"If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him."
Wow, these are interesting words from the tender and sensitive "apostle of love," (John). Don't sweet people listen to anyone? Aren't they open to everyone's take on God? Actually, no. Real love says, "Hey, buddy, you're coming to my house with a false gospel of works. I serve the God of heaven, who gave His Son for my sins. I don't need, nor will l tolerate your blasphemy."
Does this mean we don't try to reach these people? No, it does not mean that. Here is the rule to go by: inform all works-righteousness people that *you*, not they, will do the talking. If they want to listen, fine; if not, "adieu."
[Puritan quote of the day: "A great part of the pleasure and delight of the Christian life is made out of the observations of Providence." --John Flavel, in "The Mystery of Providence"]
