Quote:
Originally Posted by Freedom
My approach to the topic of division is with the understanding that it is both inevitable and unavoidable at a broad level. Of course, the Bible speaks strongly against division, so I think with such an understanding, any concern over division needs to refocus on the scope of the actual problem. Lets look again at 1 Cor 1:10
[COLOR=Blue]Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
Notice here that I bolded among you. Who is the among you that Paul was referring to? I think that we all could agree that this was the local assembly at Corinth to whom Paul addressed his letter. So Paul was concerned with internal division/factions that were taking place.
I don't know about anyone else, but in consideration of the context of what Paul said here, I think the takeaway here is that we are primarily responsible for getting along with the Christians with whom we have regular fellowship. That seems completely reasonable to me. But some like Nee/Lee have used verses like this not as a reminder to look at themselves, but as a reason to judge and criticize other groups.
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I agree wholeheartedly.
I have seen many a brother in the GLA who could not get along with any local brothers, yet would boldly declare that they were "one with Brother Lee." They could pick up any of Lee's books and use them to judge the local elders and the whole church.
Now ... how could anybody in their right mind tell me that these characters were
not saying they were of Lee? What do they need to do, make a sandwich sign board with the words "I am of Lee" front and back, while repeating these same words as they walked in circles? How is this
not being divisive? How is this
not being "of men" and fleshly?
Yet these same dear brothers could call LSM and be promoted as heroes. LSM will give them a special place of honor at their trainings and conferences. You want to make a name for yourself in a far off land? Just claim that you are the only brother in town "on the ground, faithful to THE ministry."