Our church recently voted to disaffiliate with the United Methodist Church, and then to affiliate with the Global Methodist Church. While not one to typically favor division, this is the best course of action for our church. You see, the United Methodist Church was becoming apathetic with its doctrine, even going so far as to say Jesus was "a" way to salvation. Not "the" way.
This reminds me of the 7th letter to the church in Laodicea in Revelation, which warns against apathy.
“To the angel of the church in Laodicea write the following: “This is the solemn pronouncement of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the originator of God’s creation: ‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either cold or hot! So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of my mouth! Because you say, “I am rich and have acquired great wealth, and need nothing,” but do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked, take my advice and buy gold from me refined by fire so you can become rich! Buy from me white clothing so you can be clothed and your shameful nakedness will not be exposed, and buy eye salve to put on your eyes so you can see! All those I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent! Listen! I am standing at the door and knocking! If anyone hears my voice and opens the door I will come into his home and share a meal with him, and he with me. I will grant the one who conquers permission to sit with me on my throne, just as I too conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne. The one who has an ear had better hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’”
Revelation 3:14-22 NET
God doesn't want apethetic churches, nor does he want his people to be apethetic. Lukewarm living is not a good option. For me personally, I can't pretend it doesn't matter when some I love have lost their faith in Christ. What can I do? Not sure, but I want everyone to know the love and grace of Christ. Everyone.
God loves us all.
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