The precedents that Jesus and the Apostles set are what we should strive to achieve today!

A Christian should always strive to follow the precedents set forth in the Bible. Jesus and the early Christians set the bar very high for us to follow after. The examples have been made, the Bible is complete. Some of Jesus' first words to his disciples were, "Come follow me". These words are still ringing out today.

The Apostles taught new converts to follow them as they followed Christ. The precedents that Jesus and the Apostles set are what we should strive to achieve today. Beware of new Biblically unfounded precedents. Jesus' true church is, "built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone" (Ephesians 2:20). Seek to build upon that foundation which has already been laid.

We are not looking for a new doctrine, we are striving to attain to those high marks set forth in the scriptures! Some may feel that not looking for new precedents is underachievement and pessimism, but I contend. How can you expect to out perform or rise above what Jesus has already done? "The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master" (Luke 6:40).

Men can set their own religious and doctrinal precedents and say they are sufficient. However, those marks will always be far below those in the Bible. Be content without miracles and the supernatural in church if you want to, but we will not! Charismatic displays will never replace the power of the Holy Ghost. God's grace rains upon those that sincerely seek to follow after him, saying, "Not my will, but thy will be done".

B.H.