The god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ. 2 Cor. 4:4
Have you ever thought that your church may not be right? I mean, its church, they are all right aren’t they? We just interpret the bible differently and that’s OK.
I hate it. This is hard, uncomfortable and politically incorrect, but it is not OK.
Jesus actually addressed seven historical churches in the final book of the Bible, most of whom were not OK. They were whole churches that were wrong. Among their problems were leaving their first love, immorality, false teaching, being dead and being apathetic. Jesus was so disgusted that he told the church in Laodicea that he was going to vomit them out.
I don’t know about you, but I do not want to be in a regurgitated church.
So how do I know if what my church is doing is wrong?
Read
No matter who tells you that you can’t understand the bible alone, do not believe them. You can read it for yourself and you can understand it.
Our letters have been straightforward, and there is nothing written between the lines and nothing you can’t understand. I hope someday you will fully understand us. 2 Cor 1:13
When you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ. Eph 3:4
Test
Just because it feels right doesn’t mean it is. Test the doctrine. Examine the practices and the heart of your church. Nothing is beyond scrutiny. Nothing is out-of-bounds of careful study. Measure it all by the one standard that you know is true, the Bible. Make sure it is led by the only one who is qualified to be its head, Jesus.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Rom. 12:2
Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. 1 John 4:1
Pray
As you read and test, always communicate to the Father. Ask for guidance and truth. He loves to answer that request in full.
I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand. Eph. 1:16-18
Take Responsibility
It is up to you, not your parents, pastor or priest. It is your job to read, study and discern truth.You cannot tell God at your judgement that someone else led you down the wrong path. You will stand alone and answer to the Lord for how you understood and followed his word.
See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men… Col 2:8
But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven. Heb. 12:22-23
