A Message to My Blog Readers: A Call for Unity, Love, and Discernment

Dear Beloved Readers,

For nearly 23 years, I have poured my heart into this blog, sharing reflections, teachings, and insights from the Word of God. My primary purpose has always been to see the Church united in Christ, free from division, selfish ambition, and false teachings. As the Apostle Paul urged the Corinthians, "I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought" (1 Corinthians 1:10). This remains my deepest prayer and mission.

The Church is called to be a light in the darkness, a place of love, truth, and unity. Yet, I am deeply grieved to see how some within the body of Christ have strayed from this calling. Selfishness, pride, and extremist behavior have crept in, causing harm to the witness of the Gospel. Jesus warned us, "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves" (Matthew 7:15). Let us be vigilant and reject teachings and behaviors that do not reflect the heart of Christ.

It breaks my heart to see some within the Church becoming so extreme in their beliefs and actions that they resemble terrorists rather than followers of Christ. Extremism, whether in doctrine or behavior, is a betrayal of the Gospel. Jesus taught us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). He called us to be peacemakers, not instigators of division or violence. "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matthew 5:9). Let us never forget that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12).

While Calvinism has contributed valuable insights into God’s sovereignty and grace, it also has weaknesses that can lead to imbalance or harm if not approached with wisdom and humility. Here are a few areas of concern:

1. Overemphasis on Predestination: Calvinism’s strong focus on predestination can sometimes lead to a fatalistic view of life, where human responsibility is downplayed. Scripture teaches both God’s sovereignty and human responsibility, as seen in Philippians 2:12-13: "Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose."
2. Limited Atonement: The belief that Christ’s atonement is only for the elect can create an exclusive mindset, contrary to the universal offer of the Gospel. John 3:16 declares, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." The Gospel is for all, and we must proclaim it as such.
3. Lack of Emphasis on God’s Love for All: Calvinism’s focus on God’s sovereignty can sometimes overshadow His boundless love for all humanity. Scripture reminds us, "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9).
4. Potential for Spiritual Pride: The doctrine of unconditional election can inadvertently foster pride in those who see themselves as the "elect," leading to a lack of compassion for others. We are reminded in Romans 12:3, "Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you."

My dear readers, let us not allow doctrinal differences or extremist behaviors to divide us. Instead, let us focus on what unites us: our faith in Jesus Christ and our call to love one another. "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins" (1 Peter 4:8). Let us reject false teachings and extremist attitudes that promote division and harm, and instead embrace the truth that sets us free (John 8:32).

I urge you to approach all teachings, including Calvinism, with discernment and humility. Let us hold fast to the core truths of the Gospel while extending grace to those with whom we may disagree. As Paul wrote, "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3).

A Final Plea

I am deeply saddened by the state of some the Bible-Prebyterian Church today. Extremism, division, and a lack of love have no place in the body of Christ. Let us remember that we are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-20), not agents of conflict. Let us strive to build a Church that reflects the heart of Jesus—a Church filled with brotherly love, forgiveness, and a passion for the lost.

Thank you for walking with me on this journey over the past 23 years. My prayer is that this blog continues to inspire you to pursue unity, love, and truth in Christ. Let us be a people who shine the light of Christ in a dark world, bringing hope, healing, and reconciliation.

A Fellow Servant of the Gospel

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 15:5-6).