>Could you advise concerning members participating in Vacation Bible School conducted by denominations. Thank you.

The word of God is clear in its teaching that we are not to have fellowship with those who teach and practice contrary to the doctrine of Christ (2 Jno. 9-11; Gal. 1:6-10). The reason is therein stated: one is out of fellowship with God when he goes beyond the doctrine of Christ. Thus, to participate with such a one is to share in evil (error). This is why we are taught to "have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather even reprove them" (Eph. 5:11).

The denominations exist without the authority of Christ. He neither built them nor does He sustain them by His word of truth (Matt. 16:18; 28:18). In addition, many of their teachings and practices are against the word of Christ (Col. 3:17). Therefore, we should not encourage brethren to participate with them in their works, including their Vacation Bible Schools.

If brethren are doing so, I would encourage them to consider 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1, where we are taught to be separate from that which violates the the word of God. The verse teaches us that there is not a "middle ground" of fellowship where truth and error co-exist. We should be wise enough to know that if our children are influenced to think there is nothing wrong with the denominations they will grow up believing it, and the church will face many, many problems (not to mention the soul's salvation of those little ones who grow up with such a mistaken view).

I would urge you to help these brethren understand the distinctive nature of truth and our Master's call to be different from the world, which includes the churches of men (1 Thess. 5:14; Heb. 12:12-13).

I hope this if of help to you and to those brethren who may be participating in such things. May the Lord bless us all with spiritual wisdom to rightly divide and apply His word to our lives.

Sincerely in Christ,

Joe Price

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Joe R Price
joe@bibleanswer.com

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