Posted on 11/15/2004 2:28:43 PM PST by telder1
We Orthodox Presbyterians are very careful about our doctrine, and are rightfully wary of those who pit love against doctrine. Indeed, the liberals in the old Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A. rallied under the banner of "love" so they could uncharitably persecute the orthodox in their midst. Paul himself insisted on correcting the doctrinal error of the "strong" Corinthians who thought that participating in pagan feasts was proof of their great knowledge. Still, we err whenever we think that right doctrine is sufficient in itself. Our doctrine, however right it may be, is worse than useless if it is not clothed in love. Love, not doctrine, is the chief Christian virtue, and love is always an identifying characteristic of the true church. When we begin with love for our brethren, our knowledge will not puff up, but will edify. Love enables us to use our right doctrine for the good of our brethren, in imitation of our Lord Jesus Christ, the incarnation of truth, who first loved us, and who will always love us.
Thank you for this good post. It is much needed, here on FR. I think that the last paragraph (of the article) needs to be taken to heart:
If there is division between you and your Christian brethren, within your congregation or outside of it, what has caused it? Is it really your right doctrine, or is it your failure to pursue and promote right doctrine with the genuine Christian charity that imitates the love of Jesus?
"Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love" (1 Cor. 13:12-13). DG
Tremendously good, and convicting article. Very grateful to you for posting it...
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