An Overview
by Larry Rouse

Every generation faces the challenge to understand and apply the Bible for themselves. No one should blindly accept what previous generations have taught just because of past practices. Those who know the Lord will learn to search "the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so" (Acts 17:11). Those who refuse to examine past practices by an open Bible are indeed caught up in a loyalty to a human tradition above God (Mt 15:8-9). It is my goal for this website to encourage such a discussion.

Also with every generation, a movement arises that carries the banner of opposing human traditions and having the desire to see "radical" changes within the church. There is a real danger for those who seek reform to actually form a human movement with human loyalties that are forming new human traditions to contrast with the practices they oppose. When this happens you will often find a group of doctrinal positions taken that will define the new movement. There then will be an effort made to line people up through name-calling, peer-pressure and other carnal weapons. When this occurs, pride, bitterness and a desire for control of others motivate these "reformers." Division occurs in these settings and another sect is born. Please carefully look into your heart and of those who are seeking reform to be sure that you have a heart of love and an open Bible rather than the "win at all costs" attitude of one who will slander and destroy others just to add another slave to a new human movement (Gal 4:17-20; 2 Pt 2:19).

Over the next few months I will be accumulating material under different categories surrounding these questions. I also plan to publish exchanges that will focus on the differences brethren have. If you have material you would like to share or wish to give feedback or begin a discussion, please contact me.

May the Lord Bless You in Your Studies,

Larry Rouse

LarryRouse@cvillechurch.com