Quote:
Originally Posted by DanShaf
In our small country assembly we TEACH early and often the importance of making a life together,as man and wife! Everyone is welcome, The Word is sharp and it sometimes divides.We do not presume to have the authority to cast out or forgive.God's Word will do the work.
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That's fair. I happen to believe that the church does have the authority to cast out or administer the forgiveness of sin. In fact, I think that sometimes it's the responsibility of the elders. Jesus said,
John 20:23
"Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained."
I believe that if a remarried couple acknowledges their sin in remarrying and come before the elder(s) in repentance seeking forgiveness... it can be given to them.
However, Apostolic Authority also means that the elder(s) can bind one's sin upon them. So a person who is remarrying with a spirit of contempt can be condemned and their sin retained:
Matthew 18:17
"And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican."
Romans 16:17-18
"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
1 Corinthians 5:11
"But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat."
2 Thessalonians 3:14
"And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed."
Just my belief. If one does not believe in Apostolic Authority I do not judge them.
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