Landmarkism and Ecumenism are two
opposite extremes. The former is overstrict while the latter is
overlenient. Landmarkism is too literalistic in its Bible interpretation
whereas Ecumenism is over liberal. The former believes that no one will
go to Heaven except themselves. The latter believes that everyone will
go to Heaven, even those who openly reject Christ and God. My conviction
is the right biblical stand is an optimal point in between Landmarkism
and Ecumenism. And I think that the Baptist Confession is around that
optimal area. More importantly though, Baptists must live out their confession genuinely throughout.
The
extent of working alongside or doing ministry with churches of
different confessions than the Baptist Confession depends on the extent
of the difference:
In Essentials, Unity
In Non-Essentials, Liberty
In All things, Charity
Charity
is agape love which covers a multitude of sins (1 Pet 4:8). Love of God
(Matt 22:37-38) and others (Matt 5:43-48; 7:12; 22:39) must always
prevail in any and every circumstance. Of all christian doctrines, the
Commandment of Love is one of the greatest, if not the greatest
'practical doctrine'. 1 Corinthians 13 reminds us of the primordial
position of agape love in christian living. Let's uphold the Truth of
our Baptist Confession absolutely in Love! (ICor13:6).
Let's always Love in the Truth!
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