The following is reprinted from THE CHRISTIAN NEWS, a staunch publication contending earnestly and vigorously for the faith as it is presently fudged to be under attack in tile Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. The thrust of this article is definitely apropos also for “conservatives” in the CRC as well as for those in other denominations. If the shoe fits . . .
One of the most pathetic figures in Christ’s Passion Story is Pontius Pilate. He was unwilling to do the wrong, condemn an innocent Man to death. Unfortunately, he was also afraid to do the right, use his authority and power to free and protect that Man against the murderous attacks of a hostile mob. So, poor Pilate ended up doing the very wrong he did not want to do.
Many “conservative” pastors in Synod would not think of preaching and teaching any of the unscriptural doctrinal aberrations now emanating from 801 DeMun Avenue, St. Louis, Mo. The very thought horrifies them. For these pastors know that such teachings arc wrong. Unfortunately, too many of these self-same individuals are strangely silent in speaking out openly and publicly against such unscriptural teachings and practices and their proponents. For they are unwilling to face the unpleasant officialdom, public ridicule and unpopularity, possible monetary loss, etc. How will it all end?
May Pilate’s ultimate action jar these “conservatives” awake to see the tremendous spiritual danger threatening them because of their continued adherence to a “I-don’t-want-to-be-involved{ policy. It is not enough for such “conservatives” to express their misgivings and disapprovals when in the company of like-minded individuals and groups. Let them courageously witness in the face of a liberal-minded, vociferous minority at pastoral conferences and conventions despite any and all unpleasant consequences this may bring down upon them. For the almighty Lord and Savior of the Church always has the last word in such situations. He never fails those who remain loyal and faithful to Him and His Word.
One of the most pathetic figures in Christ’s Passion Story is Pontius Pilate. He was unwilling to do the wrong, condemn an innocent Man to death. Unfortunately, he was also afraid to do the right, use his authority and power to free and protect that Man against the murderous attacks of a hostile mob. So, poor Pilate ended up doing the very wrong he did not want to do.
Many “conservative” pastors in Synod would not think of preaching and teaching any of the unscriptural doctrinal aberrations now emanating from 801 DeMun Avenue, St. Louis, Mo. The very thought horrifies them. For these pastors know that such teachings arc wrong. Unfortunately, too many of these self-same individuals are strangely silent in speaking out openly and publicly against such unscriptural teachings and practices and their proponents. For they are unwilling to face the unpleasant officialdom, public ridicule and unpopularity, possible monetary loss, etc. How will it all end?
May Pilate’s ultimate action jar these “conservatives” awake to see the tremendous spiritual danger threatening them because of their continued adherence to a “I-don’t-want-to-be-involved{ policy. It is not enough for such “conservatives” to express their misgivings and disapprovals when in the company of like-minded individuals and groups. Let them courageously witness in the face of a liberal-minded, vociferous minority at pastoral conferences and conventions despite any and all unpleasant consequences this may bring down upon them. For the almighty Lord and Savior of the Church always has the last word in such situations. He never fails those who remain loyal and faithful to Him and His Word.