Denominationalism

[rancherforChrist]

Hello everyone,

There is so much to read in all of the responses to this topic. So, I'm just going to go the simple way with this. There is a scripture that the Lord brought to my mind this morning as I was reading some of the responses that you all have posted. I believe this one scripture will answer the questions that need to be answered. I hope you all will consider this scripture.

Philippians 2:5-11
5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

The very first statement made in this scripture tells not only why I live the way I live, but it also tells how all who seek to come after Jesus are required to live. I say "required", because it is not a request that has been made. It is a way that has been opened to each person through Jesus, and each person will either walk in that way or not. There is no middle ground. There is cold or hot. God said that He would vomit luke warm water out of His mouth. There is one way and only one way, and His name is Jesus. Here's that important statement: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus". This scripture explains it very thoroughly. I did nothing, but this scripture is what God did in my life and is what He would like to do in yours. If you want to disregard me, that's ok with me. How I live and what I do is not the issue here. What Jesus did and how He lived is what's really important. It is His example that is perfect. He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. If you want to look closely at someone's life, then let it be the life of Christ Himself, not my life. If you looked at my life, you would find what a wicked, wretched man I have truly been. If you look at the life of Jesus, you will see perfection and freedom. You will see the Way.

I love you all,
Chris

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Hello Strefanash,

I just want to clarify something. In my original thread, my intent was in no way to make this an issue about hierarchy vs. anarchy. The real issue is hierarchy vs. unity, unity within the body of Christ. Hierarchy brings division within the body. Hierarchy promotes self. As the head of the body, Jesus has all authority over us, and yet, He desires to be in a relationship of mutual love and respect with us, rather than to rule over us. One can use whatever spiritual authority they have through Christ, to rule over others within the body, or, they can choose to limit themselves as Jesus limited Himself, and they can become servants.

It's nice to meet you Strefanash.

Love ya,
Chris