Quote:
Originally Posted by leastofthese
That is not the spirit of the book at all. In the introduction he says, "we encourage healthy skepticism that leads to fact finding and truth" "Every Good author writes in order to bring about positive meaningful change" "Pagan Christianity? was not written to divide the body of Christ". "We believe that some pagan practices are neutral and can be redeemed for God's glory" "Also, we do not believe that just because a practice has pagan roots, it is wrong"
These don't sound like divisive prejudices - If you read the book, you already realized this.
This quote from "Pagan Christianity?" may help give you insight to Igzy's quote: "serious Christians do not have divisive prejudices anymore".
"Most readers, however, responded positively, saying things like, "This book articulated what I've been feeling about the church for many years. And it gave me biblical and historical merit for those feelings". Interestingly, George and I received countless letters from pastors saying the same thing"
I have never experienced more judgement and divisiveness then my time in the LSM denomination.
On a similar note: have you seen what Viola has to say about Witness Lee and his "Local Church movement"?
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The book is saying the exact same things we say. That denominations are sectarian, divisive and unbiblical. I have written this many times on this forum. In fact the information in the book sounds like it was quoted from one of Watchman Nee's books in the first place.
This is the very definition of hypocrisy:
When we say it or Lee writes it, it is prejudiced and divisive, according to Igzy et al.
When they write it in a book, the same things, that denominations are sectarian and divisive and unbiblical, it is not prejudiced and divisive (as you are now saying).
You have highlighted a difference however in their view and ours. We may disagree on pagan practices being "redeemed for God's glory". I don't think any practice of another religion, Hindu, Muslim, whatever, can be "redeemed for God's glory".
The book is essentially highlighting all the problems with Christianity today, yet what is more concerning is the book offers no advice about what to do about it. Christianity is pagan, let's call some things "neutral" and declare they can be "used for God's glory".