Quote:
Originally Posted by OBW
And that is why I kept at it. My mind is only made up to be open when it comes to the earthly working of the church (assembly) and how we interact with people of all kinds, both Christian and non-Christian. Having your mind made up (closed) is how an Acts 15 council will never again happen. We're smarter than they were and do not need to think about it.
But I agree. If your mind is closed, then we are done.
|
I never said my mind was "closed" and I cannot leave your final word as accurate. "Closed" is your word...not mine. That is a misrepresentation. I have made up my mind and have no reason to change my mind based on our conversation. I believe the earthly working/s of today's church have created a mess to the extent that
in some cases scripture is relegated to a place less than authoritative and more akin to a "good idea." I'm not attributing this position to you but it is what I can see going on today.
Luke 17:3 Watch yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him. If he repents, forgive him.
Leviticus 19:17 Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.
Luke 17:3 and Leviticus 19:17 seem as clear as "
thou shalt not commit adultery." This truth should be spoken to the people. I don't mean to beat people over the head with it, which you again seem to misinterpret my position. According to Leviticus 17, rebuking a brother in sin is to love him. (Parents rebuke their children because they love them.)
So, as to "how we interact with people of all kinds, both Christian and non-Christian" the Word is clear about this too, as you have presented and I have agreed.
John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
In fact, the example assembly I cited, the pastor spoke very recently from I Cor. presenting what the Word says on sexual sin in the church. I believe this is the best approach. Present what the Bible says, and then you have a choice to make. You make up your own mind by the enlightenment and conviction of the Holy Spirit. He didn't give an ultimatum. To me it's not about what the church is going to do, but what are YOU, the sinning brother/couple going to do? This service ended with the taking of communion.
The Word applies to all. Me included.
Nell