New Testament Christianity 101Rock of Offence CommentaryRegardless of your spiritual orientation, the church continues to be a source of guidance, comfort and stability in a troubled world to countless millions of people. Christians rely on it to be a "pillar of strength" that supports the family and the values they hold dear. The church is usually the "first contact" young people have with the spiritual world. I still have fond memories of my experiences in a church youth group located in Northwest Washington, D.C. It's a place where young people can gather, worship God, and develop relationships outside the dangerous influences in the world. Under the right leadership the church can be a source of great blessing and spiritual enrichment. Yet, as I look out on the modern church I see many things that concern me. Yes, there are some godly pastors and teachers who tirelessly seek and preach the truth in order to help people find God's will and purpose for their life. But, desiring the truth and actually possessing it are two totally different things. There's lots of false teachers with good intentions, a sincere heart and a love for people. Today truth is almost an exception to the overwhelming tidal wave of religious misinformation hitting our culture. The roots of misinformation go back hundreds of years and are based on the teaching of religious leaders and historical denominational doctrine. The problem with wrong religious doctrine is that after a hundred years or so it is accepted, without question, on equal ground with God's Word. Once this occurs, the wrong doctrine becomes the standard by which truth is judged. Inevitably, God sends someone to challenge the doctrine--much like Jesus challenged the religious establishment of his day. And, like Jesus, the person is subjected to untold slander and criticism--and sometimes the threat of death. Church history is replete with examples--and the blood of martyrs who died at the hands of religiously motivated people. The strongest of all human motivation is our belief in God--whether founded in truth or not. History shows that this belief, when twisted and distorted, can lead a person to murder thinking that they're doing a service for God. The recent terrorist attacks on America exposes this tendency in the religion of Islam. Yet, Islam is not the only place it's found. I understand people who passionately defend wrong beliefs--and I seek to tread lightly because the foundation of our identity is in our convictions and deeply held beliefs. Intellectual arguments don't always provide the persuasion necessary to produce changes with eternal fruit. It takes God's Holy Spirit, as helper and teacher, to bring real change. Over the last 27 years I've discovered some of the mysteries contained in the new covenant of Jesus Christ. Rediscovering the Gospel within the context of a "blood covenant" shook my spiritual foundation to its core. "Covenant" thinking is rare and unique in the modern church. Traditions I assumed to be "Biblical" were exposed as being falsely religious and man-centered. I'm not trying to diminish the importance of "church" in anyone's life. But, there's something that far outweighs our involvement in a church organization. You can live a religious and moral life. You can be "self-sacrificing" so that others can be blessed. You can read the Bible, believe in God, pray, sing in the choir, worship and go to church every day--and still miss heaven. This is the tragedy of the modern church--redefining truth that carries "eternal" importance. The number of victims will be astonishing. Occasionally, I hear people make statements like, "leave me alone--I'm happy being a _________." (Fill in the blank with Catholic, Baptist, Methodist, Episcopalian, Pentecostal, etc.) Well, we can leave you alone to be "happy" during your earthly journey. But, will you be happy as Jesus says to you, "I never knew you, depart from me?" This unintended consequence doesn't end in 70 or 80 years; its for all eternity. Rightly Dividing God's Word"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Tim 2:15 KJV)The Bible is divided into two main parts: The Old and the New Testament. The Old Testament has three subdivisions: Life before the law of Moses, life during the law of Moses and the transition into Christ's salvation--covered in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Much of what we know as the "Gospels" (placed by the translators into the New Testament Canon) actually took place under the authority of the Old Testament. The Gospels provide us with the transition from the Old Testament into the New Testament under God's grace. Each of the four Gospels...discuss issues valid under Old Testament law AND issues that are now only valid "in Christ". Radical changes occurred between these two covenants! In his New Testament writings, one of Saint Paul's main emphasis is that the Christian is no longer under the authority of Old Testament law. He taught that faith in Christ now replaces obedience to the Law of Moses as God's requirement for blessing and salvation.The Mosaic Law and faith in Christ represent two binding agreements known as a "blood covenant". The sacrifice of Jesus Christ established a new "blood covenant" that replaced the old covenant and its law (Read Hebrews 8:6-13). As a result, Old Testament (or old covenant) law is not legally binding upon the Christian. Yet, millions of professing Christians are tricked into living under its tenants. Recently, I listened to the audio Bible while driving to work. Suddenly, I heard Jesus say something that caused me to stop the tape and consider his words. I've listened to this section of Scripture numerous times, but I noticed something that had escaped my attention in the past. Jesus was teaching the people, as was his custom during the following encounter: "And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments." (Matt 19:16-17 KJV)Many religious people believe Jesus' statement to "keep the commandments" is the correct way to obtain eternal life. Why shouldn't it be? We have the clear words of the Lord himself telling us that keeping the commandments (in this case he was speaking of the Ten Commandments) is the doorway to eternal life. Yet, there is a problem. The old covenant and the Mosaic Law was still the authority in those days. Jesus hadn't gone to the cross--hadn't been resurrected--hadn't ascended into heaven. The authority of the new covenant (New Testament) was not established yet. What Jesus said to these people was correct for the time it was said. Yet, things dramatically changed after the cross. One thing that changed is the way eternal life is obtained.Saint Paul tells us the new covenant way to gain eternal life: "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified." (Gal 2:16 KJV)The "Ten Commandments" are part of "the law". Saint Paul taught that keeping the law (the commandments) is no longer a valid method for obtaining salvation after the cross. Failing to understand this simple truth has caused many to miss salvation. This is a tragedy.The Scripture from Matt. 19:16-17 is a perfect illustration. It seems right to comply with the words of Christ from this Scripture. Yet, in doing so you'll fail to obtain eternal life because the covenant (the legal authority for salvation) changed after Jesus went to the cross. Failing to "rightly divide" God's Word can bring spiritual disaster in eternity while having the illusion of looking "correct" and spiritual in the present. It's serious business. Well-meaning people who believe wrong doctrine can still look "Christian" even when they haven't met the Biblical requirements of faith through Christ alone. Paul's advice to Timothy (2 Tim. 2:15 quoted above) is to "rightly divide" God's Word. The phrase "rightly divide" means to "interpret correctly" and to discern the parts that apply. By failing to recognize these sub-divisions of God's Word...by discerning what is said and which covenant it is said under--major religious bondage and error