Many churches have sprung up in Singapore in recent years. Some of these churches have
beliefs which differ from that of our church. Our church belongs to the Reformed tradition
which regards Scripture as the ultimate authority of all things pertaining to our faith.
We do not want to be drawn into the current so called “charismatic” controversy
which has affected several churches and groups causing some of them to split up. We merely
wish to state the Session’s position so that our members will not be misled or
confused on this issue.
- The Session believes that the Holy Spirit indwells in a person from the moment he or she
accepts our Lord Jesus as his personal Savior and Lord.
- The Bible does not teach that it is necessary to have a “second” baptism to
receive the Holy Spirit into our lives.
- The speaking of tongues is not necessarily a confirmation of the presence of the Holy
Spirit in a person’s life. Many pagan religions also practice the speaking in tongues.
There need be no outward manifestation of the Spirit’s indwelling apart from a
transformed life.
- The Bible teaches us that it is incorrect to use tongues in public worship, i.e. even when
two or three are gathered unless a truly valid interpretation can be provided. Some Christians
encourage and even teach others how to speak in tongues. We believe that this goes against
Scriptural teaching.
- God can and does heal miraculously but this is the exception rather than the usual. It is
wrong to presume that God will work miracles at our bidding. To do so will be to reduce His
Lordship. God answers our prayers on the basis of His sovereignty, wisdom, mercy and grace.
- The Bible teaches us to be cautious about our “religious” experiences and
feelings especially if they contradict God’s revealed will.
We urge those who do not hold the above views not to influence other church members
with their personal views as to do so would create confusion and division within our
church and would be an infringement of the pledge they undertook when they first became
members. We believe that the Holy Spirit unites Christians and anything that causes
division in our church cannot be of Him. |
