Pastor Kyung Jun Lee of Seoul Down church, who was the speaker of revival at SBC a few years ago, told us about the 'Ten commandments for church life'. Recently, I found the memo I made at that time and shared the first 5 items last week and in this issue, I continue the remaining part. The first 5 items are about relationship with God so it is not too much different from the original Ten Commandments; however the rem items have greater application to church life. As I told you last week, the captions are from the memo at that time and the explanation is what I added.
You shall not murder - If there is any conflict in a relationship, do not delay in reconciliation : Since Jesus said that hating someone is the same as murdering him, this application is true. In church, if an uncomfortable relationship is not tended and left neglected, hatred grows in its place. Therefore, remember the words of Jesus to reconcile with your brothers and sisters before offering gifts in front of the altar (Matthew 5:23-24), and let not Sunday pass over conflict.
You shall not commit adultery - Do not allow a chance for temptation : We all need to be on our guard against temptations. Wearing a provocative outfit to church is one example. Please do not ask nor accept for counseling with the opposite sex even though they are house church leaders. Also, married people should not work alone with other married ones even for ministry work nor share any spiritual matter. Especially, a brother’s visit to a sister who is in the US without her husband normally to fix something or render some help could be a chance for a temptation. Therefore, both parties should act prudently and not allow the enemy to lure us in our weaknesses.
You shall not steal - Care for church items : Generally, articles in church get out of order quickly and sometimes go missing. Using church items without care since it does not belong to you is like stealing from God. As we learn to care for church items as for our own, the church will become a beautiful place.
You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor - Avoid criticism or slander : The world is quick to judge. At least inside of the church, we should wait on people who have done wrong and guide them to receive the direction of the Holy Spirit. When there are many words from us, it robs the chance for God to speak. As a result, rash criticism and defamation can cause the victim to leave church and prevent him from listening to God. It also prevents him from repentance before God and robs his chance to be restored.
You shall not covet your neighbor’s house - Do not compare with each other : For church life to be happy, church should not operate by the worldly standard but by faith and devotion to God. I am very grateful that this is achieved in our church and that the congregation is happy in church life. Comparison is a way to self-inflicted misery. Please do not bring worldly standards into church. It is alright to celebrate a success in the world, but it is not something to be envied or admired. It is pleasing to God for us to remember that.
- Pastor Rein