Joyfully re-energized by the Word!

We discussed a rather general set of doctrinal statements of the EFCA this morning. As stated in the distinctives, the EF churches do not seek to draw battle lines over minor points and divide the fellowship accordingly. Since the denomination is not a tight hierarchy, the particulars are ultimately up to the local churches to decide, which I think is both advantageous and disadvantageous. Anyway, the end of the story is that I was relieved to find Pastor Parker's theological viewpoints on the same page as mine (mainly those concerning salvation and ordinances).

This next segment is mainly for my own reflection -- and you don't have to read this -- but here are some changes that have occurred in my viewpoints concerning various issues over this past year (in no particular order):

1. True relationships (friends or otherwise) must be God-centered, and while there is a critical need to faithfully steward the relationships that God has led me unto, there is no need to willfully seek them out in my fleshly desires.
2. God's sovereign grace - Only the Holy Spirit can change a human heart (while it is still in its sinful and rebellious state) and draw us into God's presence. The doctrine concerning God's omniscience does not contradict this view.
3. What Christ-centered evangelism entails - while programs and resources are helpful, it is ultimately the God's Word itself that speaks and changes hearts, neither the eloquence of a man's speech nor the intelligence of his logic!

You know, many a time I secretly held contempt for those being dogmatic about their errant traditions. But I did not realize that some of my own was in error until I examined the Word. Of course, none of us will have perfect theology until we are in Heaven, but I just wanted to point out how amazing God is, and that He continues to melt this heart of stone, even today, through the sole power of His Word. I thank Him for all the love and wisdom that were imparted on His people to change me. I just pray that I only live in accordance to His will evermore.

"By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness:
He who was revealed in the flesh,
Was vindicated in the Spirit,
Seen by angels,
Proclaimed among the nations,
Believed on in the world,
Taken up in glory."

- 1 Timothy 3:16