Struggles of the church: Sameism

ACTS 15 The big THEOLOGICAL ISSUE today: "Grace plus _________ equals salvation" ------ different people fill the blank with different theologies ------ such as grace + baptism = salvation PROBLEMS WITH SAMEISM (when everyone thinks, acts and believes the same way) - neglects growing room "God gets to determine when and how someone grows and matures" - assumes righteousness "If we ever get to a place where we think we have God (the infinite, all-knowing creator) figured out, maybe we can execute more humility." - concentrates on externals - motivated by jealousy "when we demand them to bear the burdens I have...we are jealous they have liberty or a freedom in Christ we may not have" --- is there ever a time to part ways?   yes (sadly) ----- WHY? - serious theological teaching is debated HOW? - carefully and patiently considered [be slow to anger and quick to listen] John 1:19 - receive representative counsel (including those who don't agree with you - in Acts 15, everybodys got a say) - biblical and holy spirit evidences NEVER - when an "-ism" occurs. reference last few weeks of sermons at FBC Clarion (meism, heroism, themism, etc.)