Not So Famous…

Last night, my wife and I along with our friend Gabe were interviewed by our church’s Session for membership.  Basically, what this means is that we sit down with the elders of the church, and they ask us questions about what we believe. Ultimately, this process is to weed out those who have come to the church and believe things that cannot be reconciled with the Word of God. The Bible says we are to cast out those who can cause harm to the church, and this was actually quite common in times past.

Some people Kim or I have recently talked with have indicated that they were sort of aghast that our church would actually interview potential members to ascertain their level of doctrinal understanding.  I’m not entirely sure why.  Pastor put it well last night when he said “We’re not trying to see if you’re a walking encyclopedia of theology.  We just want to make sure you don’t believe erroneously on any crucial issues of doctrine.” Now, to be sure, many Christians feel there is little that can be considered to be crucial, but this is not the case.  The clear teaching of Scripture prevails, and we are accountable for the things which the Lord has revealed to us.

It was a wonderful evening, really. First Kim and I were interviewed as a family, and then we sat while Gabe was interviewed.  The differences in our style of answering the questions was hilarious.  While I tended to be quite long-winded to ensure that I got everything out correctly, Gabe tended to more 1-word answers, and he had to be prompted by Pastor and others.  (I had to be prompted for the many things I left out as well.)

Many of you are wondering how I FEEL about having my faith examined.  Let me tell you, there can be no more wonderful thing.  When I state what I have learned about the Scriptures, and when these wonderful, learned men of God nod, or smile, or laugh with me about a joke…there is nothing like it.  To have your faith affirmed by the Pastor agreeing with you, or even just asking questions for clarification…it was just awesome.

Furthermore, to know that I am obeying the Lord by subjecting myself to the Biblical authority of the elders is a comforting feeling.  The Bible says we submit to the authorities God has placed above us AS UNTO THE LORD.  Around Modesto, we have had at least one situation where a pastor has resisted the authority of the elders which he vowed to submit to, and then has gone to start his own church.  That kind of unscriptural behavior is unfitting of a pastor, and really reveals the heart far better than thousands of sermons.

Last night we vowed before the Session to submit to the authority of the elders and to continue growing in grace as we walk with the Lord. A week from this Sunday, we will be admitted into membership.  WOOT!

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