result. Yet, the error can still look "Biblical". More amazing is that many religious folks will fiercely defend their right to remain in bondage! The False Church"How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High." (Isa 14:12-14 KJV)There are things we don't know about Satan. Yet, Isaiah reveals something important about his nature--Satan has an insatiable desire to be like God! Even with this revelation that is centuries old--I'm puzzled as to why so many church-goers are blind to one of his most cunning achievements. When Satan was banished from heaven (Luke 10:18, Rev. 12:7-10), he understood that being like God is impossible. Yet, he has other options. As a spiritual being, he can disguise himself as God and organize his own church to look similar to God's church. He steals God's Word and subtly changes things so that it accomplishes his goals, while still sounding similar to God's Word. Imagine Satan's delight when he realizes this clever way to get back at God. . .by manipulating (through religious ideologies and deception) a person's spiritual devotion to trick them into believing a lie. What better way to get revenge than to eternally destroy the object of God's love while discrediting God in the process! Some readers may be tempted to think I'm only referring to some popular cults within "Christian Orthodoxy". Yet, Satan's agenda is far more elaborate and detailed than this. Welcome to the world of organized religion.Recently, I listened as a nationally known Bible teacher taught on an unpopular topic. He addressed one of my deepest burdens about the modern church. His teaching focused on the contrast between the ministry of Jesus Christ and the doctrine of the Pharisees. He began by making a disturbing statement (I'll paraphrase because I can't quote his exact words); Most Christians fail to realize that Satan has built a counterfeit church that is based on the Word of God (The Bible). This type of church is designed to look and sound just like God's church, which is also based on the Bible. The Bible teacher revealed from the Scriptures that the Scribes and Pharisees of Jesus' day represented this false religious system. Jesus clearly identified the Pharisees and their religion as "Satanic" in nature when he said to them... "Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it." (John 8:44 KJV)It's also important to note that Jesus wasn't the only person in the Bible to take this position. John the Baptist said similar things. John preceded Jesus as "the voice of one crying in the wilderness". His ministry was to baptize Israel and prepare them for the coming Messiah. Listen to John's words as he addresses the religious leaders coming to him to be baptized..."But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?" (Matt 3:7 KJV)The Biblical symbol for Satan is a snake, serpent or viper. John didn't want his intentions misunderstood. He wanted to make a clear statement to all those who were listening. We can cite Scripture where Jesus also called these false religious leaders snakes, vipers and wolves in sheep clothing. Even Saint Paul made similar comments. Do you see some kind of pattern here? This was very strong language in those days and it didn't exactly set an atmosphere of unity. Why is this important? Jesus, John and the apostle Paul were committed to destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3:8). And, false unity established by the false church founded on faulty doctrine was a valid target. It's still valid today.To the casual observer, the confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees was confusing because both used the Word of God as their authority. Yet, Satan influenced one--and the other (Jesus) is sent directly from God. Many fail to realize that the false church uses the Bible as its authority and is still with us today...stronger and more influential than ever. Like tares among the wheat it's difficult to recognize (Matthew 13:24-43). Even the Apostle Paul warned about these deceptive counterfeits in a disturbing revelation... "For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works." (2 Cor. 11:13-15 KJV)Notice that the apostle Paul said Satan's ministers "are transformed as the ministers of righteousness". I don't believe that Paul's warning about these counterfeit ministers apply only to modern day cults and sects. I believe Paul is suggesting that cherished denominations, historical Christian institutions and local "Bible believing" church organizations are also compromised. I've had some direct encounters with the situation Paul is addressing. I'm convinced that the average professing Christian without the Holy Spirit's help has very little chance of spotting the counterfeit. Satan's ministers look just like God's ministers--and they know the Scriptures inside and out! They're trained in the latest disciplines of theology and persuasive speech. They blend in very well. For this reason Jesus used the skewed practices of the Scribes and Pharisees as the contrast for most of his teachings about the true nature of his Father. On some occasions it seemed as if Jesus deliberately lured the Pharisees into a fight! You can read another article on this topic entitled The Anti-Church by Jim Golden for more on this subject.The Beautiful Side Of EvilMost Christians may read this thinking that Jesus and the apostle Paul couldn't be talking about their church--after all, we teach the Bible in our church...we worship Jesus in our church...We preach salvation through Christ in our church...we have a man of God as our pastor...and so on. And, your situation could be different. Yet, it's that kind of environment where counterfeits hide. All those things can apply to a Godly minister of righteousness. Yet, Saint Paul said that Satan transforms his ministers into ministers of righteousness! This is a frightening prospect, but true. It's not for the faint of heart or the average church member who doesn't actively seek truth. One tactic of warfare (and we're in a spiritual war)--when you want to hide something, place it where no one thinks to look...in plain sight! The false church operates in the open. Yet, because of its promotion of God's Word and "look-alike" characteristics, few notice. And if some discerning soul notices and begins to sound a warning they are immediately branded as someone who causes division and threatens the holy grail of unity in the organization. We are told that the unity of the modern church is God's highest priority and we all need to die to our petty differences--we need to compromise and get along. Compromising truth has destroyed the effectiveness of the modern church. Someone is wrong. Yet, Jesus never compromised truth that carried eternal consequences...and he's our example. There are two aspects of the counterfeit church: The first aspect is that a whole church organization (or denomination) can be given over to this counterfeit Satanic agenda. Remember that Satan dresses up his counterfeit in good-looking costumes. The Scribes and Pharisees is the Biblical example of this religious system in Jesus' day. As we said before, seminaries today are turning out graduates--ministers and pastors--who deny the divine authority of Scripture. More and more, you hear various church members comment that their pastor warned them not to take the Bible literally. Some leaders argue that they're saved--but they didn't need Jesus to save them. Today, we see the leadership of whole denominations say that it's OK to be gay and in the ministry--that taking the life of an innocent baby through abortion is a matter of personal choice...and not anyone's business. What's going on here? Through persuasive speech the false church is using the Bible (twisting its meaning) to destroy valid Biblical foundations! So far it has done a marvelous job. There are many other Scriptural contradictions we could list. The second aspect is far more dangerous. In this situation tenants of the counterfeit church are "mixed in" to an authentic church in very subtle ways. It's so subtle that even a good church organization may be unaware of the contamination. Salvation is preached, people get born again and the Bible is taught. Yet, a covert influence exists that actually opposes God's will and Christ's teaching. Saint Paul, once again, addressed this problem in another one of his thought-provoking statements. When I read the New Testament I'm aware that Paul carried this same burden about spiritual counterfeits and the damage they cause. