General Rules of Conduct

As We Gather Together

Let us consider how to stimulate one another on to love and good deeds, not forsaking, but encouraging one another with the following guidelines for emphatic dialogue:

Our ultimate goal is to glorify God.

This is a forum for learning. No one should feel intimidated, because we are all students and this should be fun!

By meeting together, encouraging one another, and studying with each other, we should grow in our knowledge.

Be cautious, as “knowledge puffs up”, but "love abides".  Knowing ABOUT God is important; KNOWING God is the purpose.

Outline for approaching controversial topics

• We need to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge.

• First identify what we agree on (Sovereignty of God, Christ as the head proclaimed, time frame, intended audience, stated meaning, application, etc.)

• Importance of using Scripture to interpret Scripture

• Give example of dispute of author of book of Hebrews

Why debate? Benefits of discussing/debating controversial topics:

• Inspires you to search God’s Word
• Increases your understanding of differing viewpoints
• Motivates you to become familiar with the numerous study aides on God's Word that are available, such as commentaries by Mathew Henry, Calvin, and Hendriksen
• Better enable you to “make known with boldness the mystery of the Gospel.”