Clement addresses issues of schism and discord within the Corinthian church. He wrote this letter in AD96.
Schism in Corinth
46.1 Therefore it is also necessary for us to cling to such examples, brothers. 2 For it is written, “Cling to the holy ones, because those who cling to them will be made holy.” 3 And again, in another place it says, “With the innocent one you will be innocent and with the elect you will be elect and with the perverse you will deal perversely.” 4 Therefore let us cling to the innocent and the righteous, as these are the elect of God. 5 Why is there strife and anger and dissension and division and war among you? 6 Or do we not have one God and one Christ, and one Spirit of grace which is poured out upon us, and one calling in Christ? 7 Why do we tear and rip apart the members of Christ, and rebel against our own body and get worked up to such a frenzy that we forget that we are members of one another? Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, 8 for it says, “Woe to that person, it would be better for him if ⌊he had not been born⌋ than to cause one of my elect to sin. It would have been better for him to be tied to a millstone and to sink into the sea than to turn away one of my elect.” 9 Your schism has turned many away, has plunged many into discouragement, many into doubt; all of us into grief, yet your rebellion is continuous!
What may Bible Presbyterian Church members take away from this Clement's letter?
1. Unity in the Faith: Clement stresses the importance of unity among believers, pointing out that there is "one God and one Christ" and that Christians share "one Spirit of grace." The disunity and division within the Corinthian church are presented as contradictory to the fundamental unity of the Christian faith.
2. Consequences of Division: The letter criticizes the schism and factionalism within the church, highlighting its detrimental effects. Clement argues that the divisions are causing widespread spiritual harm, leading to discouragement and doubt among the members, which in turn grieves the community as a whole.
3. Moral Warning: Clement uses a strong moral warning attributed to Jesus to illustrate the severity of causing others to sin. The metaphor of being tied to a millstone and cast into the sea is a dramatic way to communicate the seriousness of leading others astray and the severe consequences of causing division within the Church.
4. Call to Reconciliation: Implicit in Clement's message is a call for reconciliation and healing within the church. By pointing out the negative impact of the schism and the scriptural mandates for unity, Clement is urging the Corinthians to overcome their divisions and restore harmony.
By ways of application to Bible Presbyterian Churches.
I. Focus on what unites rather than what divides. Remind the congregation of core beliefs, such as the divinity of Christ, salvation through Him, and the authority of Scripture. Use these central beliefs as a foundation for reconciliation and unity.
II. Encourage open and respectful dialogue about differences in Bible versions and practices. Organize discussions or study groups where members can express their views, listen to others, and seek common ground. Ensure that conversations are conducted with love and respect, avoiding personal attacks or harsh judgments.
III. Acknowledge the impact of divisions on the church’s overall health. Address any resulting feelings of discouragement or isolation and offer support to those affected. Provide pastoral care and counseling to help members work through their issues and heal from the hurt caused by the divisions.
IV. Foster an environment of reconciliation by encouraging forgiveness and understanding. Promote initiatives that bring members together, such as joint worship services, prayer meetings, or fellowship events, where differences can be set aside in favor of shared worship and community.
V. Provide educational resources on different Bible versions and practices like speaking in tongues. Clarify the reasons behind various practices and versions in a way that respects diverse perspectives. Ensure that teaching emphasizes how different practices can coexist within the bounds of Christian unity.
VI. Church leaders should model humility and love in their interactions. Demonstrate a willingness to understand and respect differing views and practices. Encourage members to act out of love and to prioritize the well-being of the community over personal preferences or disagreements.
VII. Redirect attention to the common mission and goals of the church. Emphasize collective goals such as outreach, service, and community support. By focusing on shared objectives, members may find common ground that transcends their differences.
By applying these principles, Bible Presbyterian Churches can work towards healing divisions over Bible versions, Verbal Plenary Preservation, and practices like speaking in tongues, fostering a more unified, loving, and respectful community.
May God bless you.
Sincerely,
Rev. So and So
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