Calvinism W/out Love: DEAD.

Below are the words of John Newton - the author of that beloved hymn Amazing Grace.  I have learned recently that he, though a strong Calvinist, had a heart more humble than most.  He was very quick to love, encourage, rebuke, and comfort - a pastor indeed!  I have found that his spirit is uncommon among the reformed church. 

What am I talking about?  Well I am simply speaking from my own experience.  It may or may not be this way elsewhere.  But, I have found that those who despise the Reformed Doctrine do so, not necessarily b/c of the doctrine but b/c of what it seemingly produces in those who hold to it.  What tragedy!  Though I hate to say so - their argument is valid.  Edwards himself recommended a cave for new reformers.  I recommend duct tape.  How long?  As long as it takes for us to feel what we believe. Consider Newton:

And I am afraid there are Calvinists, who, while they account it a proof of their humility, that they are willing in words to debase the creature and to give all the glory of salvation to the Lord, yet know not what manner of spirit they are of. Whatever it be that makes us trust in ourselves that we are comparatively wise or good, so as to treat those with contempt who do not subscribe to our doctrines, or follow our party, is a proof and fruit of a self-righteous spirit. Self-righteousness can feed upon doctrines as well as upon works; and a man may have the heart of a Pharisee, while his head is stored with orthodox notions of the unworthiness of the creature, and the riches of free grace.

I am afraid that we, who hold to this faith, have done that very thing we oppose.  We have created a separate sect of officials who are higher than the layman - we have made ourselves a new monastery.  Well, I have stated the problem, but what about the solution?

Again, I can only tell you what I have experienced.  I have pushed many away.  I am broken.  The greatest balm to this bleeding heart has been the community of the Body of Christ.  What has made me feel what I believe?  The poor.  The needy - the orphans and widows.  What has made me feel my depravity?  Loving (or at least begging to) the unlovable.  Dragging my enemies into my prayer closet.  Taking my eyes off of the pages and into the eyes of those who so desperately need Christ - those just like me.