As I think about how I should treat other brothers and sisters in Christ, and as I think about things I have thought and said about brothers and sisters who do not believe exactly like me, I am also convicted. God is changing me (and others) in this aspect.

-Alan

Thanks for the response. I had the same basic feeling on the issue, that it seems as though false teachers, as described in Scripture, have twisted motives. Motives can just be so difficult, if not impossible, to determine. Nonetheless, I agree with you on this–and somehow I’ve never seen it or thought about it before.

I grew up conservative, and in college I worked in a very mainstream (moderate) church. Since I left, I’ve been negative about that particular denomination as a whole. Needless to say, I have been convicted by this post. Quite possibly one of the best blog posts I’ve ever read.

Alan

The Bible paints a pretty harsh picture about false teachers. What are we to do with them? Is there a line between “Samaritans” and “false teachers?” I think the question is more indepth than that (in my head, at least), but I’m sure you understand what I’m asking. I’m certainly not arguing with you–in fact, the more I think about it, the more I’m in agreement with you. Just wanted to know your thoughts.

Thanks
Alan Reynolds

I’m glad that you cleared things up for those who do not know you. I was thinking about some of our inside jokes a few days ago when we were “rebuking” Theron. Someone stumbling on his site would probably wonder what was going on.

Anyway, yes, we should be concerned when we question someone’s beliefs, but they are living more like Christ than we are.

-Alan

I do not want anyone to ever get the impression that I’m a Mormon apologist. I see several things in the Mormon church that don’t sit well with me.

Ironically, however, the things my Mormon friends and I have disagreed the most on are the same things that my institutional church friends and I disagree on, not doctrine! Strange, huh?

Anyway, your point earlier was right along with my thinking. I think we need to consider why those who are considered by most to be outside the bounds of “true Christianity” are practicing the “true religion” that the NT talks about.

You might not have used the M-word, but you thought it!

Aussie John,

You are always very encouraging. Your statement sounds like Jesus’: “They will see your good deeds and glorify your father in heaven.”

-Alan

Now I know why I really appreciate your blog!

Christians being SEEN to be whom they SAY they are.

For some reason, I knew you would drop the M-word. Honestly, we should ask ourselves why certain “cults” are known for living like Christ more than certain “orthodox” groups.

Eric,

I appreciate this example from South Asia. Perhaps “car[ing] about or understand[ing] some of the more minute theological details we sometimes discuss” is more of a hindrance, obstacle, or distraction than it is helpful. I’m trying to learn to “stimulate one another to love and good deeds” more than I discuss those minute details… I’m still learning though.

Guy,

Thank you for the encouraging words! I agree that Jesus commands us to “Go and do likewise”.

Strider,

I don’t think I said it better. I love your narrative presentations.

Bryan,

I agree that doctrine includes both right thinking and right actions. I used “doctrine” in the sense that I usually hear it used (i.e., doctrine = beliefs). I do not think Scripture makes this same distinction.

Mary,

Great prayer! “Father, give me a pure and loving heart”. I also appreciate the Scripture that you added to this discussion.

-Alan

Lk6:44 Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. :45 The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart.
Heb4:12 For the Word of God is living and active. ..It judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.