concerning my initial read of the thread starting article:
I experienced an opportunity in my spirit to find agreement with giving attention to a pretty dramatic dicotomy in the phrases:
Rule Based
Principle Based
These are foundational in establishing the approach for delivery of a message, a counsel, an instruction in righteousness, or a correction among (or between) fitly joined members of God's body.
I submit that a "rule based" approach is the primary delivery system of viewholders that suppose there are RULERS in the body of Christ. By illustration: "God tells RULERS what is needed, and rulers tell hears what you should do (the rules)." The role of the messenger in this approach is mediator or go-between. There is an operation of authority applied involving the speaker and the hearer.
In my opinion, the Principle-based delivery system makes no such claim of being an intermediary or having any authority in any role
'with respect to' the hearer. The hearer is fully responsible for applying or discarding the principle. Also, the hearer must soberly consider the legitimacy of the messanger/gifting servant that is involved in this delivery experience.
Principle-based interactions between the mechanisms that God has provided (to bless/edify) AND the members of his body, leave fully intact the scriptural admonition to:
1.Work out our own salvation with fear and trembling
2.Study to show ourselves approved
3.Calling no man rabbi, for ye have ONE master
4.Having no Lords as the gentiles do
5.Considering those who are elders and leaders who have been provided as guides who must give account for their service in prospering our souls.
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