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SemperReformanda said:
While this article by Fred is more generalized than BSF specifically, I thought it was a good one to post:

http://www.fredsbibletalk.com/fb018.html


Thanks for the link Marie. I read through the questions. I thought I would post my first impression answers to those questions here. Disclaimer: I've only been to this study twice.

(1) Does the ministry teach orthodox Christian doctrine?

I think I would say yes (see sub-questions). Hmm, actually it's difficult to say, because a lot of the core doctrines haven't been touched on yet (in a manner with enough precision that I could tell what meaning they are actually attaching to the words they are using).

They will put aside the final authority of scripture for the man-made teachings of the main group, or leaders of the group.
Seems like they uphold the final authority of scripture. But, they sure like to be inclusive while doing it, so it's hard to say. One may argue (very strongly) that once you reach a certain level of "inclusiveness", you aren't holding to the final authority of the Scripture even though you say you are.

They reject what the Bible reveals about the triune nature of God.
Definitely not.

They will alter what the Bible teaches regarding the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Don't think so.

They will change the nature of salvation from justification by faith through God’s grace alone, to one of man-centered works. These groups have devised many elaborate methods for people to either earn their salvation from God, or to complete it in one way or another. Whatever the case, legalistic works are added to salvation to be carried out by the convert. In their view of salvation, faith upon Christ alone is not enough.
I'm a little worried about this one. Mainly the "legalistic works are added to salvation to be carried out by the convert" part. They don't call it this, but they certainly seem to focus a lot on "doing things in the Spirit". Which isn't necessarily bad or wrong, but I am always wary of groups who use this kind of terminology alot.

(2) Does the ministry or it leader(s) claim to have special revelation apart from the Bible, teach unique doctrines, or claim any special, spiritual authority?
I would say no except for one exception. That exception is the method by which they study the Bible. I can't remember the exact steps but it's something like "read, review, ask questions, apply". According to the main guy, this method of studying the Bible was revealed to the founder Wetherall Johnson. Or maybe, instead of revealed, it might be more proper to say that this method was divinely confirmed to her to be the best way to study Scripture, since others may have used this "particular" method before.

(3) Does the ministry or group base their doctrines upon the sole teachings of one particular individual, or small group of individuals?
I don't think so.

(4) Does the ministry provide an articulate doctrinal statement?
I haven't seen one. If they do, it's not prominently displayed and would have to be asked for.

(5) Does the leader(s) of the religious group, or ministry, conduct himself with personal integrity?
Hard to know after two meetings, but I would assume yes.

(6) Does the leader, and the ministry he leads, have financial integrity?
Hard to know after two meetings, but I would assume yes.

(7) Does the main Bible teacher, or the ministry, promise quick and certain spiritual growth and blessing with the reading of his or her books, the attendance of seminars or the supporting of the ministry?
No, but there may be an implicit assumption that if you continue to attend this study, you will grow in Christ.

(8) Does the leadership, and/or members of the ministry, ridicule and condemn other Christians who may disagree with their theological opinions or the ministry’s doctrinal statement?
No, I don't think so.

(9) Does the Church or ministry have a disdain for a Bible college or seminary education?
No

(10) Does the ministry emphasize politics and Christian social activism over solid Biblical teaching?
No

11. Does the ministry advocate and promote speculative conspiracy theories?

No

Please take all my answers about this organization with a healthy dose of "he's only been twice".

John