Wednesday, December 28, 2011

FILTERED LISTENING

This morning, I read a Facebook article attacking several prominent preachers for their stance on the doctrine of salvation. The author claimed to be "speaking in love," while he says things like "Billy Graham is of the Devil." In addition, he stated that the Southern Baptist Convention is an apostate organization because they teach a false Gospel.

My first reaction was anger. After all, I was ordained a minister by a Southern Baptist Church and I served as Pastor of one for two years. Once I "calmed down," I realized that the person's view was, at least partially, based upon ignorance. Of the 35,000 or so Southern Baptist Churches, I feel quite comfortable stating that there is a distinct possibility there are no two alike! Of course they are similar in doctrine, in practice, and in organizational structure, but each has its own uniqueness, its own identity.

As for his comment about Billy Graham, he bases his attack on Graham's Masonic membership, his willingness to discuss theology with the Pope (which he describes as Satanic), and the fact Graham claims to have "gay" friends. While I would agree with his concerns about Graham's association with the Masons, if they are true, I would think the fact that Graham's Crusades had reached millions with the Gospel would outweigh one area of his life. As for Graham's associating with the leader of the world's largest religion, a religion which, although preaching a false Gospel, presents Jesus as a member of the Trinity, virgin born, crucified, buried, and risen to reign over creation one day, I would remind him that Jesus constantly associated with the Pharisees and Sadducees. And, how are we supposed to lead homosexuals to Christ if we refuse to love them? It is almost as though the author believes he is to have no contact with anyone who does not agree him on virtually every area of doctrine.

The Bible teaches a totally different view. Luke wrote: "These (Bereans) were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" (Acts 17:11). They were noble because they were willing to listen.

Paul wrote: "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things" (Phil. 4:8). In other words, "filter out" the "dross," and keep the "gold." Paul also wrote: "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good" (1 Thes. 5:21).

From what Luke and Paul wrote, I believe we are to listen to the message; compare what is said with the Word of God; accept what matches; reject what does not match; and correct the messenger in humility and the love of Christ. We should always be "Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Eph. 4:3).

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