Thread by @rhyneputman

For the record, I can disagree with the approach taken by John MacArthur to church meetings and simultaneously (1) appreciate his ministry and (2) respect his right to hold in-person services without fear of government reprisal. /1

Dr. MacArthur has done many great things for the kingdom I will gladly acknowledge. I have been to his church before and am grateful for the students I have known out of Master's Seminary. /2

But I still don't think having a full, unmasked sanctuary is wise for multiple reasons. That is my conviction. Along the same lines, I don't think government has the place to tell the people of God what to do. /3

Until recently, I pastored a church in the New Orleans area through COVID, through online only and limited, masked in-person services. Eight of my church members were diagnosed, and two died. I have actually preached a legally limited outside funeral for a victim of COVID. /4

In a few weeks, I will preach in a church where a young pastor died from COVID-related symptoms. Concern for safety during a pandemic does not diminish my love for the authority of Scripture, the gospel, and the people of God. /5

The "discernment" blogger who called me "disgusting" and "hateful" in his click-bait article because of an eight-word tweet I wrote in jest does not know me or care to know me. I'm but a pawn in an ongoing crusade to undermine the institutions of the convention. /6

This culture of click-bait-driven sensationalism is part of the reason I wrote my recent book on theological disagreement. Evangelicals have to be better. We have the gospel. We have an urgent commission. /7

And do the kingdom no favors by back-biting over things that have nothing to do with doctrine or biblical truth.

Jesus is Lord, and the Lord finds it detestable when "one who stirs up trouble among brothers" (Prov. 6:19). /8

Receiving income from a CP-funded institution does not mean I don't have opinions or that I am not free to share them, especially when they align with the common confession and mission statement we share. /9

The same is true of any pastor paid by a local church. This kind of bullying doesn't work.

Also, despite my hatred of Alabama football, I still love Alabama football fans in Jesus. Grace and peace. /END