Write The Author
By Neal Griffin
In 1'st John 4 the writer explains how to identify a false teacher. Simply put, in vs 2, if one confesses that Jesus has come in the flesh he is not a false teacher. Taking into consideration the "wolves" and agnostics John was exposing it is apparent that he was dealing with a brotherhood issue, and it is obvious that those who pass the test are believers and should be accepted as such.
The question we must deal with is HOW are we to accept all believers?
In Romans 15:7 we read that we should accept one another, as Christ accepted us, to the glory of God. For additional meaning consider that other versions use, "welcome" and/or "receive", in stead of "accept". In either case the meaning is the same. We are not to reject one another for that would be to the shame of God.
Just how did Jesus accept us? Were we without error when He accepted us? Were we sinless?
What then should our attitudes be toward those who are at different levels of understanding and/or different levels of Spiritual maturity? What should our attitudes be toward a believer who does not agree with us on a peripheral issue? By "peripheral" I mean having nothing at all to do with salvation by grace through faith. There is only one thing we are under obligation to understand alike and that is the Gospel. All other issues are peripheral.
The accusation, "false teacher", is loosely hurled by some at others who disagree with them over peripheral issues. This to the shame of God. Cecil Hook in his book, "Free In Christ", lists one hundred (100) such issues that Satan has conjured up to rend the precious body of Jesus, such issues as premillennialism, 70 A.D., one cup no classes, instrumental music, and church support of orphanages, to list a few. On many of these issues men dare to brand any and all who disagree with them as "false teachers" and deny them brotherhood acceptance, and in some cases, even deny that they are saved.
Such attitudes are in direct opposition to John’s cardinal test of brotherhood. We are not at liberty to impose other entry rules. We are under obligation to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Let us strive to do that by using only John’s cardinal test of brotherhood. Call it unity in diversity if you like! I prefer to call it unity in love. We are under obligation to love one another and not reject one another. A doubting world watches in amazement as believers try to devour one another over peripheral issues. The only way the world is to know that we are of Christ is that we love one another.
Please prayerfully consider these thoughts! I believe them to be true to the Word.
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