[Cal]

LSM's doctrine of "taking the cross" is unscriptural. The Bible teaches us to be obedient to God's commandments and to live according to the Holy Spirit. It doesn't emphasize "taking the cross" in the way LSM means it. In one place Jesus did tell us to "take up our cross and follow him." But this was his telling us that true obedience would sometimes lead us to discomfort and even pain and death.

LSM's version of "taking the cross" is simply one more tool they use to keep people's mouths shut and maintain order. The fact is true obedience and walking in the Spirit sometimes demand that we speak and not be silent. But in LSM's twisted, tightly-spinning world, "taking the cross" always means shutting up.

Jesus was silent going to the cross because the time had come for him to suffer for redemption. At that point there was nothing for him to say, the cup had being given to him, and the Jews and Romans couldn't do anything for him, and wouldn't listen anyway. But before that, Jesus often rebuked the halls of power with fervor, as did many prophets before him, as Steve is doing now.

Kangas is trying to shut people up with his "taking the cross" teaching. One might think he would apply the teaching to himself and shut himself up occasionally. But, alas, apparently he and his cohorts get to speak out when they see what they consider "unrighteousness" or "death," but no one else does. Neat trick.

These guys have gotten so far out in the weeds it has become silly.