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To: xzins
I don’t think the point at which they come forward is the point at which any dishonesty happens.

It doesn't seem as if "coming forward" is a commitment, but rather only a step toward a confession of faith, baptism, or membership in a church. From that point, it's up to the leadership of the congregation to exercise good will and good judgment.

I think that's what you were saying ...

43 posted on 02/21/2014 7:53:51 AM PST by Tax-chick (The future is not going to take us seriously.)
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To: Tax-chick; Gamecock; tired&retired; CityCenter
good will and judgment

Yes. The counselor/pastor who receives any person must be sensitive to the words of the person who has come forward. If it's the jailer saying "What must I do to be saved?", then that's one thing. If it's "I want to know more.", then that's another. If it's, "I don't know why I'm here.", then we have a third.

Be honest and honorable. Those should be dealt with differently.

My favorite setting was the "Operation Appreciation" program for Ft Knox basic training soldiers who were invited to Louisville Kentucky. They had an inquirers room separate from the sanctuary. The counselors had time to talk to each of those who had come forward. Sometimes it was about salvation, but a lot of the time it was about lonliness, girlfriends, drill sergeants, or other needs that we'd pray for.

It would have been a lie to pretend all were there for "salvation".

44 posted on 02/21/2014 8:15:43 AM PST by xzins ( Retired Army Chaplain and Proud of It! Those who truly support our troops pray for victory!)
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