Why Good Distinctions?
Why distinctions clarify rather than divide
The classic social rule is: “don’t talk about religion, politics, or money in polite conversation.” This rule, such as it is, is aimed at avoiding conflict. Yet, how many of us have no strong opinions regarding religion, politics, or money? I’d guess: none!
For so long, it seems that the prevailing convention is to avoid such conversations because religion and politics inevitably lead to war, literally or metaphorically. Or so the convention goes.
I contend, though, that when discussed properly these topics can clarify rather than divide. When the proper distinctions are employed and when conversations are entered into in good faith, then those speaking can actually begin to learn from each other. Anytime we are willing to stop talking and start listening, we stand a chance of learning something new.
At the very least, by listening, we begin to understand the person that we are speaking with all the better. Instead of seeing stick figure ideologies, we can contend charitably with actual concerns, opinions, and ideas of those with a perspective different from our own.
Why theology gets caricatured without them
Without good distinctions, theology gets caricatured. If you share the Catholic worldview, then you will have heard this old chestnut: “Catholics worship Mary.”
Cue the groans and eye rolls.
Of course, Catholics do not worship Mary. We honor her as the highest of the saints as the pinnacle of creatures. But a creature she remains (though reigning as Queen of Heaven and Earth). So, what is the distinction? The Church has many, but we could mention the differences between latria (the praise due only to God), dulia (high honor and esteem given to the saints), and hyperdulia (the highest esteem given to a creature, reserved for the Blessed Virgin Mary).
The Catholic and Christian Faith is built upon good distinctions such as the Marian one just discussed. All of the great Trinitarian and Christological controversies of the first millennium of Christianity sought the necessary distinctions to understand the Trinity, the hypostatic union, the nature of worship, and a great many other weighty and vital topics.
If we do not seek out good distinctions, then we silo ourselves in various ways. More often than not, this is the heart of the reason that every heretic or schismatic left the one Church of Christ. They were unwilling to make good distinctions and remain rooted in truth and charity.
Why Good Distinctions exists
The desire for truth and charity is what drives Good Distinctions. As a theologian, I research fairly nuanced questions in Catholic theology. The more I learn, the more I realize that I do not know. I also realize the importance of coming back to the basics. But basic does not always mean simple. Many of the teachings contained in the Catechism of the Catholic Church are laid out beautifully, but they are not necessarily simple. God desires the salvation of all (1 Tim 2:3-4) and the teachings, while complex, are not unknowable.
Good Distinctions does not exist to provide commentary on everything that happens in the world or the Church. It does not exist to cast judgement on anyone. It exists to allow the truth and clarity of the Catholic Church to be seen by ever more individuals. Preaching the Gospel is the necessary occupation of every Christian. As someone who studies the Faith for a living, I want to share freely what I have been freely given.
I hope that you enjoy the insights that I bring and the fruits of my research. In the end, I hope that everything published here brings you closer to our Blessed Lord. Good distinctions draw us closer to the truth and thereby closer to Christ. He is the aim of all our endeavors at Good Distinctions.