The Daily Bible readings have moved on to 2 John today (December 6), and I’ve got another “issue.” Specifically, 2 John 1 9-11:
9 Everyone who does not abide in the teachings of Christ, but goes beyond it, does not have God; whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 Do not receive into the house or welcome anyone who comes to you and does not bring this teaching; 11 for to welcome is to participate in the evil deeds of such a person.
This seems to be to be in direct conflict with Jesus’ teachings. Even if you grant that these people are participating in “evil deeds,” didn’t Jesus say that it was the sick who need a doctor, rather than the healthy?
The phrase “go beyond” is particularly troubling for me. What does it mean to “go beyond?” Don’t John, and Paul, and all of the other members of the early church “go beyond” the teachings of Christ by applying them to situations not specifically covered by Jesus during his ministry on Earth? I don’t believe that Christians are called to have a “spiritual lobotomy,” but rather are called to think for themselves. Two thoughtful, sincere, authentic Christians can and often do hold diametrically opposite views on spiritual and temporal issues, including “hot buttons” like abortion and homosexuality.
Thoughts?
