Do You Know What We Believe?
This sounds like a question that you might think that a "DUH!! would be
the obvious retort. Sadly, there are many in this world that does not know what
we believe and why we believe it. What might be sadder is the fact that some
of our own members do not know what we believe and why.
This past week, the name of our congregation appeared in a list of the Ranger
United Ministries as participating at the First Baptist Church for a special
program.
It is not our intention to say anything against this group, as they do a wonderful
job in assisting those who need assistance. They are doing what all Christians
should be doing by helping others in their needs. This benevolence is a responsibility
of each individual as we have ability and opportunity.
We do not fellowship this group for several reasons.
First, there is no scriptural authority to involve anything other than the local
church in acts of benevolence as far as any structured organizations go. To
join with other groups makes the organization larger than the local church,
thus unscriptural.
Second, the other groups participating in this ministry do not teach the same
doctrine as we teach. 2 John warns about offering godspeed or greetings to those
who do not carry the same doctrine about the Christ. The other groups do not
respect the authority of scripture as we try to do, and their understanding
of the plan of salvation leaves out several parts of what God reveals as His
plan.
This ministry and the community at large see nothing wrong with the concept
and might think it strange that we would not participate. I am quite sure that
the appearance in the newspaper of our name will not affect anyone in any way
that is noticeable or that might cause a problem of wondering what we preach,
teach, and practice.
Most people are ignorant of what we teach. But, it is not for lack of effort
on our part (I hope). The local newspaper has been gracious to publish articles
that have been submitted, and the citizens of Eastland County could know what
we believe by reading those articles. To my knowledge, only one couple has visited
to meet the person writing those articles.
The nagging question has to be this: what if someone asked you what we believe
here at Eastside. Would you be able to give an answer? 1 Peter 3:15 tells us
that we are to sanctify Christ as Lord, and be ready to give an answer for the
hope that is in us, yet with meekness and fear. If you are not sure you could
answer questions about our beliefs, you have just convicted yourself, and need
to do some serious study.
We must also consider that we have a duty to share our knowledge with others.
And we really should not have to wait until we are asked a question. These are
precious souls, and we should be seeking their better welfare. Let us all resolve
to remove doubt about what we believe to those in our community.
By Carey Scott
Return to the General Articles page
Home / Bible studies / Bible Survey / Special Studies / General Articles / Non-Bible Articles / Sermons / Sermon Outlines / Links / Questions and Answers / What Saith The Scriptures /Daily Devotional / Correspondence Courses / What is the Church of Christ / Book: Christian Growth / Website Policy / E-mail / About Me /