Observations from Amish country...
Posted by Philip A. Schipper on Monday, June 10, 2013
We are in a revival in Nappanee, Indiana this week. This area is home to many Amish families. There is a fascination that American culture has with the simple and slow-paced lifestyle of the Amish. From the well-kept farms, to the expert craftsmanship of their furniture, to the simple goodness of their food - those in the "rat race" of American culture seen curious about these people who, in spite of modern conveniences, choose to maintain their quaint and quiet lives.
The Amish are governed by the traditions passed down from their forefathers. They do what the do, because it is what their people have always done. Much pressure is applied to "stay in line" by others in the community. Typically, when someone leaves the Amish community, they are barred from family, friends and faith. This usually results the departing individual running as fast and as far as possible from they have known.
I have notice much of the same behavior from those in the IFB (Independent Fundamental Baptist) movement. Sadly, a substantial amount of what is preached and taught is little more than "the traditions passed down from their forefathers."
We have a Bible that God inspired and preserved, in its inspired state. We are instructed to "preach the Word" (2 Timothy 4:2). We are not to preach our opinions or our traditions, but the WORD!!! The written Word reveals the Living Word - JESUS CHRIST! LET'S PREACH CHRIST!
The Amish are governed by the traditions passed down from their forefathers. They do what the do, because it is what their people have always done. Much pressure is applied to "stay in line" by others in the community. Typically, when someone leaves the Amish community, they are barred from family, friends and faith. This usually results the departing individual running as fast and as far as possible from they have known.
I have notice much of the same behavior from those in the IFB (Independent Fundamental Baptist) movement. Sadly, a substantial amount of what is preached and taught is little more than "the traditions passed down from their forefathers."
We have a Bible that God inspired and preserved, in its inspired state. We are instructed to "preach the Word" (2 Timothy 4:2). We are not to preach our opinions or our traditions, but the WORD!!! The written Word reveals the Living Word - JESUS CHRIST! LET'S PREACH CHRIST!
