Let me repeat myself. Doctrine and standards ARE NOT the same!
Let me explain.
Doctrine definition : a belief or set of beliefs held and taught by a Church, political party, or other group.
Standards definition: a level of quality or attainment.
Doctrine is what we believe (What the bible teaches) in regards to salvation.
Standards are a model by which we live our lives.
Although they go hand in hand (in my opinion) they are not the same!
I say all this because honestly its disheartening to see people bashing the UPC like we are a bunch of crazies that think if you don't wear a skirt all the time you're going to hell. That is a bunch of nonsense, we do not think pants will send you to hell and if anyone tells you differently do not listen to them.
(Although I think everything you do is either leading you closer to God or further from Him. So why would you not want to do more for him rather then less?)
What we do believe is that once you are saved your outward appearance should reflect the inward.
We do believe that we have power with the angels because of our uncut hair.
And we do believe that in living in obedience to your pastor and to the word of God and sacrificing such a small thing to God we are blessed and highly favored. 1 Samuel 15:22
We are set apart as the scripture asks us to and without speaking a word our actions and the way we dress speaks volumes.
Can it be done in vain? Yes, because humans aren't perfect. I know some people often think we are a bunch of judgmental prudes and of course you have your handful that seem that way, but most of us just love Jesus and are doing what we believe is right and we want to bring along as many folks as possible.
Anyways what I really want to do is focus on the difference between doctrine and standards.
Doctrine ( once again to remind folks, is what we believe IS a heaven matter)
Standards ( a measure by which we hold ourselves to be holy and separate from the world)
Doctrine says, "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." Acts 2:38-39
Standards says, "But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy." 1 Peter 1:15-17
Doctrine says, "One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." Ephesians 4:5-6
Standards says, "In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 1 Timothy 2: 9-10
Doctrine says, "Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again." John 3:5-7
Standards says, "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you" 2 Corinthians 6:17
Doctrine says, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:" Deuteronomy 6:5
Standards says, "But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven. For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered..... For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels....Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.
Doctrine says, "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." Acts 4:12
I literally could go on and on, but I think my point has been made.
Standards do not save you, but they help keep your salvation. I was told it this way years ago...
Your Holy Ghost, which is what saves you, is locked in a box (your heart) that is locked in your house (holy living) and around your house is fence (standards). Some may feel it isn't necessary, but it helps guard your heart and it shows the world that there is something valuable on the inside. It is a reflection of the inside.
Ultimately we want you to come regardless. That means come as you are. No body will make you do anything, but you will see many who do follow these "rules". Specifically those in leadership. (because leaders, regardless of where you are; church, school, work, are held to a higher standard, right?) However it is not because we think we are better, and its definitely not because we are perfect, but because we our guarding our salvation and because we know that Jesus is more than worth such a small sacrifice. (and many other reasons that I will gladly answer and talk about if you want to know more, but that is for another time).
I know not everyone will agree with this and I feel like this is such a deeper subject than this measly little blog can justly explain, but hopefully it clarifies some things. I also know not every church follows this practice of loving first and salvation being the #1 priority, but I think you will find most do.
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