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NASB | Ephesians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, ¶ To the saints who are at Ephesus and who are faithful in Christ Jesus: |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Ephesians 1:1 Paul, an apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative) of Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed), by the will of God [that is, by His purpose and choice], To the saints (God's people) who are at Ephesus and are faithful and loyal and steadfast in Christ Jesus: |
Subject: Membership Only! |
Bible Note: Greetings WilBo, You know, anyone who does not wish to have his heresies condemned or his sins exposed usually counters his would-be opposition with these words of Christ, "Judge not, that you be not judged" (Matthew 7:1, KJV). These words, however, cannot legitimately be construed to be a sacred defense behind which all manner of evil can operate without fear of rebuke. Christ does not prohibit forming opinions about others, and in this same chapter He instructs His disciples to discern between false and true teachers, saying, "By their fruit you shall know them" (Matthew 7:15-20). The products of one's life are a criterion for discerning whether he is a false teacher to be shunned or a Biblical teacher to be followed. Furthermore, Jesus Christ taught in Jerusalem's temple, "Judge not according to appearance, but judge righteous judgment" (John 7:24). He not only told the assembly to make distinctions, but He also gave them a basis for the distinctions- righteousness. In fact, the Christian who does not make Biblical distinctions between righteousness and evil leaves himself vulnerable to Satan's intrigue. For this reason, the Apostle Paul wrote, "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil" (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22). The person who refuses to test his life in this manner, preferring instead a 'laissez-faire' ethic, robs himself of the abundant life that Christ promises. Therefore, we stand completely justified in the judgment according to righteousness that becomes a necessity to make in regards to many aspects of society. But in regards to the woman in your church, if attendance is the only issue that is presented as being an offense to the rest of the congregation, then yes, she would be at fault if there were no legitimate reason for her absence, depending upon the length of her absence. But I do not believe that the issue of attendance alone would be able, in and of itself, to strip a church member of their abilities to function within the church, unless there was no advance notice given of her absence, and no advance notice given of her return. In that case, if there was no notice given, then I can see where the Board and the Pastor would be entirely justified in asking her, "Where have you been all this time?" in regards to her membership status, expecting to receive an answer from her that would justify the complaint. Blessings to you, Makarios |