In my study of hermeneutics in the Restoration Movement, I got into a lot of details. Then one day I realized that all of the formulas (e.g. CENI: Command, Example, Necessary Inference) only accounted for about half of our real hermeneutics.
The other half is the guilt-by-association hermeneutic. If a denomination does it, we are not allowed to do it. So much for our freedom in Christ.
I also observe that those who say "We can celebrate the birth of Christ at any time during the year" never do so. They don't lead "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" in June. They talk about how they could do so if they wished, and how it does not have to be sung in December, but it never happens. I led it two days ago (well, the first verse as an opener, anyway).
I for one, am glad that the congregation I attend does not celebrate the Christmas holiday during worship. Many observe the holiday, but it isn't a part of worship services. If the tradition existed during the first century with the Apostles it would be a no brainer. There are pagan influences mixed in with this holiday as well as with Easter. Just seems to me to be one of those doors you don't want to open. I did lead Joy to the World just after Thanksgiving though...it is a great song, and could be sung at anytime throughout the year, and should be.
On Unity - I am all for Unity though and wouldn't object to some congregations observing this, or some other day they deem "special". Hopefully, I am the stronger brother, but I would be wary of what other influences brought into worship that might be introduced as a result that are not described in scripture. As always, I appreciate your perspectives, and the discussion on various matters, especially on matters of unity.
I would pray for the phrase “Jesus is the reason for every season!” would catch on and spread because HE should be that important all year round and not just at Christmas for most people. I know HE is for most of us, just wish people would feel that way all the time. Thanks for your podcasts!
(from the article)"The one side insists that anyone who puts up a nativity scene or says “Jesus is the reason for the season” is going beyond Scripture"
Can it be said that to live in a secular democracy or think about sending human beings to other planets or even the Moon, is “going beyond scripture?"
In my study of hermeneutics in the Restoration Movement, I got into a lot of details. Then one day I realized that all of the formulas (e.g. CENI: Command, Example, Necessary Inference) only accounted for about half of our real hermeneutics.
The other half is the guilt-by-association hermeneutic. If a denomination does it, we are not allowed to do it. So much for our freedom in Christ.
I also observe that those who say "We can celebrate the birth of Christ at any time during the year" never do so. They don't lead "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" in June. They talk about how they could do so if they wished, and how it does not have to be sung in December, but it never happens. I led it two days ago (well, the first verse as an opener, anyway).
I for one, am glad that the congregation I attend does not celebrate the Christmas holiday during worship. Many observe the holiday, but it isn't a part of worship services. If the tradition existed during the first century with the Apostles it would be a no brainer. There are pagan influences mixed in with this holiday as well as with Easter. Just seems to me to be one of those doors you don't want to open. I did lead Joy to the World just after Thanksgiving though...it is a great song, and could be sung at anytime throughout the year, and should be.
On Unity - I am all for Unity though and wouldn't object to some congregations observing this, or some other day they deem "special". Hopefully, I am the stronger brother, but I would be wary of what other influences brought into worship that might be introduced as a result that are not described in scripture. As always, I appreciate your perspectives, and the discussion on various matters, especially on matters of unity.
I would pray for the phrase “Jesus is the reason for every season!” would catch on and spread because HE should be that important all year round and not just at Christmas for most people. I know HE is for most of us, just wish people would feel that way all the time. Thanks for your podcasts!
(from the article)"The one side insists that anyone who puts up a nativity scene or says “Jesus is the reason for the season” is going beyond Scripture"
Can it be said that to live in a secular democracy or think about sending human beings to other planets or even the Moon, is “going beyond scripture?"
I think they're saying we need authorization for matters of religious practice, not every last thing we do.
Common cents prevails again Jack.....if only it would spread!