Comment by Rosemary Gould on 5th mo. 13, 2010 at 3:35pm

Is it possible to have accountability within our meetings without living, to a greater degree than is normal in developed countries, in intentional community? Orthodox Jews are required to live within walking distance of their synagogue. This has all kinds of consequences for the degree of uniformity (accountability) among them, both positive and negative, from all accounts. I bring that up because he contrasts Christians with those who live according to the "Law." Are there meetings which have mutual accountability? I don't feel ours does. But there are many Friends who "let their lives speak."

Comment by Alice M Yaxley on 5th mo. 14, 2010 at 9:58am

Good point Rosemary! I have a Kenyan friend and it is normal for her church to meet in the morning, for lunch, in the evening, people are there any time of day whenever not working to eat and pray together. Very different to how it works in the UK.

Comment by Stuart Masters on 5th mo. 14, 2010 at 11:27am

The key issue for me is that we are called to be a people of God and not a loose alliance of individuals. In this sense practical accountability in terms of mutual support and loving admonishment is essential. I would quibble with BibleMonster's assertion that Paul encouraged Christians to reject Torah (although this is certainly how many have interpreted Paul). What I see in Paul and in the way he has influenced Quakers, is the Torah of the heart, including an inward and spiritual circumcision. In the new Covenant of Light, Christ has fulfilled the prophesy of Jeremiah 31:31-34 by bringing God's law and making it available in our inward parts. Shalom, Stuart.

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