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NASB | Romans 16:16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Romans 16:16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you. |
Subject: Visit other churches? |
Bible Note: Dear Hank, Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus! I just woke up this fine Sunday morning (weather-wise a bit cold and dreary, but the day of assembly before God!) to 7 (count 'em!) answers to my question! As you are the first to ask 'the question' you will be the first to receive 'the answer.' (I wonder how long I can stretch this out without making someone upset?) Now, the problem is that if my answer is not sufficiently profound, I might get 'booed!' ...where was I?... :-) Actually, the main reason asked was because I was curious, as stated. It has to do with a 'theory' that has been formulating in my heart (brain?) about the state of the church in this present age. I have sensed a bipolar movement of relationship to the local church of either 1) allegience to a 'religious entity,' often part of a larger denomination, or 2) little or no allegience to anything but whim, circumstance, job, and a personal understanding of 'God's will.' The first, I do not find to be 'wrong,' except that some (not all!) of this type do tend to be a little 'xenophobic' and judgemental toward 'other' Christians, especially those of different creeds. Another type of person in this category can be guilty of worshipping their leaders(s) or their 'creed' to the exclusion of any other assembly, and sometimes to the point of not loving (or denying) their fellow Christian. These extremes do not lead anybody to the 'unity of the faith.' The second type is a bit scary, where each man 'walks his own path.' Many of these are disenchanted members of the first category, but because of one situation or another have done a 'radical pendulum-swing' against the authority and blessing of the local church assembly. (makes you wonder what kind of 'weight' was on their pendulum or plum-bob!?) Some churches even cater to this kind of behavior (marketing?) and have made a way to get plenty of money with no strings attached, i.e. responsibility. In any case, my friend, I completely agree that the church needs faithful, committed sheep, and sheep need a faithful, committed church, complete with a conscientious, holy leadership! My 'poll' was no reflection on any particular member of our forum fellowship, but I do think that this past year of 30K plus postings show some of this attitude in the church. Of course, most of those that are 'committed' here, are (or should be!) committed to a local assembly. Many blessings to all, and thank you for your patience with me this past year! In Christ Jesus, charis |