SEPARATION
[Submission by Pastor Laurie Nankivell] – Quote: “Perhaps the specific title, ‘SEPARATION’, could be included. Many of our Bible class and Youngies don’t understand how and why to separate themselves and from whom.”
Main Scriptures to go here
Often people say that by their communication with them, they might bring them back to the Lord (see the bold part below)
Hebrews 6:4-8
4 – For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,
5 – And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
6 – If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
7 – For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:
8 – But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.
A bigger part of the separation problem is that a lot of people that “fall away” go to other churches. 2000 years ago that wasn’t really the issue, as “falling away” was leaving the one and only church!
I guess some would use the above scriptures to justify a hard line approach in regards to salvation and restoring to the church … however;
- The prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32)
- God is a righteous judge (wimbr?)
2 Corinthians 2:5-8
5 – But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all.
6- Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many.
7 – So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.
8 – Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him.
Galatians 6:1
1 – Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.