333 Words - Page 2 of 145

333 WORDS….

An open letter to adherents of the Kelowna Ministerial Association:

Paul taught the Corinthians, “Let two or three…. speak and let the others judge.” (NKJV). Please give my proposal prayerful consideration. Thank you.

Whereas there is a division within Christ’s church whereby members are segregated into either the clergy (or ministerial) and laity (laymen, laywomen); and

Whereas such division has no New Testament precedent; and

Whereas this practice is contrary to the words of the Lord Jesus, “All of you are equal as brothers and sisters.” (NLT); and

Whereas your denominational/associational licenses and ordination certificates are strong symbols propagating such division, I offer the following recommendation:

In the near future, after ample discussion and debate, agree to meet as a group in a public place (such as Kelowna City Park or Prospera Place) for the purpose of publicly disposing all such certificates, this preceded by a public announcement of your intention especially directed to those under your influence.

Consider disposing your certificates by casting them in a fire visible to all, or inserting them in a shredder, or simply tearing them before the audience and, more important, before the Lord Jesus.

And further, select one to vocalize sincere repentance unto the Lord Jesus, expressing the group’s regret for its part in the rendering of His church into two segments.

Please do not be slighted by this proposal, unusual but, from a Biblical perspective, reasonable. Instead consider….

Consider: The red words in your Bible give no hint His twelve were to be so endorsed.

Consider: Saul was certified (Acts 9); Paul was anointed.

Consider: Christ appealed to His works for endorsement, not a certificate.

Consider: Differences of conclusions, within your ranks, of various texts nullifies the argument that the practice of licensing protects the purity of the Word.

Faith moves God. Brothers, accepting this proposal could release the power of God in our city. Contemporaries elsewhere would know immediately of your brave deed, and some would follow your brave, Godly example.

Respectfully,

Larry Jones