>Brilliant scholars have studied the available evidence for years, and still dispute about some aspects of early Christian belief and practice, and yet every ardent sectarian with a Bible thinks that he or she is a Divinely-annointed authority on the topic.Brilliant scholars of what spirit? It is Idolatry to bow to Nicolaitan overlords, false shepherds who lord it over the flock.
2Co 11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
Re 2:6 But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans*, which I also hate.
Re 2:15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans*, which thing I hate.
What is a Nicolaitan?
Jesus said, Come unto *ME* and seek His face, not church TRADITIONS.
Mt 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
So you assume that you are the first to recieve whatever knowledge it is you proffes? That all who came before you were hopelessly wrong, and did not possess God's Spirit? Has God's word come only to you? Do you think that you and your few kindred represent the only true remnant that has ever been? Do you think the Lord instituted the Church vainly, or ordained ecclesiastical authority as a jest? Perhaps I am wrong, but you come terribly close to scorning the Church in favor of your own personal view of things.