Actually, it was a fair question. Since just before going on our ministry trip to Nicaragua, our men's study began to step into a topic that is extremely sensitive. We've begun to delve into our spiritual heritage, and explore our roots. While some people may enjoy pointing out their differences, and airing out their laundry for everyone to see, we don't, or at least in a public forum like this blog. I believe it is important to know why you believe what you believe, and the history of the people who shaped your belief system. Our fellowship came from strong Pentecostal roots, yet it doesn't define us. A matter of fact, I am weary of the label of Pentecostal. I believe it maligns the Jewish feast upon which the experience occurred, and it buries the importance of what was poured out upon that day. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is the bone of contention that the rabid dogs of dogma, and doctrinal correctness on both sides of the bone, love to get in fights about. This forum is not the place for me to present intimate details of how I feel, or what I believe. I don't want to give those bitter souls who long for argument an opportunity to do so. I also don't want to malign those men, and women of God who've slipped, or fallen along the way during the formation of the current outpouring. This is family talk, about family, with family, and it is a sin when we launch our scripture bombs, dogma grenades, and holy howitzers at one another in public. In-house debate, spiritual clarification, and doctrinal foundation are crucial for a fellowship to mature, we just don't need to put it out for everyone to see. My sincere desire is for myself, as well as the men who trust me to bring them solid teaching, is for the Holy Spirit to teach. I can't do that in a public environment.
Why?
Because there is always going to be someone who is as I once was, full of pride, and the need to be right. We have only one constraint place upon us by scripture, to teach Jesus, and Him crucified. Everything else is 'family.' The problem is; when we air our disagreements out in the public, we destroy the unity we should be building. The cause of Christ is lost upon disappointed ears.
In our men's group, we're going to be in 'comparison' mode for a few more lessons. Some things are best left unsaid in public. Once we are finished talking among ourselves, I'll start posting our lessons once more. I apologize for not saying something sooner.
May the grace and peace of God be with you.
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