In reference to the Early Church, Hugh T. Kerr notes that "the Roman political establishment forced the amorphous church to adopt administrative structures for its own institutional organization." What was forced upon the church for the free continuation of its practice and existence? Is it the aforementioned governmental influence that has led to the establishments, processes, and institutionalization of the current church? Do we need to recover, then, the function of the church as described in Acts 2 rather than that which is spelled out by such Early Church fathers as Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Perpetua, Tertullian, and Origen? Or were these men fighting for something legitimate?
Matthew 5:38-48, NASB
"You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone want to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you. You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? If you greet only you brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
1 comment:
Good point Travis! do we need to recover? absolutely if Jesus taught it i need to know it. one point before i leave, remember that ALOT of manuscripts and bible and such was burned between 300 and about 1600 when the printing press was invented which leaves alot of room for error.
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