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Originally Posted by KeptByTheWord
Very interesting article indeed. I find the reference to number ten highlighting what I think is wrong with the majority of the OPs.
10. Out-Of-Context Scripture Use as Proof-Texts/Segmented Biblical Attention: Cults tend to focus on one verse or passage of the Bible to the exclusion of others, and without regard for the context in which Scripture is given (e.g., 1 Cor. 15:29 used by Mormons to justify baptism for the dead). In addition, cults have made an art form out of using Christian terminology, all the while pouring out their own meanings into the words.
One scripture I know for a fact they have based almost their entire movement on (women wearing dresses) is found in Duet. 22:5. They've taken that scripture out of the Torah, excluded all the other laws, and based a huge movement on that scripture. Then they take one chapter in Corinthians and base their doctrine on uncut hair out of that chapter, again, that kind of teaching not found anywhere else in scripture. I could go on... and I wouldn't even have a problem with people believing these things as a personal conviction, but then when it is taught as salvational, then that is where the road splits for me. |
I'll be more extreme. lol
I can respect a person's personal convictions. But I still have a problem with even their personal convictions if they are spiritually dangerous. Paul wrote to the Galatians,
Galatians 3:1-4 (KJV)
1 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?
2This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
3Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?
4Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain.
It is a grave error to embrace the notion that one is now made perfect by the fleshly ordinances or standards of the law and/or the traditions of man. The Holy Magic Hair doctrine is occultism. Witchcraft. Why respect one's personal conviction with regards to practicing witchcraft? Paul was this hard on the Galatians for circumcision; imagine how hard he'd have been if they were practicing witchcraft like the Holy Magic Hair doctrine and/or voodoo dolls. And while I believe in modesty and decency, to legislate a certain style of dressing isn't commanded in the NT. Yes, we should have people cover themselves and not wear anything excessively tight. Enough said. We don't see Paul talking about "ankle length" or anything like that. So why should we? Modesty is modesty. Cover yourself respectfully and don't make clothing too tight or provocative. If someone asks, "How do I know if it's decent enough to wear?" Tell them it's obvious that if they're asking the question there is some doubt in their mind as to it's modesty. Explain how this is the Holy Spirit speaking to them. Teach them to listen to the Spirit!!!
Since modesty is a Christian discipline and not necessarily salvational, wait until the next gathering and make a few gentle statements about modesty. Mention things that you think are not necessarily modest. Explain how being modesty displays love for your neighbor. Because who would want to incite someone they love to lust? If in a small group, allow everyone to share their thoughts. Conviction will fall on those who have violated modesty. If someone continues to be immodest you might want to address them in private with a trusted brother or a sister by your side. If they continue to be immodest... bring it before the gathering and have a vote with regards to the individual remaining a member in good standing. The vote will reveal the body's desire. As an elder, it would be your responsibility to enforce their will, seeing that you are a servant to the congregation much like an elected official is a servant to their constituents.