1) When can we expect something besides a few proof texts?
What's worng with proof texts? Every passage of scripture within context is exactly and precisely true and is not in conflict with any other passage of scripture.
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2) When can we expect anything resembling exegetical explanations?
I am but a simple layman. However, Christ has taken away the right to judge doctrine away from all the learned theologians and given it to each and every Christian when He say, "My sheep hear my voice."
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3) When can we expect for you to actually overcome the dilemmas you create instead of simply posting further proof texts?
I have created no dilemmas. The dilemma affects those who feel that a little bit of error (women teaching through hymns) is OK but a lot of error (women preaching the sermon and administering the sacraments) is not so good.
What's wrong with proof texts? Every passage of scripture within context is exactly and precisely true and is not in conflict with any other passage of scripture.
Except when they are misinterpreted. Every cult has it's own set.
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I am but a simple layman. However, Christ has taken away the right to judge doctrine away from all the learned theologians and given it to each and every Christian when He say, "My sheep hear my voice."
Once again, I think you read to much into this passage. Certainly these sheep have theologians?
It is the sheep who judge whether the theologians speak the words of Christ or the words of strangers.
Your questions on atonement were answered in the atonement thread.
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Now only ordained men may sing?
Ordination is the confirmation of a divine call. Except in cases of necessity (e.g., absence of a minister, voice strain, etc.), a divine call is necessary to get in front of the congregation to sing or speak or to lead the congregation in singing or speaking. In cases of necessity, a man who meets the qualifications of a minister (1 Tim. 3:2-12; Titus 1:6-8) may sing or speak. When a man sings or speaks, in case of necessity, he does not sing or speak as a layman but he has become a minister.
Pilgrim said: On this one, and let's see if I can type my actual thoughts correctly <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/rolleyes2.gif" alt="" />, I believe that the collecting of the tithes and offerings is a specific task which belongs to the Deacons, which is an ordained office of the Church and of which only men may serve. Contrary to what John Piper thinks and others which hold to similar positions concerning the office of Deacon, the Scripture is VERY clear that only men may serve as Deacons and that it IS an office which has authority; e.g., the determination on how to distribute the Lord's money to those who are in need, etc. It is very unfortunate, as of late, that the office of Deacon is often looked upon as inferior to that of Elder and in the case of many, not even recognized as an "office" in the Church, but rather one akin to a Social Worker made up of willing volunteers, etc.
Hi Pilgrim,
That is pretty much my view as well. This has been one of the only disagreements I've had with the church I currently attend. I would say that I don't think they really view collecting the offering as a role of a deacon (they also let the youth take collect it sometime, which I also disagree with). But, just because they don't view it as a deacon's role doesn't make it not a deacon's role.
I'm not aware of Piper's views on the subject. Are there any web links to his beliefs?
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