Sometimes pastors ask, say it's not salvational and then say people who don't comply are in rebellion. That makes people between a rock and a hard spot.
Indeed... That is a very successful method that allows for one to say "I never said that anyone had to do that" and yet have the same level of control without leaving themselves open to the ridicule that would come should they have actually gone ahead and make the statement.
In general, most of the responses have been what I anticipated. It is not logical instruction, without solid basis in scripture or scriptural principle, therefore compliance should not be expected. At best, it could be a request, but if mandated... it's stepping outside the reach of a healthy Pastor/saint relationship.
Now in truth, the question is not so much about eating red meat. As much as I love steak - I could satisfy an eating binge appetite at an all you can eat Lobster Fest joint and be a happy man.
Neither is it a question about being able to take the heat... I have very thick skin and broad shoulders, personally I can take the heat - and unfortunately sometimes enjoy it. But, I know in whom I have believed I will tenaciously cling to the doctrine of Christ and Him crucified for my sins - in spite of the baggage that may come my way from unlearned or ignorant brethren.
The real question is; Are we placing a burden and unnecessary risk on those who are weak? Does this not become fertile breeding ground for false doctrine and teaching for commandments of men?
Those of you who would feel compelled to pull up your stakes and find a friendlier camp, what about your obligation to the weaker members in the body? Did God not place you there as much as the leadership? Is it not your church too? (your place of assembly) Will your swift exodus have a positive, or a negative effect on those brothers and sisters you leave behind?
If you have the financial means to move each time there is a bit of disagreement - kewl, but what about the many that cannot and will not?
I do not advocate sowing disunity and this is a difficult thing to be sure, but when a church allows at least some room for lateral movement on secondary issues they are much better for it.
__________________ "It is inhumane, in my opinion, to force people who have a genuine medical need for coffee to wait in line behind people who apparently view it as some kind of recreational activity." Dave Barry 2005
I am a firm believer in the Old Paths
Articles on such subjects as "The New Birth," will be accepted, whether they teach that the new birth takes place before baptism in water and Spirit, or that the new birth consists of baptism of water and Spirit. - THE PENTECOSTAL HERALD Dec. 1945
"It is doubtful if any Trinitarian Pentecostals have ever professed to believe in three gods, and Oneness Pentecostals should not claim that they do." - Daniel Segraves
eat red meat, but be very careful when and with who
Serious issues!!!!
Of course the answer could be taken two ways...
1. Avoiding offending a weaker brother
2. Avoid getting caught. Appearing to be something you are not. Being Hypocritical.
__________________ "It is inhumane, in my opinion, to force people who have a genuine medical need for coffee to wait in line behind people who apparently view it as some kind of recreational activity." Dave Barry 2005
I am a firm believer in the Old Paths
Articles on such subjects as "The New Birth," will be accepted, whether they teach that the new birth takes place before baptism in water and Spirit, or that the new birth consists of baptism of water and Spirit. - THE PENTECOSTAL HERALD Dec. 1945
"It is doubtful if any Trinitarian Pentecostals have ever professed to believe in three gods, and Oneness Pentecostals should not claim that they do." - Daniel Segraves
eat red meat, but be very careful when and with who
Serious issues!!!!
My... what quick judgments you have....
I wish that it had been worded a little differently to fit my response but there is no issue in someone doing what he can to live peaceably and without offense with his brother.
If I go out to eat with someone who refrains from meat I don' take them to a BBQ joint.
I would point in the scripture where Paul indicates such an action is a sign of the end times and liken the request to an Anti-Christ spirit!
Yes I believe that was in the letter to Timothy.
__________________
Happy moments, PRAISE GOD.
Difficult moments, SEEK GOD.
Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD.
Painful moments, TRUST GOD.
Every moment, THANK GOD.
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