[quote=Charity][quote=dedication]
Maritime allows discussion on both sides of this issue, even though I don't believe that WO is biblical.
As far as the choice of featured members goes, that is randomly chosen by the forum software and has nothing to do with what is being posted.
This is an important point to make; and one that I think the Church also does, or at least tries to do for the most part. The "divide and conquer" strategy works well when we take sides and pit ourselves against one another. I think its important to just give our witness for Christ, and to politely try explaining our point of view, hopefully from scripture, first, and then from other writings that are pertinent and upheld by scripture.
Steve W really doesnt need to "predict" division as scripture is clear that there has always and will always be divisions:
And I will put a division between my people and thy people: to morrow shall this sign be. (Exodus 8:23)
Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: (Luke 12:51)
We look upon the Jews as inexcusable because they rejected and crucified Christ. But today the messages that the Lord sends are often received in a manner similar to the way in which the Jews received Christ's message. If the instruction of the Lord does not harmonize with the opinions of men, anger takes control of reason, and men play into the enemy's hands by opposing the message that God sends. Satan uses them as sharp instruments to oppose the progress of truth (MS 31, 1889). {5BC 1089.5}
If we would study a little closer; we could see how division and heresy play a role in strengthening the church and her work, as people who are seeking to know the truth will do the searching needed.
"Ye shall know the truth; and the truth will set you free. Jesus uses to His advantage all that we might try to do in opposing His message."All things work TOGETHER for good to them that love Jesus!" (Rom 8:28)
