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Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists murmured against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. (Acts 6:1)
We also see that many difficulties were experienced by upstart Saint Paul in Galatia. He differed with Saint Peter over circumcision and the eating of kosher foods. In Jerusalem Paul strove hard for acceptance over against the apostolic authority of Peter, James and John. These instances speak of early apostolic discord. The three apostles, who were founders of the Church by virtue of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost... thought of Paul suspiciously. It took several years and meetings before he was accepted. You can see by past history that the road ahead for the Church will still be filled with potholes. Consequently, railing today against such isolationist behaviors, we read the scriptural admonitions from Paul to the churches in Asia Minor…
… for you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh, and behaving like ordinary men? 4 For when one says, “I belong to Paul,” and another, “I belong to Apollos,” are you not merely men? (1 Cor 3:4)
In keeping with a common faith, therefore, I believe we Christians are instructed to first take our disagreements directly to one another and attempt reconciliation. Failing in that task, we are told by scripture to point out our misalignments to the elders. They are called to decide the future track to be taken. Thus, we of the Church can yet try to motor ahead. |
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We are beckoned to look forward rightfully and collectively declaring both the Law and the Gospel to the world around us. However, necessary reconciliation is not always forthcoming... and a particular entity may be declared by leadership and others as unyielding and apostate. The offender then becomes an outside, evil force standing in opposition to the scriptural mandates given to the Church. For example, my stance as a Lutheran pastor finds expression in proper opposition to the ordination of LGBTQ ministers, especially those who exist in “married” relationships… and also rampant endorsement of pro-choice abortion politics and |
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