I was puzzled after reading Conrad Kanagy’s column, “Faith’s a lot more than passing a test” (Nov. 3). Along with affirming a group’s decision that “they would rely on Scripture,” he suggested that differences in belief shouldn’t divide us. He’s right that someone confessing to a statement of belief doesn’t tell us whether they are “becoming one of those whom Jesus says in Matthew 5 will see the kingdom.” But when he implies that no exam about one’s beliefs is ever helpful or needful, I disagree. If someone’s answer on an exam shows that they hold a belief contrary to a teaching of Jesus, then they probably aren’t like Jesus in that area yet. It’s hard to grow in right practice without also growing in right belief.

Harold Miller, Broadway, Va.