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)" (Phil. 3:15-19 KJV)Again, Paul suggests that some preachers of the Gospel can actually be enemies of the cross of Christ without knowing it. While proclaiming salvation through Christ on one hand--they oppose his teachings and principles on the other by mixing in a humanistic and religious ideology. Before you say this is impossible--I've actually experienced these spiritual contradictions and it's more common than you think. Is it frustrating? Yes. Does it mislead people? Absolutely. A church organization and its leadership may be honestly walking in all the truth of God's Word that it knows. Yet, elements of the counterfeit church subtly exist within the ministry. Given enough time it eventually spreads like cancer to the congregation. The effect on the congregation's eternal destiny is varied and unpredictable. I am aware that this test could be excessively applied to any church organization depending on how specific you are. I realize that no church organization is perfect. Yet, we're focusing on issues that carry eternal consequences. These are issues that will short-circuit your growth, distort God's character and put you in bondage even if you're a Christian and heaven bound. Multitudes are caught in its trap.My goal for this section is to cover several common characteristics and practices of the false church. Don't be surprised if you find some of them lurking in your life. A Substitute JesusThe story is fictional. Yet, a similar plot is taking place--for real--in the world of religion. The best way to neutralize God's plan is to replace the real Jesus with one who looks the same--has the same name--yet, is an imposter with a different agenda. Such a plot, if successful can do untold spiritual damage. Saint Paul calls this imposter, "another Jesus" and his message, "a different gospel". Most professing Christians cannot discern the difference because the imposter has an “illusion” of support from the Bible. And, he tends to be very popular with church-going people. This substitute Jesus has many forms and variations. On the mild side, the imposter may only warp a person's conception of God and His intentions toward us--while still providing the minimum requirements to gain salvation. On a more destructive side, he rejects Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation and convinces his followers that there are many paths to eternal life--while leading them to eternal destruction. The early apostles called this imposter, "The anti-Christ". Misinformed Christians believe this anti-Christ is someone who appears "opposite" to the real Christ. The false church presents a false Jesus. . .a substitute. Yet, they speak about him as if he is the real Jesus. Want to know the secret to their success? They sincerely believe he is the real Jesus. You'll never convince them otherwise. Want to learn more about this disastrous spiritual trap? Read our articles on Understanding The Spirit Of Anti-Christ and Jesus Is Lord!. I will also repeat an article suggested earlier, The Anti-Church by Jim Golden. I hope to have more on this important topic in the future. Don't be fooled by the false Jesus and miss the real one! Legalism--The Religion Of The False ChurchA false religious system that teaches adherence to Old Testament commandments and principles that are fulfilled (no longer binding) through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This religious system, as modeled by the Scribes and Pharisees of Jesus day, can also be founded on doctrine (teachings) crafted by spiritual leaders for the "betterment" of God's people. Legalism occurs through a system of rules or laws where obedience is rewarded with the promise of eternal life...or God's acceptance, blessing and favor. Today, it is commonly practiced as a subtle "mixture" of Old Testament law and New Testament grace.A common form of legalism is "fence-building". It's practiced (by spiritual leadership) with the best of intentions. The goal is nothing less than the full spiritual maturity of the believer. They want the Christian to be obedient to the Bible and pleasing to God. The intentions are noble. Yet, serious spiritual bondage results from its practice. Fence building can be described like this:Sin is the worse thing a Christian can get caught in. To help the Christian stay out of sin, a system of rules (usually based on Scripture out of context) are created. By keeping the rules and certain "codes of conduct" you will stay safely away from sin and therefore gain God's pleasure and acceptance.Some church leaders go further by mandating obedience to their rules by saying, "disobeying our instruction is disobeying God". Others suggest the same thing, but allow the desire to "conform to group standards" and other forms of peer pressure to do the work. Fence building, to a greater or lesser degree is practiced by almost every church organization. The rule that Christians should attend church every Sunday is to prevent "backsliding", or a falling away from the faith--a pure and noble intention. Yet, it can warp our understanding of God.Modern day "fence-building" may have different rules, but the practice is the same as the one used by the Pharisees and the religious establishment of Jesus' day. Our Lord condemned the practice in the strongest of terms (Matt. 15:1-9) because it placed believers under a form of bondage and undermined the authority of God's Word. It distorted the character of His Father and hindered real spiritual maturity. Jesus engaged in a disruptive practice for the religious establishment of his time--he deliberately broke their fences! Fence building is a characteristic of the false church. Yet, the average church member who fails to discern truth never sees the difference. For more information about legalism and you can read the article, Characteristics of the Counterfeit Gospel for more insight. Let's discover some of the more common characteristics of the false church. A Distorted Concept Of ChurchEver notice that Christians get upset about missing church services on Sunday? It's an almost mandatory practice with some people. Some readers might think, "come on--what could be wrong with going to church?" Well, for one reason the concept of "going to church" (as to a building or specified location) is not New Testament. I've discovered a disturbing truth. Many Christians do not possess a correct understanding of the Church as it's presented under the New Testament. If a Christian's understanding of the Church is wrong then many other areas of their spiritual foundation will be distorted. The famous Bible story about the woman at the well and a thought-provoking statement by Jesus Christ gives us a glimpse into an important Gospel truth."The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth." (John 4:19-24 KJV)Under the Old Testament, the temple (or tabernacle) in Jerusalem was the place to offer worship. People would come from everywhere to worship at a specific designated place. This is the source of the woman's words spoken to Jesus, "ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship". Jerusalem was the established location for the temple. In Old Testament days God lived in the temple. During the early days when the tabernacle was in the wilderness God dwelled in the "Holy of Holies", a place forbidden to man except for the high priest. The Jewish temple was commonly referred to as God's house--or God's Sanctuary. In addition to this, God's Holy Spirit would come upon certain individuals--or would