I have been there, my friend. Trained in IMPECCABLE Evangelical institutions (heard of Moody Bible Institute?). Raised in a separatist Baptist denomination. Terminal degree in Theology. Yes, I know EXACTLY how people in this tradition think: "Everyone who disagrees with us is of the devil!"
Oh yes, I have also had interactions with that so-called bastion of Biblical truth: Bob Jones University! They are a sham of biblical Christianity.
It took me many years to realize that there were Christians outside of my own very narrow perspective. It took me many years to confess my arrogance towards other Christian brethren in different historic/cultural circumstances, but who confessed the same essential Faith proclaimed throughout the centuries.
RE: So what’s your point? That everyone who might differ with your own particular interpretation of Biblical theology is wrong?
My point is every organization has the right to determine their set of beliefs and vigorously defend them. If they believe another organization is in error they have every right to explain why in their show or publications as that organization has every right to defend theirs.
In this, The Christian Research Institute has been historically very fair. For instance, they have invited Catholics to their show to debate their beliefs.
If you disagree with their point of view, that is your personal prerogative, and you don’t have to patronize or support their organization if you don’t want to.
However, the directors and supporters of the organization has every right to determine who will be the spokesman for their beliefs.
*THAT* is my point.
RE: Yes, I know EXACTLY how people in this tradition think: “Everyone who disagrees with us is of the devil!”
I think you’re exaggerating. I know several Moody Bible Institute graduates and I have not seen one who would say : “Everyone who disagrees with us is of the devil!”
It depends on the NATURE of the Disagreement. If you do not believe that Jesus Christ is the second person of the Trinity, then yes, the doctrine is heretical, but that would not be unique to Moody Graduates. Even Catholic and Eastern Orthodox doctrine would agree.
There is a difference between simply believing that you are in error in certain areas of scripture and saying that you are of the devil.
Please check your private messages. Thanks.