Hi Chris

I have a few questions for you. Firstly, what is essential to be saved regarding doctrines? Secondly, was Dr Thomas inspired by God or do you think that God provided favourable circumstances for Dr Thomas, so that he could find The Truth? Finally, do you think that female members of a Christadelphian congregation must wear hats, if so, what is your view of female members who decide not to, or wish not to, wear hats—is that a matter of their personal consciences.

Regards,

MT

Reply:-

Dear MT,

You ask what I “think” regarding a number of issues.However, as my opinion is largely irrelevant, (as are all the opinions of men), I prefer to instead address your questions with Bible answers.

what is essential to be saved?

In our dispensation, “the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the Name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 8:12)

Secondly, was Dr Thomas inspired by God or do you think that God provided favourable circumstances for Dr Thomas,he could find The Truth?

This is a “straw man” as no-one actually believes Bro Thomas to be inspired. It is common for those who denigrate his work, and that of Bro Robert Roberts to make this claim of those who give respect to their labours in the word and the doctrine.That such a charge has to be fabricated to find occasion against us is evidence of the strength of our position, and the weakness of the denigrator.

It is testified that Yahweh will “raise up” certain men to fulfil his purpose, Pharaoh being an example (Rom. 9:17). When one considers the scope and breadth of the work that Bro Thomas set his hand to, it is clear that he was a man with a purpose: i.e. the Deity had a purpose, and chose this man through whom it should be fulfilled.However, this clearly does not imply Divine endorsement of every single thing he did, said and wrote, as would be the case of Inspiration.Obviously.

do you think thatmembers of a Christadelphian congregation must wear hats,

“every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head …” (1 Cor. 11:5).

what is your view of female members who decideto, or wish not to, wear hats - is that a matter of their personal conscience?

If an ecclesia of Christ’s brethren seek to uphold the teaching of his Apostles, they will ensure that all are adequately instructed in Divine things, to understand the reason for head-coverings.If a sister/sisters wantonly disrespects both the ecclesia’s decision, and the Apostolic injunction, the ecclesia must come to a conclusion with respect to that situation, (i.e. “judge in themselves”) bearing in mind all relevant factors.You ask what I “think,” but Scripturally, it is something the ecclesia must decide on, not one individual.

Chris Maddocks