By Jim Miller
Gray, Maine
The word of God can not be our guide if we seek to twist its meaning to serve our own made up beliefs. Too many times a practice is begun by men then the search for justification begins. This is the reverse of what God intended when He gave us the scriptures. All power and authority comes from Christ for that is whom it was give too. Just as God did with the Jew He has given through Christ and His apostles the perfect law of liberty that brings men to Christ for salvation and has set forth a blueprint for man to live by.
When we allow men to over rule that set of instructions and implement their own beliefs we sin. That sin therefore separates us from God. This is why it is so important that we follow the instruction to study. 2Ti_2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. If we fail to study how will we know whether a practice is justified by God first. This my friends is where we have failed. By placing our trust in men we have allowed them to bring in false doctrines. It begins very small at first, well spoken smooth words of love and caring which are meant to deceive. It is like the proverbial frog in the simmering pot of water.
Just as Isaiah wrote to the Jews many have fallen into the same trap. Isa 30:9-10 That this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the LORD: Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits: I ask you how will you know if this is happening within your assembly if you are not prepared and grounded in the truth.
Our Lord knew these things would come to pass and gave warning. Mat_7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Paul also knew what would happen and gave warning. Act 20:27-29 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
Paul knew well that these men would come even from among believers. Act 20:30-31 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
Will you continue to allow this to happen? Will you not stand for the truth and against these false teachers and preachers? Will you not study to be sure what is taught is the truth?
