I don't do "helicopter theology" or "sound-bite exegesis", which is why I wrote a whole book of my studies on the matter of the Christian community and its relationships and structure: [link to books.fether.net]

Additional commentary here: [link to bible.fether.net]

And a quick reference here: [link to www.fether.net]

Every one of the claims, assertions, arguments, and objections raised in this thread are addressed in those documents. To try and deal with them in a message board is futile, as anyone can see.

But the most pressing issue is the hateful judgmentalism displayed here on the part of those who would presume themselves the judge, jury, and executioners of God. If they think we are lost, where is the love and compassion? If they think we are saved, where is the brotherly kindness? If they think we are heretics, who gave them authority over us to declare us such?

Who would want to be like them?

No wonder the unbelievers mock us! Look at how many lust for control and power over others, who think they alone have the truth and power of God to execute those who disagree with them. Look at how they foam at the mouth when anyone dares to say that God does not hold one half the human race beneath the other. Look at how they condemn and show no desire to reach out but only down.

By their fruit you will know them.