Subject: 1Peter 2:1 |
Bible Note: Your outlook is a very good one. Love is what sets true believers apart from all others who profess to be believers. Your question helped me to take a closer look at ‘fellowship’ and ‘believers.’ This verse came to mind: "Finally, all [of you] should be of one and the same mind (united in spirit), sympathizing [with one another], loving [each other] as brethren [of one household], compassionate and courteous (tenderhearted and humble)." 1 Peter 3:8 (AMP) What stands out in this verse is ‘one and the same mind (united in spirit). True believers have that one and same mind towards Truth because they are submitted to and led by God. There may be different levels of faith (new converts to mature saints), but everyone (of the true Church) is united in spirit, by the Spirit. We believe in one God, three manifestations: the Father, Word, and the Holy Spirit (1 John 5:7). We believe that God came in the flesh (born of a virgin) to die for the sins of the world. We believe that Jesus resurrected on the third day. We believe that God, manifested as the Holy Spirit, dwells in every baptized (not water) believer. We believe that Jesus in the only mediator between man and God (1 Timothy 2:5). We believe that Jesus will return. What do we call those who believe something other than the truth? What if they believe in a god and not God? Are they still believers? I haven’t found a religion yet that doesn’t have some erroneous teaching and doctrines. However, knowing that God loves every one of us equally, whether, catholic, non-denomination, Jew, Mormon, Jehovah's Witness, sinner, etc., we are to love these souls unconditionally. God is not partial when it comes to saving souls. It's not good enough, in God's eyes, that one believes in something; one must believe that God is God (Hebrews 11:6). I believe God places different ones in our lives so that we can be used by Him to bring them into the light of the Truth. Afterall, it is not God's will that any should perish and this should be our will also. Thanks for this opportunity to share my views and let me know your thoughts. WalkingTalkingBible |