dwell "with" them. God's authority, in Old Testament days, would be administered through an anointed leader who was chosen to rule Israel. The leadership of Moses, Joshua, King Saul and King David are clear examples.All of that changed after the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. Yet, many professing Christians structure their life so as to continue the old tradition. A church building is incorrectly referred to as "the house of God". And most feel compelled to travel to this building each week as an expression of their spiritual commitment. This is a very deep-seated personal conviction--even if it's founded on falsehood! For many, the beautiful sanctuary, the stain-glass windows, the inspirational choir, the impressive alter and the pulpit are part of the "worship" experience. And, there's a general misconception that God only respects fellowship, meetings and programs connected with a church building or an "official" church organization. When you discover the full scope of what Jesus accomplished at the cross you'll recognize much of this thinking has dangerous legalistic roots. It's dangerous because it redirects our thinking away from what God now calls "the Church" onto an Old Testament model for worship that is no longer valid. Jesus said (quoted above) in John chapter 4, "But the hour cometh and now is..." signifying that a major change in the way Godly worship is expressed is about to break on the stage of human history. Well, it's here...and it's now! Yet, many professing Christians refuse to recognize the change. As a personal comment--I happen to enjoy stain-glass windows and a beautiful sanctuary! You might be wondering at this point about the New Testament model. For starters, God no longer dwells in buildings made with human hands. Church buildings are not the "house of God" because he doesn't live there! The writings of Saint Paul give us the answer--and it's impact is nothing short of revolutionary. "What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." (1 Cor. 6:19-20 KJV)"Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest? Hath not my hand made all these things?" (Acts 7:48-50 KJV)"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" (I Corinthians 3:16 KJV)"But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you." (Romans 8:9-11 KJV)The body of the Christian is now the New Testament temple...and God (in the person of the Holy Spirit) lives in that temple. This is not symbolism, but reality. It means that we no longer "go to church" (as in a designated place or location). We are the church...and the temple is wherever we are! Some people may ask me, "Did you go to church last Sunday?" How could I not go to church? The temple is wherever I am--and where the temple is, God is. As a Christian, you carry God with you wherever you go! Few Christians live in the light of this truth. It's confusing if you're not used to thinking about church in New Testament terms. The truth of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit establishes the foundation for a revolutionary statement by Jesus..."For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. (Matt 18:20 KJV)This is Jesus' idea of "church". The Lord himself shows up to validate the fellowship of two or three believers who are gathered in his name. Contrary to popular teaching...no other "official" authority is needed. It's not a complicated organizational structure. Nor is it a church building with all the religious glamour--just simple fellowship empowered by the Lord himself. This was the foundation of the early church that met and broke bread from house to house. The indwelling Holy Spirit filling the temple (the body) was the source of their power. A gathering of two or three Christians in Jesus name is just as much a gathering of the church as two or three thousand in a traditional sense.The modern church persuades Christians to attend the "official" meetings of the organization by suggesting that they sponsor the only fellowship God respects. Yet, this perspective is misleading when compared to the model Jesus used. The following Scripture is commonly quoted as the undisputed authority to emphasize their point... "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." (Heb 10:24-25 KJV)Some leaders with good intentions use this Scripture to increase attendance at their services. I've seen it wrongly used as a tool to advance the agenda of a church organization and support certain "programs". Manipulating people with the Bible (using a person's devotion to God against them) is never right--regardless of the reason. The end does not justify the means. In some cases, the way to measure the success of a ministry is by its attendance. And, large crowds usually draw an even larger crowd. Yet, you can satisfy the fellowship requirement of Hebrews 10:24-25 without attending a church organization or a church building. The first century Christian church fellowshipped primarily in the home (house to house). And, the gathering of two or three that Jesus spoke about is also valid fellowship. You'll probably never hear this taught in a religious service!Don't misunderstand my position. I'm not against large Christian gatherings and there are a lot of good reasons to regularly attend. This is especially true if the leader has God's calling to minister in specific spiritual gifts. A great benefit is realized when the Holy Spirit begins to move in situations such as this--and you can't always get it in a small group. All Christians should commit themselves to such a place in order to get a spiritual foundation laid in their life and to receive instruction from God's Word. Yet, we should all examine our motives concerning why we "go to church"--especially if you believe it's God's mandatory requirement. Remember that God's people are to be led by the Holy Spirit who lives in them (Romans 8:14). The Lord wants you free enough to reorder your schedule if he needs you somewhere else other than a church service. God wants you obedient to his voice--not to a tradition or religious practice. It's one more subtle difference between the false church and the true one. Another characteristic of "church" that radically changed is the excercise of spiritual authority. As we said earlier, God's authority under the Old Testament came through a specially selected human vessel. This topic is covered in the article, Identifying Illegitimate Authority. You can read it for more information. Also, for a more excellent explanation about the nature of Christ's Church please read Let The Church Be The Church by Frank Stigall. Frank's message can change your life! Keeping The SabbathThis controversial subject goes hand-in-hand with the Biblical view of the New Testament church. Many Christians attend religious services on a specific day of the week (usually Sunday) in order to observe "the Sabbath". Yet, attending a church organization on Sunday does not meet the requirements of Sabbath law. The Old Testament Sabbath changed under the new covenant of Jesus Christ. It's new meaning isn't about observing a holy day. Originally, the Sabbath was one weekday set aside for rest. Under the Mosaic Law it was a mandatory requirement. God originally created it as a day of rest for man--something good. The early church chose the first day of the week (Sunday) as a day of fellowship and worship--but this practice is not to be confused with "keeping the Sabbath". They are different! The early church chose Sunday for their gatherings because Jesus rose from the dead on the first day of the week. An honest Bible study reveals that the Sabbath is on a Saturday. "Sunday" Christian gatherings were a non-binding tradition, which started in the first century. It was never practiced as a mandatory law. Yet, like so many other things...a new law was made out of it. The compulsion connected with "keeping the Sabbath" (though misguided) still tops the list as a great attendance builder. Why spoil a good method when the end justifies the means. And, Sabbath-keeping