To all the Doves, and especially to Tefe:

 

   I have no problem with using extra-biblical writings as a source of information, especially in regards to history, customs of the day, culture, etc. My objection, as I stated from the beginning, is equating these works with Scripture, and in particular accepting the false teachings that some may contain. My intent was never to offend, but to instruct, using Scripture as a foundation.

 

    We are told in 2 Tim. 3 16-17 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."

 

    We are to be as the Bereans, of whom Paul said in Acts  17:10  "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." We are also told in 1 Thess. 5:21 to "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good."

 

   I do not have a problem being corrected if you can show me in the Word of God something that disproves what I have said. If my manner of contending for the faith offends some, then so be it. I would rather be concerned about what the Father thinks of me than what men think. We live in the end times when false teaching is rampant, and I consider this a serious matter. Early on in my walk I was led astray very easily because I simply believed what I was told by "Christians" and did not search out the matter according to the Scriptures. I would not want any undiscerning readers to accept every word that is written at this website as gospel truth and be led into error.

 

   "Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins." James 5: 20-21

 

   May the Lord bless you all with discernment and meet your needs.