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* DOCTRINE SUMMARY *
The Old Covenant law has lapsed.
However, the two key 'pegs' still form the fundamental guide for
Christian behaviour.
- You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart,
with all your soul, and with all your mind.
- You shall love your neighbour as yourself.
To this most basic instruction, a New Covenant requirement has been
added.
John 13:34 A new commandment I give to you,
that you love one another,
as I have loved you,
that you also love one another.
(A command for Christians to have
concern for the spiritual welfare
of each other.)
This 'new commandment' composes the central theme of New Testament
teaching!
- Spiritual equivalents of Old Covenant requirements allude to
aspects of it.
- New Testament comments refer directly or indirectly to it.
The maintenance of an overall perspective is important. The following
points should be noted:
- The sacrifice of Jesus Christ should never be considered
to have eliminated an individuals need to grow spiritually
through the regular study of the Word of God and participation
in the Work.
- The performance of what appears to be New Testament rituals,
such as baptism and the Lord's Supper, will not lead to
salvation. One must see through the symbolism and do what
is actually being inferred.
- Excessive emphasis upon individual behaviour is unbalanced!
Church hierarchies which cling to their tradition, refusing
to bring their past teachings into harmony with a deeper
understanding of the written Word of God, will bring God's
prophetic judgment upon themselves and their flock.
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