Quote:
Originally Posted by HeavenlyOne
The problem I have with your assessment of the situation is that you liken the saints to children who aren't responsible for their own actions and the ministry as those who are responsible. That's now how it is. We are all responsible for our own salvation. The pastor can tell us the guidelines according to the Bible, but it's up to us to obey them. He shouldn't hit us over the head if we don't listen. It's our own responsibility.
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Watchmen on the watchtower have a perspective that those who are not on the watchtower do not have.
Like it or not, the ministry has a God given responsibility to reprove, rebuke, and correct.
I'll be the first to admit that my one analogy does not fit all situations. New born babes in the Lord do not know all of the dangers that they might face, whereas seasoned saints who know the word are more knowledgeable. Hence, a mother might be quicker to scold a teenager that has been warned about something over and over again.
I'm aware that some do not take correction well.
Heb 12:8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Pro 15:10 Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.
But for wise men...
Pro 9:8 Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.
Finally...
Pro 13:24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.