Caught in between

On one hand we are faced with legalism and authoritarianism. On the other we have the over-emphasis of experience-based religion mixed with postmodernism.

Orthodoxy vs. Mysticism

However, I do not like the term 'middle of the road'. If the middle is not what we aspire to, then what on earth do we aspire to?

Infiltration or Separation?
In and not of, or come out from among?
Salt, preserving and light illuminating?

Evangelicalism is steeped in mission work. This is the test of a 'true fellowship'. Somewhere on the other end of the spectrum is the Brethren position which teeters between being separate and reaching out to those in need.

Without a doubt, the dying world and the worldly church needs the influence of true Christians, but where does one say enough is enough: "Lest I get my garments soiled, I must stay myself from these swine. "

I suppose many illustrations could be made concerning circumstantial situations that either reaching out or not reaching out would seem to be the laissez faire. That reasoning in and of itself is wavering and postmodern. So which is it?

• Infiltration for the sake of reformation and change, or
• Separation to maintain purity and control.

Infiltration and the resultant conversion of the out-and-out worldly non-Christian-upbrought person adds all kinds of mixed up viewpoints and perspectives to the church. However, the introspection and self-concern of the Separatist and his offspring upbring ends in excessive control and thought domination. Legalism follows quickly and chokes any fresh thinking that may sprout.

How can we meld these two seemingly opposing views into a pragmatic, faith-building, community-preserving, group of believers? Believers that are filled and motivated by His Spirit to keep themselves unspotted from the world and and the same time be His hands to help the adulterous woman go and sin no more.