House Church Talk - inclination toward ceremonial

[Dan Beaty]

Brad,

Thanks for the response. You are probably right in that we are not that far
apart.

My background in my mother's family included preoccupation with outward
appearances, not going to the movies etc. My mom was not afraid, however to
wear slacks, which some churches called "men's apparal."

I have seen both extreme ends of the spectrum in my lifetime. But in spite
of the many rules, rituals and ceremonies put upon believers in some
circles, I have also seen intense love for the Lord and His people
abounding.

My take on the NT is that since we are in the Spirit, we can obey the words
of the Lord as we best understand them. Ideally, we will be found
spontaneously doing the will of God from the heart, but if there was no need
for direction, the NT would have not even have needed to be written.

So, when I read, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus,"
I understand that this is something I can do because His Spirit is in me to
empower me. I do not have to do it in my own strength. Given each one's
level of progress and growth, we can all obey Him and His words -- unless we
resist or doubt them.

Sadly, today the average expectations are so low that drug, alcohol and
other addictions continue to hold on to many in churches. In my experiences
working with homeless shelters and church-based programs, I have seen a
disturbing complacency in that area.

The answer as I see it for them and us as well is not stronger enforcement
of rules, but a stronger Gospel message. "We can do all things through
Christ Who strengthens us!"

Dan Beaty
Columbus, Ohio
www.livingtruth.com

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Brad Cork" <brad at peoplecare.org.au>
>
I don't think that we are as far apart in our ideas as you might
think... in fact I would add that if we are truly led by the spirit we
will fulfill traditions and customs that are required as well...for me
it has to do more with our focus.. do we try and do the deeds in our own
strength because we have a list of things we think we have to do ... or
.. . do we walk in the spirit and find ourselves completeing the deeds
as a result... I prefer the latter  and to me that is the wonderful
thing about walking in the Spirit.. it just simplifies everything.

Have a great day,
Brad.



        ------- <><><> -------