We have been looking at the Gospel of Mark lately in our “MONDAY MINUTES,” but today I want to deviate from that focus in order to share an article by Elder Buddy Abernathy. This article on “labels” is very appropriate for our time, for we live in a day when it is common practice to label and marginalize those with whom we disagree. May we all take to heart what Bro. Buddy says in this writing!

May the Lord bless you is my prayer.

Elder Chris McCool, Pastor

CONCERNING RELIGIOUS LABELS

It is unwise to use “calvinist”, “arminian”, or any other religious label in a derogatory manner, especially when interacting with those we would label as such. I confess that I have been guilty of doing this. If we want to change the beliefs of those with whom we disagree, we should avoid using any language that might be unnecessarily offensive.

It is God’s will that we worship him in truth, i.e., with a correct understanding of Bible doctrine: “But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” (Jhn 4:23-24 KJV). Our beliefs are important because God does not need to be misrepresented. We don’t like it when people misrepresent our character. Likewise, God is not pleased when we misrepresent what he has revealed about himself in his word.

I’m a Primitive Baptist. We are not a denomination. In terms of interchurch fellowship, we have a close relationship with other Primitive Baptist congregations. However, in terms of church government, we are independent of one another. Each church is accountable to God alone. We believe we will “stand or fall” based on God’s judgment, not the judgment of other churches.

We refer to ourselves as Primitive Baptists so that we can identify others who hold common beliefs. In the past, it was common for other “denominations” to refer to us as “Hard Shell Baptists” or simply “hard shells”. I’m generally not offended by this label because these expressions have been used to criticize my beliefs, not me personally.

Jesus taught us to love our enemies (Mat. 5:44). How much the more ought we to love God’s children with whom we disagree. “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” (Phl 4:5 KJV)

Elder Buddy Abernathy