Quote:
Originally Posted by Igzy
Evangelical, Have you ever heard the saying "Preach the gospel. And when necessary use words"?
The "social gospel" is a mischaracterization. As I said in an earlier post, the dichotomy between the spiritual and the natural in this case is an artificial one. Or, more precisely, only those who are falsely spiritual fret about the difference. The truly spiritual simply do whatever it takes, spiritual or natural--that is caring for other's spirits, or souls or bodies, and the things that keep all operating--and don't worry that much about differentiating. God will lead us into balance. But the Bible is clear that if you see someone in need you are supposed to have a heart to help them if you can, not excuse yourself because since you are spiritual helping people practically is beneath you.
The bottom line is the Church is supposed to express the nature of God. Is this not a central tenet of the LCM? Does God not care for the practical needs of people? Is this not in his nature? How can you express his nature and not express his practical care for people in some way?
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"If every church member tithed the Church would collect another $165 billion a year, which would solve the world problems of hunger, thirst, literacy, mission funding... with $100 billion left over."
I don't believe that church members tithing is the problem, it is the church leadership who choose to spend the money on themselves and not these good deeds that you mentioned.
The Gospel is the core business of the church just like selling hamburgers is the core business of Macdonalds and selling fried chicken is the core business of KFC.
In my experience of the local churches I have only experienced care and concern of my whole being. This is a group who are always giving you food and invite you for meals and if you need help with your house painted or car fixed, there is someone willing to lend a hand. In fact I think it is a bit too helpful and too concerned. Unlike denominations where you can attend a service and leave without anyone speaking with you.
I don't believe Witness Lee have ever made such distinction between practical needs and spiritual needs and said we should disregard one for the other. In the teachings, often, both Christ's humanity and his divinity are stressed, in so-called shepherding and nourishing. Maybe some have, and this is what your negative experiences are based upon. But I find no evidence from this in the teachings or my experiences.