makes a great fence! During his earthly ministry Jesus broke Sabbath law at certain times. On one such occasion, while passing through a cornfield on the Sabbath, the disciples plucked some of the corn and were condemned for it. According to tradition this effectively broke the law. But, Jesus defended their actions! When confronting the Scribes and Pharisees for their unyielding demand that Sabbath law be obeyed, Jesus said this..."And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath." (Mark 2:27-28 KJV)In his writings about legalism in the Galatian church, Saint Paul gives us a warning on this subject."But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain." (Gal 4:9-11 KJV)Confronting legalism was a constant task for the early church leaders. In Acts 15:1-31 some Pharisees (who had believed on Christ) insisted that in addition to faith all believers are required to be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses. This confrontation occurred in the first century. Yet, the same problem exists in more subtle forms in the modern church. The account of Acts 15 gives us the most common characteristic of legalism: It's a mixture of faith in Christ (under God's grace) and the requirements of Old Testament law. It's a spiritually deadly concoction. To the casual observer it looks Christian--but, it's a characteristic of the false church.Legalism has many subtle expressions. Yet, it's not always easy to recognize. It's difficult to live under Old Testament law unless you also adopt the practice of keeping holy days and seasons (either in whole or in part). The act of observing certain holy days, months, times and years, as Saint Paul tells us, is an indication that legalism is present. Paul's purpose for writing his epistle to the Galatians was to address their rejection of Christ's salvation through faith alone in order to embrace a false salvation through keeping Old Testament law. In my opinion, it's one of the most serious epistles in the New Testament. And, at the same time, it contains some of the clearest language about our inheritance in Christ. People who dogmatically believe in keeping the Old Testament Sabbath tend to leave some things out. According to God's original command a person who breaks the Sabbath is to be put to death. If you're going to keep one part, you should keep it all...right? If not, then your belief is empty. Listen to God speaking to Moses... "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the LORD: whosoever doeth any work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed. And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God." (Exod. 31:12-18 KJV)That's a serious commandment. So, who wants to carry out the death sentence? Keep in mind that if you fully obey this command you'll be found guilty of murder and spend the rest of your days in prison. And, rightly so. Even if you aren't the one to carry out the sentence...do you really want to live under a law that carries such consequences? It seems to me that the freedom under the new covenant, where Saint Paul teaches that we are free from the law, would be a welcomed relief.Some attempt to use the Scripture from Exodus 31 as proof that keeping the Sabbath is for all generations and "perpetual", meaning--forever. This belief is both right and wrong. As we said, the Sabbath (under the Mosaic law) radically changed after the cross of Christ. It wasn't abolished as some believe--but it's method of practice did change. Today, if you teach that keeping the Sabbath as a "holy day" is to be practiced forever--you would be in error. Yet, the New Testament tells us of a new way the Sabbath is to be kept that retains the original intention of the commandment. Instead of a specified day (under the Mosaic law)--the Sabbath becomes a way of life (in Christ). The author of Hebrews tells us about this important change. He calls it "entering God's rest". I won't quote the entire Scripture here because of its length (Hebrews 3:1-19 and Hebrews 4:1-11). But, please spend the time to read it. It's a critical truth. The essence of the Sabbath is resting from work. The New Testament Sabbath also involves resting from work. We stop all work related to obtaining salvation. It involves receiving the merits of the finished work of Christ as our own. Jesus perfectly fulfilled all the Mosaic Law on our behalf. He did it for us. If Christ finished all the work necessary to obtain our salvation--then we have no other choice but rest in what he did. Spiritually speaking, it's a way of life for the Christian. It's Sabbath rest and something to enjoy. If we're constantly laboring and performing...trying to earn God's approval then we haven't entered God's New Testament Sabbath rest. We've actually broken the Sabbath! And, worse, we prove by our actions that we don't really trust in Christ at all (even though we look like a Christian on the outside). That's why the author of Hebrews calls a failure to enter God's rest, disobedience. And this kind of disobedience carries unintended consequences in eternity. Again, the New Testament Sabbath is not a holy day to observe--it's a living faith in Jesus Christ that produces rest. Keeping the requirements of the Old Testament Sabbath can deceive you into thinking you're obeying God. Yet, by failing to enter God's sabbath rest according to Hebrews, you're actually guilty of breaking the Sabbath from heaven's viewpoint. This kind of error is common in the false church and it's a tragedy. Someone might say, "So, I'm legalistic if I go to church on Sunday?" That depends on your motives. If you decide that Sunday is your day to meet with other Christians and worship God. . .fine. Many in the first century church made the same choice. But, if you decide Sunday meetings are mandatory (or an aspect of "keeping the Sabbath")--and that it's a "sin" to violate your rule...yes, it's dangerously legalistic. There is no requirement under the new covenant. Believers have the freedom to choose any day of the week (or, every day) as a time to honor God and fellowship with other Christians. "One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks. For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's." (Rom 14:5-8 KJV)Who Really Speaks For God?What would you do in the following situation? You've just come home from a day's work at the office and dinner is being served. Suddenly, there's a knock at the front door. You open the door and a man in a business suit introduces himself as a Government agent and promptly shows you his identification. You notice three "official-looking" cars double parked in the street outside your house. You're convinced he's the real thing. He apologizes for interrupting your meal and asks if he can speak to you privately for a few moments. You invite him into the living room where he begins by saying, "I'm here on official business for the President of the United States". Would you say, "Well, that's nice, but my wife and I are about to eat dinner--could you come back tomorrow?" Or, maybe your response might be, "Gee, I don't want to miss the movie tonight on television--let's reschedule for next week".I don't know about you, but that man would have my undivided attention--and I'd be inclined to do whatever he asked. My heart rate and blood pressure would probably go up in response to the encounter. Why? Because he speaks for the President. His word carries Presidential authority--the same authority that commands the most powerful military force on earth. In the world of religion the same thing is true. There is no greater authority in the universe than God. If you truly believe in His existence you must respect His authority. In reality, God's authority is far greater than any president or ruler. If you know that someone is speaking on God's behalf--you listen. Does God really have people who speak for Him today? Absolutely! The problem is that all religious leaders claim to speak for God. Why? Because they have no credentials unless they appear to possess a "Divine" mandate. Most