It’s time we get off this denomination meme and see what scripture says. I couldn’t care less which “religion” someone claims to be or what supposed “church group” they belong to. Either they follow what scripture says and put their full faith in Christ alone or they don’t.
The body of Christ is not a denomination, church, or organization. It consists of all those who trust in Jesus alone for their salvation relying on nothing else. They may meet to worship and study in large groups or small, in homes or larger accommodations.
Asking what “denomination” or organization someone belongs to is typically an indication that the person asking the question does not understand what the Greek word ekklesia means nor do they understand what the body of Christ really is.
You're reading the accusations of heresy and apostasy based on denominational doctrine right here on this thread. That is exactly what I'm rebutting.
Either they follow what scripture says and put their full faith in Christ alone or they don’t.
Does this Rood fellow not have faith in Christ alone? A cursory glean of Rood's site would indicate he does, and that he puts more emphasis on following some aspects of OT scripture than upon mainstream traditions.
I think that is what rubs some brethren raw in terms of adherence. They are offended if a Christian keeps Sabbaths and holy days and traditions of the Hebrews, they accuse them of heresy and violating Christ's grace if they do so.
From what I can glean, these brethren desire to be more devout to their understanding of scripture and the faith their Savior came from than simply relying on mainstream tradition. I guess this is a crime now to some. Heresy. Apostasy. Denial of Christ simply due their biblical understanding or worship practices.
Rood may be a Pharisee if he requires Hebrew traditions such as language and attire be adhered to in their worship. Likewise, are those Pharisees that denounce those that follow such traditions.
That seems to be the crux of the issue. It's not a matter of whether or not Rood openly denounces the Divinity of Christ - it's the accusation that because he keeps practices which are not 'mainstream' - he is a heretic and false prophet.
The body of Christ is not a denomination, church, or organization. It consists of all those who trust in Jesus alone for their salvation relying on nothing else. They may meet to worship and study in large groups or small, in homes or larger accommodations.
BINGO. So why can't this Rood and his congregation be considered part of the Body of Christ? He comes out with an interesting supposition about what he warns could be The Mark of the Beast - and he's immediately denounced as a false prophet and heretic. What about the substance of what he is suggesting based on current events we see taking shape?
No. Can't talk about that. We have to yield to those who are screaming that no one should pay any attention to what Rood says on this matter, even if it would sharpen iron.
My point is again, that Christians in America are quick to tear one another apart over matters of doctrine and denomination, but sit silent or are accommodating of real evil. Be it institutionalized sin, or even some Christians embracing Islam as a 'path to salvation' and acceptance that 'we worship the same God'.
Asking what “denomination” or organization someone belongs to is typically an indication that the person asking the question does not understand what the Greek word ekklesia means nor do they understand what the body of Christ really is.
I understand perfectly well what ekklesia means. I was asking you whom you consider Revelation 3:9 applies to since you posted the reference. Does it apply to Rood alone? Do you think it applies to Messianics? Jewish converts? Those who keep Sabbaths or holy days?
How about upon Those who are dunked? Those who are sprinkled? Those who do weekly communion? Those who do it monthly or annually? Those who refer to Jesus in Hebrew? Those who refer to Jesus in Latin?
Since Jesus Himself says He will make them of the church of Satan, and worship at the feet of the Ekklesia so that they will know that Jesus loved them - I'm curious where the instruction is there in Jesus' Words that we of ourselves are to identify and point out who is of that synagogue?