Quote:
Originally Posted by Boxjobox
Drake, maybe if you would answer some questions, I could get a better feel of your working definitions of some terms and ideas you present:
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Ok Boxjobox. I was considering a more detailed response to your previous note as my next entry to you but let's discuss your questions.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Boxjobox
What is your history with LSM, how have you interacted with them?
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No different than most local churches (exempting for the moment your experience). I read their publications, I go to their conferences, their trainings, I participate in some of their evangelization initiatives. My library has almost everything... but not exclusively. I have a big personal library.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Boxjobox
What is the affiliation of the church in your city with LSM, and on what basis do they interact?
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Same as most. Speaking for all the local churches I have been a part for over forty years my observation is that LSM is a service provider in the work of ministry, meaning they provide teachings through spiritual materials in the form of books, organize conferences, when invited come to a local church to speak. If a local church feels inspired they can also sponsor the radio broadcast. Where invited they will distribute Bibles for free, send you free Bibles and other material to distribute if requested. They will assist in setting up gospel outreach. The co-workers are precious brothers, in my home for meals and fellowship from time to time.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Boxjobox
If the elders (I'll add with the fellowship of the local saints) decided not to have any interaction with LSM, would you still meet with them?
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Yes, if they did not deviate from the scriptural model of a local church, did not become a denomination, received all believers, etc. However, having rejected the work of ministry they were receiving up and to that I would be keen to understand what work of ministry we would now be part of. I shared before that I lived in a city that had broke away from the ministry of Brother Lee and started their own ministry for their region. When I asked to join their meetings, not wanting to start a new local church they said "we'll ask our leaders, don't call us we'll call you". They never called. At that point, they lost the basis as a local church since they refused to accept all believers in that city. So the answer is yes, but if that local church became something different then of course I would not meet with them no matter whose ministry they adopted (their own or another).
Quote:
Originally Posted by Boxjobox
If LSM closed shop, what do you think would happen to your definition of ministry?
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Nothing. No change. My definition of the work of ministry is from the Bible. There is a work of ministry and I would still expect the Lord to provide one to supply the local churches. I intimated this when I said even if the leading ones in the ministry were to depart from this way that I would by the Lord's mercy and grace continue in it.
Thanks
Drake