After reading John B’s two recent letters, I realize we have some significant differences in how we understand the scriptures.

It is not simply he and I, but there is a vast array of differences, right here on FiveDoves, sending in letters each week.

I find the differences to be amazing.

How does it happen like that?

Some differ on the timing of the blessed hope relative to the Lord’s return to the earth.

Some differ on who goes in the blessed hope.

Some differ on the sabbath.

Some differ on staying saved.

Some differ on preservation.

Some differ on who are Israel.

Some differ on the nature of heaven.

What intrigues me most is how it happens like it does.

From where do the differences arise?

Can some of our doctrines actually come from our own hearts?

I think it is too simplistic to try and blame it all on doctrines of devils.

After all, who then has the correct doctrine?

Each of us must believe that we have the correct doctrine, for each situation where there are differences.

Have any of us changed any of our doctrines over the years since we’ve been saved?

Some doctrines are so deeply held, that no matter what kind of scriptural arguments are posed to us, we won’t change.

I’m certainly not throwing in the towel, but I am perplexed.