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Continued
How to Study the Subject
Look at all sides of the issue. Don’t be afraid to consider an opposing viewpoint. You don’t have to accept it in order to study it! But, you may need to know what you’re up against. Usually, there are very good arguments on both sides of an issue, so it’s good to know what these are. Ignorance of the facts can place you in embarrassing circumstances.
You want to make an informed decision and not be “carried about by every wind of doctrine.” (Eph 4:14-15) This takes in-depth study of all sides of the issue. And let’s face it, some issues are horribly daunting. For example, there has never been a more complicated subject than the calendar issue. It could take you weeks, even months, to study all of the information that is available. Some of the information we’ve encountered on this subject would require a degree in Rocket Science or Hieroglyphics to decipher it! But, it’s essential not to come to a hasty conclusion without considering all of the facts. It takes research to make an informed decision.
Consider the Source
When reading through the information, keep in mind the kind of “spirit” it is written in. Is it written in a spirit of love (I Cor. 13:4-5) or is the tone haughty and belittling? If it is the latter, don’t bother to finish it. It’s obviously “of the flesh” and will be of no value to you. Are the scripture references accurate to most translations? If the Biblical scriptures are misquoted and twisted by the author, disregard the information. We’ve come across literature who’s author was so racist and bigoted that he actually added words such as “black-skinned” to Old Testament scripture regarding nations other than Israel in order to support his point of view (Rev. 22:18). Beware of this practice!
Have you considered other sources? Consult with other brothers and sisters in Christ who have been in the faith for many years. They are an excellent source of knowledge and experience. However, it would not be wise to consult with someone new in the faith (I Cor. 3:1-2). When you are ready to talk with the “elders” of the Church, keep in mind that you need to be able to discuss a subject without being defensive. Discuss the subject calmly, keeping the fruits of the Spirit in your mind (Gal. 5:22-26), especially longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, temperance (self-control). Only Satan will be served if you “cause a scene.” Read James 1:19-20. Keep in mind that some people have difficulty discussing controversial subjects without getting defensive. If you find yourself faced with this behavior, do your best to “follow peace with all men” (Heb. 12:14) and change the subject if things get too heated.
Use Your Spiritual “Tools” (I Cor. 2:14)
Some answers must be spiritually discerned, coming from God through the Holy Spirit that the Christian possesses. God gave us the tools to work with: The Holy Bible – study God’s Word. Prayer – seek God, ask Him to help you find the answer. Fast – afflict your soul for a set time. Humble yourself – remember, God hates haughty high-minded behavior (Isaiah 2:11-12). Put out a “fleece” before the Lord, just as Gideon did in Judges 6:36-40.
Reaching a Conclusion
At some point, you are going to have to reach a decision and close the matter. Following are some points to consider:
Have you looked at the “Big Picture”?
What do the Churches of God as a whole say about the subject? For example, the current consensus among the Churches regarding the subject of the sacred name is that it is appropriate to use the English name of our Savior when referring to Him. You would be perfectly just in siding with the consensus.
Whose authority should you follow? This question applies to those subjects for which there is very little Biblical guidance. The calendar issue, once again, is a good example. We know of at least 5 different ways that are being taught by different groups to calculate the calendar. God has trusted His people to devise a system and to administer it. The Churches of God have agreed, as a whole, to use the Hebrew calendar. They have exercised the authority God gave in selecting this method (Matt. 16:19).
Should you separate from a group as a result of your conclusion?
Is the issue doctrine-related? Some argue that vegetarianism should be practiced in God’s Church. If you are a vegetarian by choice, you can still fellowship with those who aren’t. God’s Word says to be tolerant of one another in these matters (Rom. 14:1-3). You would not be justified to make a doctrine either for or against the practice.
Is there a way to compromise? Some think it is appropriate to go out to eat at restaurants on the Sabbath after Church before sunset. You may disagree with this practice. But, can you still fellowship with the group who practices it? Absolutely! Just don’t go! If they are following Christ, they will understand, and may decide at some point to follow your good example. A beautiful example of compromise was noted in a recent Churches of God newsletter, and is a great example of setting aside differences in the Spirit of love and unity. In describing her experiences at that particular 2001 Feast of Tabernacles site, the author wrote (with some very witty humor): “We had conjunction, crescent and traditional calendar observers; exclusive, sometime, and not-at-all sacred namers; WCGers, SDAs, Baptists, Pentecostals, and independents; and a mix of standard hymns, messianic, worship, praise, and Celtic-style harp music.” This feast was described as being the “best yet.” What a wonderful Spirit of love these people must have! We should learn from their example.
What does God’s Word say about unity? The scripture references are many, and here are a few: Psalm 133:1; Eph 4:1-16; Mark 3:24-25; I Cor 1:10-13; I Cor 12: 12-27.
How long should it take to reach a conclusion?
Be led by the Spirit (Rom. 8:14). The answer won’t always come quickly, especially when the subject requires much study. Give yourself enough time so that you don’t make a hasty decision that you’ll regret later. You may never have the “right” answer. Those subjects for which there are little to no scripture basis will fall into this category. Keep this guide in mind, and don’t give up! Luke 11:10, James 1:5
Make the decision when you’re ready to stick with it. James 1:6-8. What a poor example we are when we’re double-minded, “wishy-washy.” And, if you’ve been wrong about something, be ready and willing to admit it.
Conclusion
“But the will of God won’t lead you where the Grace of God can’t keep you, and you will never be out of His care, remember that the Lord’s already there.” That’s how the 1st verse ends in
the song mentioned at the beginning of this guide. Keep this song verse in mind as you struggle with the deeper questions, the meat of the Word. Through all of your struggling, don’t lose sight of the purpose of your life. Some get so bogged down with strange theories, prophetic interpretations, etc, that they lose track of the weightier matters: judgment, mercy and faith (Matt. 23:23). The Bible gives a clear definition of religion in James 1:27.
People can write words on paper to give you suggestions on how to make the right decisions. That’s all this article is. Your true and incomparable guide is the Holy Spirit, which gives you the understanding of the Book of Holy Scriptures – the Bible – the Word of God (2 Cor. 3:6).
God bless you on your journey!
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