Tag Archives: divisions

“Really” Saved

How would you determine that someone is saved?  In most of the churches I have been in the primary requirement for membership is to be saved.  Of course, everyone who comes to the church says that they are saved, but … Continue reading

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Filed under Church, Legalism, Relationship

Ad Hominem

  Ad Hominem is a Latin term that means “against the man.”  It is used to refer to a logical fallacy that subverts the argument by focusing on the person rather than the idea.  Here’s an example: Esau:  I think … Continue reading

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Filed under Relationship, Theology and mystery

Because of Love

  Some years ago cards were written that were to be used for sharing the faith with friends and family.  I remember the outside of the card more than the inside.  It said, “Because I care…”  Why do we tell … Continue reading

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Filed under grace, heart, Legalism, Theology and mystery

Good People can have Bad Ideas

  The Presbyterian Church is going through a hard time these days.  In one recent mailing from folks who are critical of the movements in that denomination I found this line: “…it is difficult to critique ideas without being accused … Continue reading

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Filed under Church, Freedom, Theology and mystery

Can’t We All Just Get Along?

“People, I just want to say, you know, can we all get along?”  About a year after the incident in which he was stopped by police for speeding, Rodney King asked this question.  Because of the tragic actions of the … Continue reading

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Filed under Church, Narcissism, Relationship

What if it is heresy?

What should you do if you believe someone is teaching something that is not only wrong, but dangerous to the body of Christ?  Well, let’s start by saying that there are lots of heretics out there.  Why would this one … Continue reading

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Filed under Church, Theology and mystery

Can I be friends with both sides?

Can I be friends with both sides?  Why not?  Oh, wait, I know.  You find it hard because one side wants to claim you as theirs and so does the other; and, if you choose one of them, the other … Continue reading

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Filed under Church, Freedom, Theology and mystery

When do we stop?

 Even though I tend to use words like “fight” or “argue” without negative connotation, the truth is that the more polemic (my side vs your side) the discussion becomes, the less value it has.  If the discussion is causing you … Continue reading

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Filed under Church, Theology and mystery

Do I have to go to the teacher first?

 Very often, when Christians disagree with a popular teacher, someone will bring up the “Biblical requirement” that the accusers should have gone to the person before publically stating their disagreement.  They refer to a couple of verses in Matthew 18.  … Continue reading

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Filed under Church, Theology and mystery

You… you… you… heretic!

Beware – some may not like this post! These days many countries in the Middle East are in turmoil.  On the news we see the videos of the protestors holding signs, screaming angry words, and overturning cars and statues.  Sometimes … Continue reading

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Filed under Uncategorized