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 A
preacher beginning work with a new congregation, recently formed
by separation from a more liberal group, received a phone call.
"The
trouble here was nothing but personal differences," he was
told. "There are no scriptural issues to justify the new
Church. Both groups believe and practice exactly the same
things."
"If
that is so," the preacher replied, "I have been
grossly misinformed." Being assured that it was so, the
preacher continued, "I want no part in such a farce. I will
worship with the old church at the next service.
This
somewhat startled the caller, but his rejoicing was short lived.
The preacher continued: "of course, since there is no
doctrinal differences between us, I will feel free to continue
teaching the scriptures re. the independence and autonomy of
each local church; and to warn brethren about all entanglements
in interchurch associations and institutions." That did
it!! The caller made it clear that such teaching would not be
welcomed, and the older church would continue to support with
money and
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influence the various churchhood projects.
They would continue to work collectively with
"area-wide" movements, and use the church treasury for
social functions "to hold the young people." In
essence, you may come meet with us, contribute your money to
support these unscriptural practices; but you must not raise
your voice against any of this, nor will we agree to open Bible
studies of the issues.
Just
personal differences?? Who do we think we are kidding? Not God,
for He can not be deceived. Not those who object to practices
for which there is no Bible authority. As stubborn as some of us
may be, we know the difference in "Come let us reason
together" and "Come back, apologize, shut up, and let
us continue in our own way." I am persuaded that not many
"promoters" are successfully kidding themselves. They
only fool the self-blinded, easy-going majority — who had
rather sail smoothly into error, than rock the boat with
investigation.
My
hearts desire and prayer to God for my erring brethren is, that
they might open their eyes to truth.
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