Forgiveness hits hard in all directions and it is a part of many problems in organized religion today. I have seen the issue of divorce held on people to the point where preachers will not marry people who have been divorced. I have never understood this at all. I have seen preachers hold up as an example some vile person who God saved. They will proudly point out in detail the things God has forgiven them of. They will say that the sin is buried in the sea, as deep as east is from west, never to be remembered again by God against us. How do people on one hand preach this and then turn around and hold something against certain people. I see this type of what I call "situational forgiveness" as the downfall of many self proclaimed men of God. They pick their pet ideas and prioritize them to there liking. How else do you explain coming down so hard on an issue that the bible is so very clear on. Are they forgiven or not? If they are than get over your power trip and let it go. If not look at them and tell them that they have committed a sin that is unforgivable. Don't let them be a participating member and than tell them there not worthy of your blessings when it comes to marriage. This is one example of the standard operating procedure when it comes to forgiveness being used as a club for personal gain. I have blood squirting out of my ears and eyes every time I think about this control tactic. There are so many things in the bible that need no explaining and if simply followed, as written, will lead everyone to heaven. Why do we let these people convince us that they know more about this than we do. The bible clearly states that a child could figure it out.
Just line up the issues that have split lifelong friends and family and take a good look. Most of the issues had nothing to do with salvation. Most of the time it is a situation of people taking sides on an issue because of who they think is right and not what is right. I have a suggestion. Let's concentrate on the red letters in the bible. These are the word of Jesus. When we get that right then we can talk about these man made issues that keep Gods children at each others throats today. I am not impressed that you say you have seen the light when it comes to the book of revelation and cover up for sin right under your nose in broad daylight. We do not have a lack of knowledge. We have a lack of confidence. I am really trying to not give into the temptation to do what Rick warned against. "Throwing the baby out with the bath water."
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