James, you would love the Quakers. I spent five years in that denomination, attending their schools, etc. One thing they hammered on (Sunday School lessons [so it seems] were constantly "harping" on the no water baptism theme} was no more water baptism. The baptism of the Spirit replaced water. They also do not believe in having communion---no ritual whatsoever. It was always interesting to hear the kids address the adults---even the 90 year olds---by their first name.
Practising silence (the presence of God) was a tremendous discipline they had. You would sit in your pew with no organ background, no taped songs---just you and the LORD---SILENCE---those were some of the golden moments of memory.
However, they didn't "convert" me from baptism and communion and I ceased attending their church following graduation. However, I have the utmost respect for them and they are a marvelous people. No bearing of arms and "conscientous objecters" was also a part of their fabric. Although I knew a few of them that "went off to war" and helped defend democracy.
The thief on the cross was not baptized, and I recall that was a pivotal part of their "see" I can show you it's not important.
Speaking of Paul, I was "counseling" a lady one time and quoted some sripture from one of the Pauline epistles. The ladies response brought me up short. She said: "Paul was a male chauvanist!" <ggg>
Have a splendid day, James
Jack |
