Patrick,

Just a note before I hit the sack (I'm preaching in the morning, and want a good sleep).

In my view, of paramount importance is your demeanor, or how you conduct yourself. When you hear foolish and unlearned talk of doctrine, you might ask (if appropriate at that time), "Are you interested in hearing a responsible opposing view?" A winsome attitude, and simple, clear statements, are attractive. You may even want to be a little more "laid-back" and judicious in picking your "teaching moments", seeing you will be in contact with these folks for a good while.

For over two years my wife and I attended an Arminian church here in my city, as we wanted to worship and fellowship with God's people, there being no Reformed church here, and we did not want to stay home and listen to tapes. After a while I was asked by the pastor to teach the adult Sunday school. I was able to minister God's word and Spirit to these people (and to the pastor) -- for almost three years. I had told the pastor upon first attending that church, "I need to fly my true colors so you know who I am and what I believe, and I also want to assure you I will not undermine your authority or doctrine in the church." He appreciated that. The only time I crossed that line was when some attending that church also attended a separate Bible study I was conducting (for Iranian believers), but I told the pastor of it. I respected and loved the man.

There is a reservoir of spiritual wealth you have within you because of the knowledge -- both mind-wise and heart-wise -- the doctrines of grace have enriched you with. Your knowledge of God and His marvelous providences for His children make you able to encourage and help others in their walks with Him. Arminianism hurts the soul deeply, and those who cleave to it are all too aware of the failure of the self-effort approach to obtaining God's favor. When others perceive that in you there is a quiet stream of living water from the throne of grace, they will want to drink of it.

If you conduct yourself prudently and winsomely the Lord may be pleased to use you to feed His sheep.

I will be praying for you, Patrick.

Steve

__________________
Steve Rafalsky
Elder, International Evangelical Church (Reformed)
Limassol, Cyprus

"I am set for the defense of the gospel" (Philippians 1:17)

"Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious
power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness..." (Colossians 1:11)