This kind of perversion is a spirit of high-class mindedness that prevails among Christian ministers and is evident in their speeches and gallery or media display in which they speak of friendships or acquaintance with rich, powerful, and popular or elite figures; portray themselves in context of or association with Universities, Clubs, or Associations; and create an environment of aloofness from the common people. Whenever they show themselves with the common, it is like condescending to help them. This pervert spirit craves to be seen as popular figures, whose meetings are jampacked, crowds number in thousands or millions, and who have a large subscription or fan following. The book of James rebukes this spirit of snobbish perversion.
"Last Supper" by Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo (1750) Yes, it is. Water baptism identifies one with the redemption work of Jesus Christ, with His death, burial, and resurrection. It is anticipated of visible identification with Christ and His Church. Every person has the personal responsibility to examine him/herself before deciding to partake in the Lord's Table. The Bible makes it clear that those who chose not to be baptized were rejecting the counsel of God (Lk.7:30). In a mixed congregation, it is not possible to always know who is worthy to partake of the Table; however, the minister must encourage only those who have been baptized for remission of sins (not just as a ritual but by faith in Jesus Christ) to partake of the Table. Before Jesus sat down to dip bread in the cup, He washed His disciples' feet. He makes the statement that they are already "washed" and only need feet to be washed. Of course, this may not explicitly/only refer to their baptism, fo
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