Acceptance vs Approval

I think there is a big dilemma in the church today. The debate on what is the difference between acceptance and approval.

The church is supposed to be a place of acceptance. A place where anyone can come from any background to a place that God has set apart to give glory to him. Of course any believer would say "I do agree with that."

The problem lies in when we have to put this in practice. Too many believers associate acceptance with approval. As a church we accept everyone from whatever background, to our church to be a part of it. Not just a fringe part of our church, but an active part of it.

I believe that one of the biggest passions of people, is the desire to belong. The church is a fantastic place to belong. I think, come, even if you dont believe what I believe or even teach, but belong.

Belonging happens most often before you believe.

As a church we need to accept everyone in love as they enter the door. As a church we need to love as Jesus loved. As a church we need to reach out to those around us. As a church we need to tear down our stereotypes of what "church" is. If we really study the New Testament church through a Hebrew mindset, we would see the vast difference between the western church and NT church we read about in the Bible.

We can accept people right were they are, without 100% approving of things they do. And that is perfectly OK. Because as the Holy Spirit begins to deal with them as they grow in a relationship with Christ.

I am glad I am not the Holy Spirit. Sometimes we try to take on his job though.