×

God’s standards really do matter

To the Journal editor:

Concerning our friends at St. Michael’s parish, it is too bad we can’t make church into whatever pleases us. But, it is Christ’s Church because He paid for it. He also (not people) set the standards for conduct and He has determined that certain behaviors will keep us out of His kingdom. Reference 1 Corinthians 6:9, I Timothy 1:10 and Revelation 21:8.

After Christ’s death, God sent us the Holy Spirit, who helps us uphold His standards, so that they are not unattainable.

The scriptures say that man was made in the image of God. That is quite different than saying that God reflects our imaginings. In fact, He says in Isaiah 55:8, “My ways are not your ways and My thoughts are not your thoughts.” The whole book of Judges spotlights people who “did what seemed right in their own eyes.”

As for ministry, God has always stressed the purity of those who performed ministry not to be perfect, but then again, not openly sinful either.

Most catechisms ask, “What is the purpose of man?” with the answer being, “The purpose of man is to glorify God.”

Well then, a subsequent question might logically be, “What is the purpose of the church?” One response is, “To understand, live, and extend the kingdom of God.”

To be loving and forgiving and effusively tolerant has such an air of loftiness and seems to be on such morally high ground yet, before we know it, there are no real standards and we will be back to doing “what seems right in our own eyes” with virtually no ability to correct anything.

Therefore, since no one is at liberty to change God’s word, and the behavior that has generated this discussion is clearly contrary to the scriptures and in violation of kingdom principles, the St. Michael’s parish leadership is correct in the stand it has taken.

Alternatives do not exist in Bible believing churches, so those who are upset may need to plug into organizations for whom such behavior might be acceptable e.g. service groups, glee clubs and the like.

CURT?RIFE

Marquette

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today