The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum HowWouldYouAnswerThis?

One can have very strong "convictions" but still be woefully wrong.

Again, I hold to a high view of the Church, which you claim to also hold but ironically we are at opposite ends on many different things, not excluding this particular issue in regard to the Church and even in regard to epistemology. The Church is not you, the Holy Spirit and your Bible, aka: "Solo Scriptura" (do I hear an echo? ). The true Church consists of ALL believers from all time. And, the Holy Spirit was and will continue to be resident in the minds and hearts of those who are brought into that great assembly of the saints.

Among those saints He, the Holy Spirit has gifted mightily men in different ages by whom the truth of God's Word has been defined, documented and defended. Being that there is but ONE TRUTH, those who would disagree with or even disregard the wisdom of those who have been used of God for the purpose of defending that truth have the onus thrust upon them to show where these men have gone astray. This task is a daunting one indeed and is one which necessitates sound exegesis of Scripture and not simply a rejection of a view out of hand because you have a "conviction" of some new "truth" or "insight" that contradicts the established tradition of the Church. By God's grace, men such as Martin Luther did exactly this in his day against the corrupt traditions and teachings of Rome. So, if you are wanting to stand against what you deem "man's tradition", even though that tradition is grounded solidly upon the Scripture which has stood the test of time and men, please do so but knowing that you stand against the teachings of some of the most brilliant and godly men to ever walk this earth.

Have fun!

In His grace,