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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, (and I guess this will have to do for all the others that replied, because our Sunday morning service will start in an hour :-)) Greetings in Jesus' name! I realized that I did not make any comment about why (or why not) we might visit other churches. I am in favor of visiting other churches once in a while. In fact, in the summer months we do not have evening services, and I encourage our fellowship to visit a variety of other churches in our neighborhood. Of course, here in Japan there are few other churches. :-( My belief is that we should see how others worship and fellowship in order to broaden our own relationship with God. Though I am far from 'loose' in my doctrine, I do believe that it is difficult to practice the 'tolerance' and 'patience' toward the brethren encouraged in the Bible if we only go by heresay and bigotry. Another reason is the 'competition for souls' I see in this day of seeking bigger and bigger congregations. There is a spirit of 'vying' I see that reminds me of K-mart and Wal-mart. Sadly, I do not see the remaining contender as the victor! One other thing I have seen that shocks me is that when someone goes on vacation, they don't go to church. I hear many reasons for this, but none seem very faithful. (to me) Please note that I don't think any of the above (or other post) is an excuse for not being a faithful, committed member of a local church. The 'extra-curricular forays' I am talking about are for the benefit of Jesus' church! When we visit another assembly, it should not be to measure, judge, or 'prove our ideas.' We should go with an attitude of humility, blessing them, thereby enhancing our knowledge of God and His people. In a way, this forum has done so to me! :-) In Christ Jesus, charis |