Re: Challenging Church Compassion – 20: Kicked Out for Animal Beliefs
Hello Mike:
The church could indeed tell me that my “teachings/beliefs were not
welcome.” That is why I keep quiet; I don’t want to step anywhere near the
point at which somebody might make that declaration.
Being a fundamental/evangelical church, any mention of being “inclusive” of
other beliefs or “open” to new understandings of Christ’s teachings
instantly sends their theological blood pressure (and their cardiovascular
blood pressure) through the high ceiling of the sanctuary. Any such mention
conjures fears of theological “compromise,” in which “liberal” or
“humanistic” beliefs enter the church and attack the true teachings of
scripture.
If they permit somebody to say that animals are more than inanimate objects
created for us to kill, then what other beliefs could be challenged next?
The sufficiency of Christ for salvation, perhaps?
Somehow, fundamental/evangelical congregations must learn to “stand firm” on
matters of essential belief, while permitting alternative views on issues
not essential to salvation or obedience.
Best regards
Phil