What's the difference?

[n david]

Originally Posted by Aquila

That's a fair question.

I don't want to wax to radical, nor do I want to support that pastors can just legislate Heaven or Hell edicts from the pulpit.

Technically, a pastor can do anything they wish to do no matter who agrees or not. Those who wish to abide by any pastor's position, whatever it may be, will stay and serve in that church. Let me say that I personally do not support every position or approach a pastor might take.

Let's look at this as a gem with multiple facets. Some I don't agree with, some I do, and others I might tolerate if I feel it is approached ethically.

1.) Personally, I'm absolutely against pastors creating extra-biblical standards and proclaiming that it is a matter of Heaven or Hell. I see that as going way beyond the bounds of Scripture. This creates a "mini-pope" that has the power and authority to absolutely control a saint's life down to the very color of panty hose or sleeve length. I find this to be excessive and unbiblical control.

2.) I don't support pastors who would enforce a "platform standard", refusing anyone with a beard or who violates his opinion from serving on the platform. Why? Because it creates two classes of saints, when we are to be of equal value and service in the Kingdom. It unnecessarily divides the body without any biblical necessity to do so. If a man is born again and sanctified in the pew with a beard, then he's clearly saved and sanctified enough to serve on the platform with a beard.

3.) I have no issue with a pastor voicing his personal opinions or preferences, while allowing the saints to freely choose to honor those opinions or preferences or not. This pastor that I mentioned has stated that his preference is a ministry that is clean shaven. However, he doesn't prohibit men with beards from ever being on the platform. Nor does he condemn to Hell anyone who has a different preference. Out of love, the vast majority embrace his vision. But he will not deny the platform or condemn to Hell anyone who disagrees. This, I can support.

I guess when it comes to pastoral preferences, my support is given or denied based on how the pastor approaches it. Does he approach it in a forceful authoritarian manner, or as a gentle request without creating division or any repercussion if another is of a different opinion.

So, it's a fine line. The attitude and spirit of the pastor goes a long way with me.

You said he has allowed his brother and guest speakers with beards. You also said "he requests that the regular team on the platform be clean shaven" and "he requests that those who serve on the platform be clean shaven."

What would happen if one of the regular congregant men who isn't related and isn't a guest had a beard and wanted to serve on the platform? Because you said this Pastor has a vision for "his" ministry and that includes men being clean shaven.

I could see how that may not apply to siblings or guests occasionally serving on the platform. I just don't believe, given what you have claimed, this Pastor would allow his vision of clean shaven men be marred by beards every service.