Commentary on Schwan's Propositions on Unevangelical Practice - 1862 (#2)

"2. This means that since we expect justification before God, the renewal of the heart, and the fruits of the Spirit only through the Gospel, we have this one thing in mind in everything that we do, to give free course and sway to the Gospel."

Here is something that we seem to find tremendously difficult. It always seems easier to manipulate results with the law rather than to trust God and the Gospel.

When the church needs money, we are often guilty of finger pointing and trying to shame people into giving more rather than trusting the Holy Spirit to work through the Gospel to make people generous.

When we are disappointed in church attendance, we are tempted to make rules regarding membership privileges that are connected to church attendance. Such as giving a break in school tuition to those who are more faithful, etc.

As soon as we use the world's standards to judge success, we are tempted to use the world's methods to create this success rather than relying on the promises of God. This is how marketing and commercialism gain entry into the Holy Christian Church, The Communion of Saints.

Schwan's Propositions on Unevangelical Practice - 1862