Quote:
Originally Posted by Drake
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.
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You guys keep talking about "the denominations" like you really know something about them. Times have changed. Most denominations these days and all community churches I know of have no criteria for attending meetings or even for membership.
Superficially the LCM does not have any criteria for membership. But the fact is the LCM expects a lot of conformity to be a member in good standing. There is really, when you get right down to it, not much generality in the LCM.
The LCM is "most open" in the sense that they are looking to capture whomever they can. And since the LCM can't seem to get anyone saved they have to grab existing Christians where they can get them. So yeah, if you want to call that "open"... But the fact is the LCM is really not tolerant of differing beliefs. If you don't conform you will be dealt with in one way or another.
When you get right down to it, most non-LCM churches are much more open and tolerant of differing (not sinful) beliefs. They truly practice generality. Lee used to teach generality, but I never saw evidence of its practice. And the "one publication" bull pretty much put an end to any hope of it. The kite strings go all the way back to La Palma, and we know who is holding them.