Prevail Magazine often has some interesting articles. I think this week, with some focusing upon the state of the Church, the article “Jesus Christ is Building an Organization” is of particular interest.
Also, perhaps you have heard by now of Dennis Luker’s video sermon, “God’s Sovereignty in the Church and Our Personal Lives”. It is scheduled to be played in all the congregations, but the actual timing is up to the local pastor. I wanted to watch it beforehand, but distractions and interruptions prevented me from doing so until yesterday.
I don’t want to spoil it for those who haven’t watched it yet, so I will restrict my comments on one aspect of the sermon. Luker goes through the messages to the seven churches in Rev 2 – 3, but he also talks about “eras”. He also states how the different messages can be applied personally and corporately through the ages.
This just points out the main aspect of the “church era” teaching that annoys me. It is full of inconsistencies. Either it is an era, or it is not. If so, then if one church is Laodicean now, then they all are. Furthermore, why bother reading all seven messages, since they apply to a specific point in time?
I know, it is a minor point. Furthermore, UCG is at least the most sane in their application of this particular doctrine, but it is still inconsistent. Unfortunately, far too many COGs seem to want to use this doctrine and the “one man rule” doctrine as clubs to beat over the heads of other groups.
What I find most fascinating about the church era doctrine is that Jesus says over and over, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches”. He says, “Listen.” Unfortunately, too many individuals in too many groups are busy talking and not listening.
OK, I’ll step off my soapbox now. The rest of the sermon was quite good, and Dennis Luker seems like a very down to earth gentleman. I hope he can make a positive difference after the turmoil of the past few years.