, as seen in His interaction with Peter:
“From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life. Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. ‘Never, Lord!’ he said. ‘This shall never happen to you!’ Jesus turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.’” (Matthew 16:21-23 NKJV).
Jesus’ response to Peter highlights a fundamental principle: opponents should not be regarded as enemies. His willingness to be crucified by those who opposed Him demonstrates this principle in action. The individuals who killed Jesus believed they were right, but their actions revealed their falsehood. The enduring legacy of Jesus lies in the love He continues to inspire, even among those who reject His teachings. This global impact is sustained by the principle of not viewing opponents as enemies, a cornerstone of Christian teaching.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:43-45 NKJV).
This scripture provides a guideline for addressing discord in relationships. Loving those who consider themselves enemies is not ordinary; it is divine. This principle should be foundational in human interactions, applied with understanding rather than rigidity. Christians are called to view others not as opponents but as individuals in need of enlightenment. Just as darkness cannot oppose the sun but disappears in its brightness, so too should enmity dissolve in the face of love and truth.
The Danger of Compromise: Blending Good and Evil
Human nature often seeks to blend good and evil, creating a mixture of light and darkness. However, Jesus’ teachings reject such compromise. His refusal to negotiate with the Jewish leaders led to His crucifixion, a testament to His unwavering commitment to truth. In contrast, the apparent peace in the world often results from compromises between good and evil. A contemporary example is the coalition government between the ANC and the DA in South Africa. While praised for fostering unity, this arrangement risks negative consequences by blending opposing principles.
Zimbabwe’s history illustrates the perils of such compromises. The unity pact between ZANLA and ZIPRA, to form the Patriotic Front, though seemingly noble, contained a troubling mix of good and evil. Joshua Nkomo is regarded as legendary, but it is the unity accord of 1987 that should be considered great, rather than the formation of the Patriotic Front. Unity discussions should not compromise on issues of good and evil.
The tragic consequences of the Patriotic Front alliance, encompassing the Gukurahundi massacres, underscore the dangers of such arrangements. Similarly, the 2009-2013 Government of National Unity (GNU) between ZANU PF and MDC, while celebrated at the time, failed to address underlying issues, leading to renewed economic and social challenges. Good and evil should be kept distinctly apart.
Zimbabwe is currently facing severe economic challenges, all resulting from the past unification of good and evil. Unbeknownst to many, what is being experienced is a result of failure to understand matters of principle. Mixing goodness and evil is as disastrous as mixing negative and positive electric currents. Blaming the president at the helm is not the cause, but rather the mixing of good and evil.
The Call to Spiritual Separation
Christians are called to be spiritually separate, although still among the people of this world. The test of Christianity is found in the ability to be separated from this world while still being in this world. (John 17:15-21) Jesus suggests a spiritual separation, to sacrifice the physical body for the benefit of others. The Apostle Paul warns against the blending of good and evil.
“Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14 NKJV).
This separation is spiritual, not physical. Christians are called to stand firm in their principles, even at great personal cost. Jesus’ instruction to love and pray for enemies requires profound sacrifice, often entailing the loss of worldly comforts or even life itself. The term “unity” sounds attractive, but not when one looks at the teachings of Christ, who declared that He did not come to bring peace on earth, but a sword (Matthew 10:35-39).
Unity in Diversity: The Mission of Christianity
Humanity is fundamentally indivisible. Divisions arise from the distinctions between good and evil, not from inherent differences among people. The mission of Christianity is to spread the gospel of Jesus, transcending racial, geographical, and ideological boundaries. By embracing the principle of loving and praying for enemies, even when justified in disliking them, we can begin to resolve human conflicts.
The teachings of Jesus are unambiguous: goodness has no opposite, as it is a principle that leads to life. Even those perceived as enemies need life. The golden rule—treating others as one would like to be treated—provides a clear path to reconciliation. By adhering to this principle, individuals can emerge as true winners, even if it means sacrificing their lives.
Conclusion
The miracle of Jesus lies in His unparalleled example of love and sacrifice. The value of a person’s efforts is measured by the benefits they bring to others. Pursuing self-gratification is a worldly temptation that leads to destruction. By rejecting the blending of good and evil and embracing the teachings of Jesus, humanity can move toward true progress, defined not by dichotomies but by unity in truth and love.
Andrew Masuku is the author of Dimensions of a New Civilization, laying down standards for uplifting Zimbabwe from the current state of economic depression into a model for other nations worldwide. A decaying tree provides an opportunity for a blossoming sprout. Written from a Christian perspective, the book is a product of inspiration, bringing relief to those having witnessed the strings of unworkable solutions––leading to the current economic and social decay. Most Zimbabweans should find the book as a long-awaited providential oasis of hope, in a simple conversational tone.
The Print copy is now available at Amazon.com for $13.99
Also available as an e-copy at Lulu.com for $6.99