Does it Matter?

The key thing is being Christlike with those who we disagree with; at least with me. People would rather not reveal what it is they particularly believe in for fear that others might disagree and chances are they would be right. But disagreement does not necessarily mean that a loss of respect is at hand. I do have to admit that when it comes to doctrine we do gather around ourselves those who are like minded and feel special affinity to these. With others outside of the circle we have chosen to adopt for ourselves, we might share deep thoughts with but may be wary with other more intimate things like marriage and matters that pertain to our differences. Frankly, I wonder how two people might join in a real union in holy matrimony unless they first both think alike in matters of doctrine. This is the case with my wife and I. With us we have grown together to think alike in matters of doctrine bit by bit. Regarding the issues pertaining to doctrinal differences I would never confide in a Baptist or a Nazarene or a Lutheran, for they do not agree with my position on many things therefore they cannot be a help to me. That does not mean that I cannot appreciate them as people and as brothers and sisters in Christ. As regarding my own children I would certainly counsel them that, before they consider marriage, they understand their partner's doctrinal position to see if they might live with the results of their findings. This is where it is of primary importance not to be emotionally attached so that these kinds of issues can be dealt with soberly and properly. An emotional decision is really an uneducated decision that could lead to unnecessary problems. I would seriously question whether a reformed woman marry an Arminian man - that she has not done justice to the question whether such a union is proper. Yes I am actually toying with the application of the biblical principle that they may be unequally yoked together and thus consider it (the reformed woman) as sin. I am thankful that I don't have too many readers because this statement would be terribly offensive. But since it is my blog I'll say it. But to those who might read it and disagree, I would charge that they think about it for a bit before they respond - if they ever do. There has always been fighting between these camps and for some VERY good reasons.

In the case of the reformed man marrying an Arminian woman if he is a true leader and takes leadership of his family as top priority I would have less trouble with this union as she, being more emotionally swayed than he. If she takes her role in marriage seriously, she would be more apt to "come around" to be a better help mate for her husband who loves her. What about the reformed Baptist and Presbyterian believers? The issue at stake mainly is on infant baptism and the dispensationalism strain that runs through the rejection of the practice. I deal with this issue (infant baptism) elsewhere so I will not bring it up again here. These are points to consider seriously. Therefore, those who refuse to deal with them, especially during important, crucial times as marriage, are not being honest. They must be addressed. I do admit that most people could really care less out such things. This is to their shame. For in my desire to know God, doctrinal issues come front and center and my beliefs are solidified and fortified. The hard questions are asked and I become resolute in forming a worldview about such things. Doctrine preempts everything else for it fashions for us how we perceive the world and Christ. If we say doctrine is not important we make a doctrinal judgement that we best be prepared to defend.

-Joe