Quote:
Originally Posted by Ohio
The LC's are not the only ones that speak out about idolatry. In this regard the whole of the evangelical community is together. I never heard of anyone criticizing the LC's for speaking out against idolatry, at least when idols are limited to graven images. I'm also surprised you have not addressed the Eastern Orthodox churches for their icons.
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Yup Ohio, throw in the idolatry of the Eastern Orthodox and the Anglican church for good measure.
I also agree that the local churches are not the only ones that speak out against idolatry of the aforementioned. Though you "...never heard anyone criticizing the local churches for speaking out against idolatry,..." nevertheless the local churches are frequently criticized in this forum for not embracing such groups for a variety of objectionable practices and matters of belief or conscience.
I'd concur with the perception that the local churches are narrow in what they ingest but that is their prerogative according to their understanding of the scriptures. There is nothing in the beliefs and practices of the local church that is sinful, idolatrous, or divisive. Toward all believers they are the most open to receive them and do not apply the criterion that denominations often do as a condition of fellowship and membership.
By definition, the church and the churches are not ecumenical, yet, many times the false accusation of division leveled against the local churches in this forum sound like an argument in favor of ecumenical unity and not the oneness spoken of in the Bible.