people don't flock to church buildings every week just to hear someone's opinion about God. They usually go to hear from God. The human spirit longs to hear God speak to them. We're created that way regardless of what the humanists in our culture say. So, how do you know someone is truly speaking for God? We're not able to cover that topic within the limited space of this article. Yet, there are some rough guidelines we can offer. There are specific characteristics between those in the false church who claim to speak for God and those in the real church who do. Scripture places the most emphasis on motivation. What are the motives for using God's name and authority? How is His authority expressed to those on the receiving end? Did you know that Jesus taught His disciples (later to be the apostles of the early church) how his authority is to be used? He clearly taught that a dominating or "lording it over" authority is not to be practiced by His representatives. Jesus said that a servant's humility was a sign of God's authority. Mandating or coercing obedience is usually the sign of those using a false spiritual authority--even when they claim to speak for God. Keep in mind that false authority is at "epidemic" levels in the modern church. It is found in every expression of Christian Orthodoxy. Important Note: As we discuss the difference between true and false spiritual authority we should remember that our God is motivated by love. When his people place themselves under un-biblical authority God will, at times, use it to speak a life-changing message or even perform miracles and other supernatural manifestations. I'm reminded how God used a donkey to speak to the prophet Balaam (and in the process...saving his life) in Numbers chapter 22. Yet, no one rushed to start ordaining donkeys into the ministry! God can use anyone to get his Word to his people. A characteristic of spiritual maturity is being able to recognize our Father's voice no matter where it comes from. Yet, this action should never be misinterpreted as God "stamp of approval" on the person or their ministry (read Matt. 7:21-23)...and, it shouldn't be your justification for staying under abusive authority. It's absolutely crucial to understand that God NEVER expects you to submit to anyone just because they claim God's authority. Seminary training, ordination or denominational credentials never automatically qualifies anyone! New Testament submission to authority is always voluntary. Our heavenly Father has left this decision up to you. He has commanded YOU to judge a tree by its fruit. Jesus made this statement when talking about false prophets. . .and in today's terms that covers those claiming to be spiritual leaders. Jesus expects you to judge leaders by the characteristics of their ministry. The Lord plainly stated that you can know a false leader by their fruit. (Matt. 7:15-20). Any leader who feels they are above this kind of scrutiny is suspect--and there are many. Jesus repeats this directive in the book of Revelation. The Lord commends one of the 7 churches--the Church of Ephesus: "Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:" (Rev 2:1-2 KJV)Remember that the Bible defines "a Church" to be God's people. . .individual Christians who live in a particular locality. It is not a building, religious organization, a denomination or the "clergy". In this case "the Church of Ephesus" are Christians who lived in Ephesus. Jesus commended them for trying (or testing) those who falsely claimed to be apostles. Few Christians today practice what Jesus taught because they're told that it's a sin to judge. It's no mystery as to why the modern church is briming with false apostles proclaiming a counterfeit gospel.Below are a few characteristics of false authority:
Does a leader use a form of "Divine" authority to intimidate followers? Or, do they teach and live as an example for you to follow--leaving the obedience issue generally between you and the Lord? And, yes I understand there are a few gray areas involving sin where a leader may need to get tough with people. Yet, I'm speaking more of an overall attitude in a leader's approach to ministry. On this one point much of the false authority in the modern church can be filtered out. False authority creates religious tyranny and is used to illegally control lives. God's authority sets people free (2 Cor. 3:17). At this point some may say, "Yes, but what about the command from Hebrews 13:17 to submit yourself to those who rule over you?" Doesn't that Scripture disprove a lot of what you've said? Instead of covering that topic here I wrote another article entitled, The Truth About Hebrews 13:17. You might want to read it for some additional insight. I regularly meet with two other men who are experienced pastors. I've learned much from our discussions, especially in this area of false authority. Most people who attend church organizations fail to use discernment. They accept everything as being "from God" when it originates from a leader with religious credentials and a compassionate disposition. Yet, the Bible teaches that "spiritual dictatorships" (especially benevolent and loving dictatorships) do not represent God's Kingdom regardless of how good they sound. I don't offer this information lightly. I understand how intimidating some spiritual leaders can be. And, they do it with kindness and a smile! If you dare evaluate their claim to Divine authority--you feel as if you're committing the "unpardonable" sin! Yet, Jesus suggests that we must judge the fruit and turn away if the fruit is suspect. The alternative is spending the rest of your life in a church organization living in spiritual bondage, while thinking you're living for God. I've been in this place and my response is, no thanks. I grieve for the millions who will never experience freedom. If you're interested in hearing more on this subject read, Identifying Illegitimate Authority and Redefining God's Love for more insight. Tithing And Godly GivingSome Christians assert that tithing is not "New Testament". Yet, I hear Malachi chapter 3 quoted from the pulpit reminding us that failing to tithe is "robbing God". Testimonies often affirm that tithing brings financial blessing. The conflict is about whether mandatory tithing as presented by the Mosaic Law is binding on the Church. Once again, the truth gets distorted when we fail to "rightly divide" God's Word and lots of precious saints are put in a state of anxiety and uncertainty.For those new to the subject the word tithe means ten percent. It is commonly understood that we are to give ten percent of our income to the Lord (translated to mean the local church). The tithe is mentioned in all three sub-divisions of the Bible: before the Mosaic Law, under the Mosaic Law and in the New Testament. If you read about the tithe before the law...it was an act of worship. It was voluntary and never mandatory. When Abraham met Melchizedek (a figure of Christ in the Old Testament), he gave him a tithe "of all" (Gen. 14:18-20). There is no indication that Abraham continually gave a tithe of everything he acquired from then on. Abraham gave Melchizedek a one time tithe. This is thought provoking. During the institution of the Mosaic Law--the tithe changed from a voluntary act of worship to a requirement. It was mandatory. Lev. 27:30-32 proclaimed that the tithe is the Lord's. And, Malachi chapter 3 tells us that failing to tithe is "robbing God". Under the law, the tithe was applied to all your increase. In the modern church this is interpreted to apply to our money and income. Yet, a close examination of tithing demonstrates that it only applied to those involved in agriculture. The law demanded a tithe of the fruit and produce of the land you farmed--even of the livestock. Popular teaching takes the tithe out of this setting and reinterprets it to mean that God gets 10 percent of every paycheck. Malachi 3 is the most common Scriptural authority quoted to motivate God's people to tithe. Yet, the use of Malachi 