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NASB | 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one [Holy] Spirit we were all baptized into one body, [spiritually transformed--united together] whether Jews or Greeks (Gentiles), slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one [Holy] Spirit [since the same Holy Spirit fills each life]. [Rom 3:22; Gal 3:28] |
Subject: Baptized before serving in choir |
Bible Note: Dear Justme, In order to bring others properly into the discussion, let me offer some definition. The branch of study in theology that deals with the church is called ecclesiology. It deals with the doctrines of the origin, identity, discipline, polity, leadership, purpose, mission, and destiny of the church. The discussion of the distinction between the visible and the invisible church is a concept that deals with the question of the identity of the church. The idea of this dichotomy was first articulated by arguably the greatest theologian of Christendom, Augustine of Hippo in the early fifth century. John Calvin fleshed out the idea even further in the middle of the sixteenth century. Here's the basics: The visible church are the people that gather in Christ's name. These are the physical gatherings and accouterments of the corporate bodies. The invisible church, however, is made up of the elect -- past, present, and future. It is the perfect, holy, body of Christ. (God alone, who searches human hearts, knows who makes up the invisible church.) This distinction becomes clear in the various passages of Scripture that speak of the church. Justme, the problem of your assertions is not rooted in your belief in this doctrine. I do not doubt that you believe in this doctrine. However, you made these statements: "...I have seen souls being transformed by Jesus Christ..." "... The number of believers is growing every day..." "There are lots of 'tares' and they seem to be growing faster then ever before as well..." etc. Do you see the problem? The words "seen," "number," and "seem" don't have anything to do with the invisible church. The invisible church cannot be seen, numbered, or characterized by direct observation. You can only do those things with something that is visible. Consequently, I could only assume that your favorable characterizations were concerned the visible church. Such sentiments to which I could but strenuously disagree. Syncretism, pluralism, Socianism, relativism, subjectivism, humanism, autosoterism, etc. are more rampant in pulpits today than ever before. In Him, Doc |