The Highway Forums General Discussion Open Forum Muslim becomes Christian and so does his wives...

Joe,

Just as a reminder, this "half-way covenant" was duly opposed by Edwards. That was the main reason behind his breaking away from his grandfather Stoddard. This "half-way covenant" is not dissimilar to that which is practiced in most Continental Reformed churches and in some Presbyterian churches today. Read Kuyper, Schilder, &co., and you will see there are many similarities. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Abuses do not annul that which is required. The vast majority of churches today have little to do with private examination of applicants and consequently, entire congregations of unbelievers are "blessed" of the man behind a pulpit and assured that they are all destined for glory. What you are referring to, the extreme practices by a few, should not and cannot do away with what should be done. If I am to err I would much rather it be on being too "strict" as opposed to opening a "wide gate" and in do doing bring a false assurance to those who need Christ.

If Scripture commands that a person examine himself over the course of their lifetime, a short session before the Elders asking as to what is believed and what is in one's heart before one is admitted into the assembly is hardly something to oppose. Remember, to the church is given the "keys of the kingdom" with which the door is either locked or opened. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

In His grace,