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NASB | Exodus 20:14 ¶ "You shall not commit adultery. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Exodus 20:14 ¶ "You shall not commit adultery. [Prov 6:25, 26; Matt 5:27, 28; Rom 1:24; Eph 5:3] |
Bible Question:
Charis, Thank you for your biblical and straightforward response. You are correct in that I tend not to have faith in men/women of any stripe - whether they be doctors, clergy or anything else. Your biblical reference pinpointed this problem. As a thinking person, though, I am not sure how to overcome this. My observation, personally and from history, is that clergy are just as prone to error and self-will as the rest of us. Must I ignore history and personal observation? If not, how can I, in good faith, "Obey your leaders and submit to them"? Even Paul commended his listeners when they compared what he said with the scriptures, to see if they lined up (Acts 17:11). Jesus directed us to be as wise as serpents yet as harmless as doves (Matthew 10:16). How can we balance obedience and submission with discernment and wisdom? Obviously clergy who incite violence at abortion clinics should not be followed, and there are many other examples, both contemporary and historical. How is this reconciled with submission and obedience? If I say that I will submit and obey only in as much as what they say lines up with the Bible, then there is always room for contention on minor points of doctrine and practice. If I say I will submit and obey even in contradiction to the Bible, as long as the issue is minor - then how can I be sure what is minor in the Lord's eyes? The above paragraph is an attempt to clarify my dilemna in hopes of a usefull response and subsequent solution. I am confident that with His blessing, through the written word, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and brethren who are vessels of His blessing, this attitude can be changed to one which pleases Him. Thanks, Listener |
Bible Answer: Dear Listener, Greetings in the name of Jesus! My friend, your honesty is disarming! I, too, have much experience with clergy and professional ministers that are unworthy of trust. As a 'fellow' minister (but because I am a 'lay' pastor, I am not *completely* accepted into the clique! :-)), I sometimes see a side of the clergy that is hidden from the 'laity.' I am ashamed for those that do not know how to be ashamed. But, nonetheless, the Word of God requires us all to honor and obey those in spiritual authority. As Christians, this respect must be without reservation or qualification. So, God's people have a certain abount of responsibility to find God's chosen leaders. The problem is not just a lack of shepherd-like shepherds. There is also a dearth of sheep-like sheep! All I can say, Listener, is that you MUST search (by the leading of the Holy Spirit) until you find a pastor who will shepherd you. God requires it. Soulish or intellectual satisfaction are not enough. Convenience or tradition are not good enough for God's people. Good music, good school or good programs will not feed you what you really need. The local church must be a *family* of God. Any good family needs a pillar, chosen (called) by the Lord. Bless you in this quest! In Christ Jesus, charis |