There are too many pastors out there who feel some sort of "calling" or that it is their "responsibility" to make some sort of statement about Rob Bell's latest book. Its no secret that the majority of these "reviews" have just been excuses for Bell's enemies to publicly attack him behind the safety and security of their home computer screens. Tell me if I'm wrong, but something about that just doesn't seem right...
Now I must been truthfully honest with you, I have not yet finished reading Love Wins, so I have no right to state my opinion on the ideas that Bell offers, but with that truth on the table, I would like to offer one thought.
What can we learn from Love Wins?
Not the text, but simply, these two words.
In the early hours of the church, believers met together in community to commune, to pray, and to learning. I think there's something more to be said about this scenario than Acts 2:42 initially reveals. In these gatherings, believers would have been free to express and discuss ideas regarding their scriptural interpretations in an atmosphere of love and security. Behind closed doors, ideas could have been safely discussed, rejected or accepted, all the while maintaining a level of love and respect for the teacher.
I believe its within this Acts 2:42 context that we find the most appropriate application of the words "love wins."
Yes as the body of Christ we are all entitled to our opinions about issues regarding faith, but if we refuse conduct ourselves in love when coming to and sharing our conclusions, we might as well keep our mouths shut.
Opinions of this book may undoubtedly vary, but there is indeed one truth that must certainly be taken: When classless, public slander goes to war with compassionate, private disagreement, Love Wins.
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