Even as the one and only God is Triune: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit--so this same God would have His redeemed people function in three basic realms, all of which are to be balanced and full. They are these . . .
The Word of God (2 Tim. 3:16-17); the Church (1 Tim. 3:15); and the Spirit (Jn. 6:63).
Those who believe they can achieve salvation with their Bibles only--detesting the Church and/or the Spirit--are no better off than the devil, who knows what the truth is, but refuses to love it (and the God of truth).
Those who think they can get by with the Church alone, without the Scripture and the Spirit--fall into the error of exalting a man over God, (viz., a pope).
Those who think they are led by the "Spirit," independently of the Church and the Word, are no more than fanatics, devoid of the true Spirit.
A good verse that wraps up this "triune" life orientation may be found in Rev. 22:17, which says this:
"And the Spirit and the bride say, 'Come!' And let him who hears say, 'Come!' And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely."
Here, the Scripture, the Church, and the Spirit all call us to faith and life in the Christ of the gospel.
The Forum for Ecclesiocentricity is designed to educate Christians and non-Christians alike to understand the Biblical teaching concerning the Church (the "Puritan" church in particular), with regard to its principal role on the earth. When this is achieved, it is hoped that the Church would then be in a better position to convey Christ's redemptive virtues to the civil government (state), and the family. (You may email me at: markjhenninger@gmail.com)
