Results 1 - 2 of 2
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Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Ordered by Verse | ||||||
Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
1 | How can anyone be saved? | 1 Cor 2:14 | Hank | 61166 | ||
Makarios, to follow up your note and comment with a thought that comes to my mind, I'd append that one of the major reasons I'm so fond of the writings of C. S. Lewis and never seem to tire of reading him is this: C. S. Lewis didn't sit hard on any particular denominational seat, although he freely admitted to being a member of the Anglican faith. That he avoided becoming enmeshed in denominaional debate and broil, but was instead a powerful apologist for what he called "mere Christianity" accounts, in good measure, for his being accepted and respected by a broad spectrum of communions within Christendom. ..... There was a time following the formation of this forum -- as you, kalos, EdB, charis, prayon and other forum pioneers may recall -- when Lockman published as one of its prohibitions the introduction of purely denominational bias into posts entered on the forum. Eventually they relaxed this rule somewhat, but I have never thought it an especialy wise move. It is not only possible to engage in interactive Bible study on a medium such as this without having it sidetracked and diluted by endless inter-denominational debate and squabble, but it is highly desirable. This is not to say that doctrinal issues must be avoided at all costs. The Bible is doctrinal from beginning to end, i.e., the Bible is filled to the brim with didactics, doctrine, teaching -- they all are of essentially equal meaning. Being revelatory of the nature and will of God that He chose to make known to mankind, the Bible is a doctrinal or teaching book, but it is not a denominational manual, creed, confession or book of order. There are vast numbers of things that the Bible clearly teaches about which a majority of Christians are in general agreement, and as it happens, these things are by and large the things that we Christians hold dearest and view as being the truly vital points of our Christian faith. Yet the human appetite for strife and division among men is reflected on this forum no less vigorously than it is among nations of the world who subscribe to differing points of view and conflicting ideologies. Verbal arrows and those made of flint are both capable of inflicting harm. .... A denominational bias (or coloring or perspective) on various topics should not, I believe, be totally taboo on this forum. I think it fitting and proper that the points of Calvinism, for example, be enumerated and referenced, where applicable, by Scripture. The same treatment should be afforded Arminianism. The points for the doctrine and against the doctrine of the eternal security of the believer (perseverance of the saints) could be given and referenced by appropriate Scripture. And for water baptism, etc. But this should not be considered an open invitation to enter into an endless and fruitless debate among ourselves over any of these topics -- with its inevitable fall-out of ill will, discourtesy and name-calling, and hurt feelings. This type of behavior does not constitute proper Bible study and does not benefit anyone very much. The kind of study Bible or commentary that I like best, and perhaps you do too, is the work that maintains a balanced view of issues. When a biblical passage has two or more widely accepted interpretations, it will list all of them and explain the rationale behind each one. I like that. It gives me an opportunity to observe, interpret and decide which view seems to be more nearly the right one. But a study Bible or commentary worth its salt doesn't ramble on for 40 pages trying to shove a denominational bias down its readers' throats. I wouldn't give a nickel for that kind of rubbish. ..... Now, since Lockman advertises this forum as a study Bible vehicle, why should we permit or engage in the kind of "study notes that we would deplore in a printed study Bible or commentary. I've seen -- and so have you if you have been active on this forum for very long -- debates rage between two users about a subject on which neither agreed and about which neither knew very much to begin with. Would you put down your money for that kind of "study Bible?" No? Well, neither would I. --Hank | ||||||
2 | How can anyone be saved? | 1 Cor 2:14 | Mommapbs | 61295 | ||
Greetings Hank! Excellent remarks! I can always learn something when I read your posts! I am not responding to the note currently up so that others have a change to read it, but here is my reply: An old cliche fits for you dear brother "Wise men still seek Him!" Thank you for your insights and challenges to us! And thank you for bearing with us, especially those of us who are weak and need encouragement - Blessings, Mommapbs PS: I am so thankful for this Forum, it is my opportunity to grow and share with others what I have experienced in my walk with the Lord. The denominational stuff, is just that, "stuff." It fills but has no real substance! |
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