We who preach the gospel must not think of ourselves as public relations agents sent to establish good will between Christ and the world. We must not imagine ourselves commissioned to make Christ acceptable to big business, the press, the world of sports or modern education. We are not diplomats but prophets, and our message is not a compromise but an ultimatum. A.W. Tozer
Therefore let God-inspired Scripture decide between us; and on whichever side be found doctrines in harmony with the word of God, in favor of that side will be cast the vote of truth. --Basil of Caesarea
Once you learn to discern, there's no going back. You will begin to spot the lie everywhere it appears.

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service. 1 Timothy 1:12

Sunday, October 25, 2015

Biblical Love Confronts and Exposes Error


Biblical love does not mean that I ignore things that people do that are wrong and injurious.  This is true both in the physical and spiritual realms.  For example, to love a murderer, in a biblical sense, does not mean that we ignore his crime.  It means that we put him to death for his horrible trespass agains the image of God (Genesis 9:5-6).  Likewise, to love a false teacher does not mean that I turn a blind eye to his error and strive to have unity with him regardless of his doctrine.  It means that I obey the Bible and mark and avoid him (Romans 16:17), that I expose his error publicly to protect those who might be led astray by his teaching.


David W. Cloud, Contemporary Christian Music Under the Spotlight, pg. 168

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Wise words. I know Cloud is KJVO, but he does have some good points, if you sift through the legalisms.

-Carolyn

Glenn E. Chatfield said...

Yep, KJVO and legalistic.

But this book has a lot of good information about the problems with contemporary "Christian" music, including the ideologies and morality of the writers, etc. Good reference source.

Anonymous said...

Your title pertains to relationships at home too. I only know ive been so wrong even when confronted with error. I ask to be humble, to turn around in repentance and be renewed. But still the same stiff-necked, arrogant fool. I ask for mercy for i was going to church faithfully, not knowing i was being judgmental, fault finding, provoking my kids so they turn to those dota games... Now God knows i didnt take heed, and am not standing now.. please, may fervent prayer of some righteous men help lift up in prayer, and heal heart and body, not grieve the Spirit. What is the good of knowing many of His songs by heart, but not living them after all. May God have mercy.

Glenn E. Chatfield said...

Anonymous,

You are correct; the title really applies to our entire life. I think all of us have violated this principle at one time or another.

Anonymous said...

May God have mercy.