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Post by robinva on Mar 26, 2005 14:50:31 GMT -5
"But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner: with such an one no not to eat."
As you may be aware of from some of my post concerning our church, there is much disharmony. I know of two families leaving the church using this verse as a reference. Let me say this, that I am not always greived when members depart from the congregation. I realize there are times when agreement on non-doctrine issues cannot be reached. I am, however, concerned that what they will be using as a biblical explanation for their departure, may cause even more people to leave the congregation. Especially in light of the fact they are highly respected in the church. I feel like I need to write a history, before I even ask a question. So here it is: During a pulpit committee meeting, a few members of the committee voiced dissatisfaction with our last pastor's handling of the church. They felt like he dealt in a heavy handed way and was unapproachable. Unfortunately the pastor and others have heard these statements second hand and feel that those people owe an apology. So what does the word "railer" mean. Does making these statements make a person a railer? Is this sufficient reason to leave a church fellowship?
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Post by robinva on Mar 28, 2005 6:42:39 GMT -5
Thank you, pastordan, for a biblical and objective reply. My husband is a deacon serving on the pastoral search committee. We have had two resignations from the committee and our youth pastor will be turning in his resignation next Sunday. The two resignees plan to meet with our former pastor seeking guidance in starting a new church work elsewehere in the county. My dh is so torn between staying at our church or joining in on the new work. It has been very difficult to set aside emotion and discern God's will in this matter. We are in constantly in prayer. Thank you for your encouragement.
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