Did Gene paint with too broad of a brush?

One of Gene’s recent posts, Escorted through the gates of hell (April 10th), was taken exception with by a very good friend, a friend who is one of the ever-dwindling faithful pastors and shepherds of God’s flock.  He and I see eye-to-eye on well over 95% of biblical understandings which is a pretty good percentage these days.  From him I have gained much insight into Scripture.  His complaint was that I presented the subject in that post in such a way (and tone) that if any faithful pastor understood that point of Scripture different than Gene Pool, and taught their flock otherwise, then Gene’s assertion appeared to be they were leading their flock to hell.

Hmmm.  Perhaps I did paint with too broad of a brush.  It was not the intent.  The post was aimed at people who put human leaders before the God of Glory as revealed in His Word—to hopefully send people to Scripture to decide for themselves if what Gene said was true.  And if the words or tone of the post offended faithful pastors, and especially my friend, then I hope they accept the apology I offer.  For sure, my friend’s teachings overall are not leading his flock to hell, even though he understands Scripture to mean that one can divorce and remarry if their spouse stumbles in faithfulness.  So be it.  He and I will have to disagree on that point.  But in his case, I am convinced that he teaches what he believes God lays on his heart and does not run ahead of those living in sin in order to have a flock to lead.  Who knows, he very well be right on his matter though personally I don’t think so.  My understanding on the subject is 99.999% solidified.  There is way too much Scripture supporting my (unpopular) position—explicit teaching by both our Lord as well as Paul.  But that is where my friend and I wholesomely differ as brothers in our Lord Jesus Christ.  He sees it different.  And even if my friend it wrong on his interpretation, I don’t think that by itself is a heaven or hell matter for his flock.  They may deeply offend God, but many things we Christians do offend God.  Praise His Holy Name that once we realize our waywardness, become truly broken over our sin and repent, our God forgives us.  That sin then has been paid for by the work of our Lord Jesus at Calvary.  Hallelujah! 

So I say again, perhaps I painted too broad in that post.  If so, then I apologize to all faithful pastors who took exception as well as to my friend.

Gene Pool