Biblical Separation
Author: B. W. Roeser
Sometimes it can really be tough to be a Grace Believer. In a world where it seems that everybody is a "Christian" (which, by-
Today’s religious system (and the one the Lord Jesus Christ took on 2,000 years ago) more resembles the system in Babylon. (See Daniel 3).
Some points about taking a stand for the truth of Paul's Gospel:
It's Specific
1 Cor 15:1-
However -
Yup. It was lonely for Paul, too. 2 Tim 4:7-
It requires separation
Rom 16:17-
Sometimes it requires taking a dangerous risk
Staying away from the religious system to follow Paul requires the kind of individual determination that the three Jews (Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego) demonstrated when Nebuchadnezzar set up a religious worship system and they refused to participate in it. Dan 3 Note that they did not even hesitate to tell the king exactly why (Dan 3:16).
What are we to do about the religious system? (Come out) 2 Cor 6:14-
Note here that Paul refers to unbelievers and idolaters. Most "Christians" do not consider themselves as such. However note that a believer here is someone who trusts in Paul's gospel. (Follow me, I am pattern, me first, etc) [1 Cor 4:16, 1 Cor 11:1-
What are we supposed to be doing "outside the camp" then? (Individual evangelism -
It lacks religious confusion
I.E. There is a consistency of experience and a clear direction based on a finished and complete document and doctrine. Religion always keeps you guessing: you're never 100% sure where the truth is. God's “will” is very elusive and a real moving target in religion. You’re always being told to do something that will “make God happy”. If you truly understand Paul’s Gospel you’ll notice that your salvation requires none of this. You can rest knowing that He really did do it all. Rom 4:5 Any activities you do in the flesh, however “good” they may look are going to get you nowhere. (Except tired!) Rom 8:5-
One particular situation where Paul called for level-
Peter was very clear that experience comes in second to the Word of God: 2 Pet 1:15-