3 is misleading because it is speaking to Israel under the law of Moses. There is a common practice in nearly all Christian organizations today. Israel and the Church are placed on the same level--and the requirements from the Mosaic law are subtly (and wrongly) mixed into Saint Paul's "Gospel of Grace". This practice is common and has devastating effects on our relationship with the Lord. Christians are no longer under the Mosaic Law including the part concerning the tithe. Saint Paul clearly draws attention to this important difference in the Scripture below. This changes the conditions. Listen to Saint Paul's words... "For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace." (Rom 6:14 KJV)This short Scripture verse contains a theme that is repeated throughout Saint Paul's epistles. The theme is "Grace" and the Church is under "the Gospel of Grace". Notice that Saint Paul makes an important distinction between between practicing the law and living under Grace. You cannot do both. You can't dabble in keeping the law and attempt to live under grace. They don't mix (we'll discuss this later). Again, Saint Paul makes it clear:"Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace." (Gal 5:4 KJV)Now some Christians who tithe according to the Mosaic law will deny that they are "justified" by the law. No one can be an authentic Christian without being justified only by faith in Christ. Yet, there is a large number of "professing" Christians who have never been justified by faith but believe they are headed for heaven like everyone else because they keep certain commandments, attend church and live a "good" life. My point is that it's a bad practice for authentic Christians to mix law and grace together. Saint Paul condemns the practice flat out! Yet, through wrong teaching about tithing and many other religious practices this is the tragic result.So, what does Saint Paul actually say? You'll find that he talks about free-will "giving" and not about tithing. "But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." (2 Cor. 9:6-7 KJV)The New Testament talks about abundant giving and not about tithing. This Scripture tells us that our reaping (the resources we receive in life) is proportional to our giving. It's a spiritual principle we should take seriously. Yet, some church leaders turn this principle into an oppressive law. They defend the practice by saying that they're only interested in seeing people blessed--and so they make giving an obligation, which turns it into another law we keep to be financially blessed by God. Yet, unintended consequences await those who allow themselves to be caught in this spiritual trap. Giving should not be done "grudgingly, or of necessity". Another Bible translation says that our giving should not be done "under compulsion". Whenever compulsion, guilt or fear are used as motivators for giving, you're seeing a practice of the false church. Saint Paul used the words, "for God loveth a cheerful giver" to describe a heart attitude. Another name for it is worship. Worship is the foundation for all New Testament giving. It's important to also realize that Christians can use the tithe (10 percent) as an amount they have decided in their heart to give but to also know that their decision is personal and not binding on other believers. They must make sure that their practice is not being influenced by the requirments of the Mosaic law of tithing, which are not binding upon the New Testament Church under grace (Read Acts 15). Every Christian needs to perform this evaluation!Why is all of this important? A characteristic of the false church is to use the compulsion of the Mosaic Law as a motivation to pay tithes (and many other popular religious practices). After all, the idea of robbing God horrifies people. It's all from the Bible so most folks don't question it. Most Christians never rightly divide God's Word between law and grace. Both law and grace are found in the Bible (the last time I looked) and both are found in the New Testament Scriptures. Under the Old Testament it was possible for God's chosen people (Israel) to rob him as the prophet Malachi warns. Yet, under the Gospel of Grace (where we are now joint-heirs with Christ and sons of God) robbing God is impossible for a true Christian. It's through practices like this that God's character is distorted. Some people view God as someone who will punish them with poverty and lack if they fail to tithe. I know--I was one of them. You'll find this distorted view of God in the false church...and maybe in your church. We can see at least two motivations for giving. One is mandated and imposed as God's requirement. The other sets you free to be a "cheerful" giver through a heart of gratitude and worship to God...the attitude Abraham demonstrated with Melchizedek. A Biblical Warning:Legalism in any form is disastrous for the Christian because it empowers the curse. The New Testament (or new covenant of Christ) places the believer in God's grace. This benefit is given on the merits of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. God calls it "a free gift". As a result of Christ's sacrifice all God's blessings are available to the Christian. Yet, the Christian can make another choice without fully understanding the consequences. One can choose to (or, at least in part) relate with God by returning to the requirements of the law and attempting to earn God's favor through obedience and performance. This approach only works if you successfully keep the whole law without failing. If you fail in even one small part--you are considered guilty of disobeying all of it (James 2:10). On this point the Scriptures give a solemn warning..."But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee: Cursed shalt thou be in the city, and cursed shalt thou be in the field. Cursed shall be thy basket and thy store..."(Deut 28:15-17 KJV)I've observed this problem with great concern. I'm convinced that the reason most Christians never receive the financial blessing promised by God to a giver is that the "giving" is being practiced under the compulsion of the law--or worse--that much of their relationship with God is based (unknowingly or ignorantly) in legalism rather than in God's grace and faith in Christ. In this situation your finances (and your entire life) can actually be under the curse (read all of Deuteronomy chapter 28) rather than God's blessing. This is one reason Saint Paul opposed legalism so forcefully in his epistles. Churches that attempt to motivate giving (or anything else) by using the compulsion of the law commit a great injustice. This is the primary sin of the false church.The Leaven Of HypocrisyJesus continually warned his disciples about the Pharisees. In Matt. 16:6-12 he told them to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. As Jesus explained his statement the disciples understood that he was talking about the Pharisee's doctrine. Later, Jesus gives more clarity to his statement."In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy." (Luke 12:1 KJV)"In Matthew chapter 23, Jesus gives even more detail about the meaning of "hypocrisy"..."Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. But all their works they do for to be seen of men..." (Matt 23:1-5 KJV)Webster's dictionary defines hypocrisy and hypocrite as, "...a pretending to be what one is not--one who pretends to be better than he really is." There is no better place to do a self-evaluation than on this subject. But, I'll warn you--it's painful. Hypocrisy shows up in places where we least expect it. Many attempt to prove their love for God by hating sin, which inevitably means showing contempt for the sinner. It's easier to look down your nose at someone else's sin rather than dealing with it in your life first. And, it certainly scores points with those around us--especially the pastor. How holy and righteous we must be to take such a stand. How intense our love for God must be! Yet, this attitude reflects a picture of the Pharisees who Jesus condemned. Showing contempt for the sinner while ignoring sin in your own life is the essence of hypocrisy. Yet, it remains an expression of one's commitment to God in many quarters of the church."And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye." (Luke 6:41-42 KJV)In contrast to this attitude, Jesus is called "the friend of sinners" (Luke 7:34). He never rejected the sinner in order to elevate himself in the sight of others. Jesus was sent to seek and save the lost. He understood the best way to reach the lost was through trust and friendship--not contempt. I know few Christians that have close relationships with those outside of Christ. And, I still need to improve my own relationships in this area. Yet, Jesus loved to spend time with those the religious establishment of his day rejected. Sometimes, we are more in the will of God if we skip some Sunday church services and used the time establishing relationships with our unsaved neighbors and friends. A Sunday fishing trip or picnic sounds nice!"And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me. And he left all, rose up, and followed him. And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them. But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners? And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Luke 5:27-32 KJV)Can you hear the contempt and disgust in the words spoken by the Scribes and Pharisees for these "sinners"? There's a lot of this going on today in "Christian" circles. But, the attitude is not Christian at all--it's part of the false church. Loving the sinner is not an indication that we approve of their sin. But many refuse to see it that way.A Works-Based RighteousnessThe false church presents righteousness as a godly characteristic assigned to a person resulting from good works, religious obedience or "right living". There is a common belief that a state of "sinless perfection" can be attained where sin is eradicated from a person's life--and that such a life secures God's acceptance and pleasure. Millions of Christians seek and desire these things. Yet, this noble desire to please God was the driving force behind the actions of the Scribes and Pharisees of Jesus' day. Both of these beliefs result from a destructive practice called "self-righteousness". And, rather than gaining God's pleasure it earns His rejection.The true Church teaches righteousness as something assigned to the believer as a free gift through faith. It is not earned. It is imputed as a benefit of the cross of Christ. The source of this imputed righteousness is not from "self" and it is not based on the Christian's conduct. It is God's very own righteousness (the highest kind) and is assigned to every true believer in Christ! I've written a detailed article on this subject entitled The Righteousness Of The Believer. This subject could change your life. The Church As A "Class" SystemThe false church disregards God's family structure and imposes a "class" system that destroys the normal operation of spiritual gifts and subjects God's people to a type of spiritual tyranny. I'm referring to the clergy/laity religious system. It's almost universally accepted as something God sanctions, but it's condemned by Jesus...and it's ungodly in nature.The true church preserves God's family by placing everyone on the same level--all are brethren. Brethren in the family who have greater experience in spiritual matters, called elders or "older ones in the faith", carry out leadership responsibilities. They are respected, as in any earthly family, for their experience. Yet, they're not placed in a special office that demands obedience. Mandated obedience is forbidden in Christ's true church. Titled authority such as Bishop, Father, Cardinal, Pastor, Apostle, Reverend and so on are avoided because they divide God's people into two distinct groups: The spiritual elite and "common" less mature people. God clearly says that he wants a family--not a "social order". Only God is to be called "Father". Learn more about this insidious doctrine by reading my article entitled Changing God's Family Into A Class System Neglecting The Blood CovenantEverything that Jesus accomplished on the cross falls under the authority of a blood covenant. This truth is probably the most neglected in the entire Bible. Why? Because many believe that it's a cultural concept having little relevance to our modern society. It seems that this type of reasoning is backward. Since when do we judge God's eternal truths by our modern social values? Yet, this way of thinking is accepted without question, even among many professing Christians. I actually had a Christian say to me (in so many words), "Well, It's good that you believe the blood covenant is important--but I look at things from a different perspective." These kind of comments cause me great concern.The false church either neglects or redefines Christ's blood covenant into something that has little relevance. And, they falsely teach naive believers into living outside its provisions. Some preachers present it as one of many perspectives of the cross. Yet, God says that it is the only perspective of the cross. All spiritual blessings flow from it. All the riches of Christ come on the believer as a result of it. All aspects of our great salvation could never be a reality without the institution of Christ's blood covenant! Some of the worst trouble and calamity result from violating its principles and undermining its authority. God takes his covenants "deadly" serious, even if we don't. Want to know more about this neglected topic? Visit the section entitled The New covenant. I also wrote a book devoted to the subject entitled The Mystery Of The Faith. May this truth change your life as it did mine. Truth & UnityRecently I've gained a better understanding of the contradictions in the modern church from Saint Paul's teachings about counterfeits. One of my discoveries involves the two spiritual priorities of truth and unity. To avoid being redundant please read the article Walking In Truth And Love for more information.I don't want to "paint this topic with a wide brush". I'm not saying that just because a church organization places a high priority on unity that it's in the "counterfeit" category. Yet, I've found that the false church has a tendency to make unity the highest priority in God's kingdom--forcing truth to take a subordinate role. If your goal is to destroy or redefine God's truth this is one of the best methods. In this kind of church, truth is watered-down. It is changed or modified in order to be less offensive, to increase church membership and be agreeable to other professing Christians. Some churches make this compromise when a demanding budget makes it dependent upon the financial support of the congregation. If attendance goes down so does the finances. Therefore, offensive things are removed from the "gospel" so attendance will stay up. Of course, all these practices are justified using Scripture from the Bible. Financial pressures commonly force the change--and it's NEVER right. The Bible gives ministers of the Gospel the right to earn their living from the Gospel (1 Cor. 9:14). But, it doesn't give them the right to redefine Biblical truth in order to do it! The real Church reverses this order, making truth the highest priority and allowing unity to form around it. Don't misunderstand--unity has a very high priority in the true church and should be emphasized. Yet, unity takes a subordinate role when truth is jeopardized. This method is the Biblical model, but it's not always a crowd pleaser or an attendance builder. This is why church organizations that have an unbiblical dependence on church attendance have difficulty. You can also see it in leaders who have hidden self-centered ambitions to have the largest congregation and the most successful programs. This is especially true now that we're in the last days before Christ's return. ConclusionIt's time to expose the false church and allow the truth of Christ to set us free! |
