In the pantheon of ancient prophecies, those found within the Biblical texts often capture the imagination with their vivid imagery and historical resonance. Among these, the prophecy of Jeremiah regarding Elam, which correlates geographically to modern-day Iran, offers fascinating possibilities when viewed through the lens of contemporary events. Could this ancient prophecy have found a partial fulfillment in the tides of Iranian history during the past few decades? This post seeks to explore that intriguing question.

Jeremiah’s Prophecy: A Historical Context

The prophecy concerning Elam, found in Jeremiah 49:34-39, portrays a series of tumultuous events, including destruction, scattering, and eventual restoration. Historically, Elam was a significant kingdom located east of Babylon, corresponding directly to today’s western region of Iran. Jeremiah’s words—delivered over two millennia ago—speak of breaking the bow of Elam’s might and scattering its people across various nations.

The Iranian Revolution of 1979: A Potential Realization?

Fast forward to 1979, a year etched deeply into the fabric of Iranian history. This year witnessed the seismic Iranian Revolution, where the Pahlavi dynasty collapsed under the revolutionary fervor led by Ayatollah Khomeini. This upheaval reshaped Iran from a monarchy into an Islamic Republic. The societal and political shifts were profound, leading to extensive waves of emigration. 

Jeremiah’s prophecy mentions scattering and assailing from all sides, resonating with the reality faced by numerous Iranians who fled the political and religious oppression ensuing post-revolution. By 2020, according to census data, over 585,000 people of Iranian origin resided in the United States alone. This dispersal might echo the scattering mentioned by Jeremiah, sparking contemplation on how ancient words might still find relevance today.

Recent Hostilities and the Breaking of the Bow

Recent developments, notably the hostilities that ignited on February 28, 2026, further enrich this discussion. Could these represent the symbolic “breaking of the bow”? The bow, an ancient emblem of strength, might today parallel the geopolitical tensions and struggles affecting Iran. If peace were to emerge from these conflicts, facilitating societal restructuring, it might align with Jeremiah’s prophecy and its notion of restored strength.

Towards a Future Regathering

Verse 39 of the prophecy holds a promise of regathering—a powerful metaphor for hope and healing. Envisioning a future where Iranian expatriates can return to a peaceful homeland aligns with many aspirations across the global Iranian community. While we must tread carefully in drawing direct lines from prophecy to modern events, the notion of regathering holds universal appeal and reflects the enduring human desire for peace.

Reflections and Conclusions

As we ponder these connections, it is important to recognize the speculative nature of linking ancient prophecies to current affairs. These interpretations do not suggest divine intention for modern conflicts nor justify any political actions. Instead, they invite us to reflect on the perennial influence of ancient texts and how they might inform our understanding of today’s complex geopolitical landscape.

By examining these potential connections, we do not merely revisit history and scripture; we open dialogues about their interpretations and meanings. Prophecies, once silent whispers from the past, may yet speak volumes about our present and future—if only we are willing to listen.

This blog post invites you, dear reader, to join this reflective journey, considering how the echoes of Jeremiah might still be heard today in the unfolding history of a modern nation.

Have you seen those viral posts warning about witches and warlocks casting curses—maybe even using owls as secret messengers? With Halloween vibes and Wiccan influencers online, it’s easy to get spooked. Real talk: Some spiritual danger is legit, but a lot is just superstition. The Bible cuts through the fog, telling us what’s worth fearing and what’s nonsense. Let’s unpack it.

First, the Bible doesn’t ignore the dark side. Witchcraft and sorcery aren’t games—they’re serious rebellion against God. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 lists it right up there: “There shall not be found among you… a sorcerer, or a charmer… or one who calls up the dead. For whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord.” Paul calls it a sin that can keep you out of God’s kingdom . Think King Saul—he snuck off to a witch at Endor, and demons showed up pretending to be Samuel . Or the slave girl in Acts 16:16-18, possessed with a spirit of divination until Paul casts it out. Demons are real, and messing with occult stuff can open doors to trouble . So yeah, if friends are into Wicca or spells, caution flag up—repent and burn the books, like those Ephesians did .

Curses? They exist too, but don’t freak. Balaam tried cursing Israel for cash, but God flipped it to blessing . Proverbs 26:2 nails it: “Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an undeserved curse does not come to rest.” Jesus took every curse on himself , so if you’re in him, you’re covered. No need for counter-spells—just Psalm 91 prayers.

Now, the superstition part: Animals like owls as witch messengers? Total bunk. Owls are just birds—unclean ones, sure , but not Satan’s email service. The Bible pictures the devil as a “roaring lion” or sneaky serpent , not an owl courier. That’s pagan folklore sneaking in, not Scripture. Jesus sent demons into pigs , but owls? Nope.

Wiccan spells sound powerful—”An it harm none, do what ye will”—but they’re smoke and mirrors. Pharaoh’s magicians copied Moses’ miracles at first, then bombed out when rods got real . Elijah smoked Baal’s fake prophets—no spell saved them . John reminds us: “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” . Satan fakes light , but Jesus crushed his powers at the cross . Most “witch power” is mind tricks, coincidence, or bluff.

So, what’s the takeaway? Stay vigilant, not paranoid. Suit up with God’s armor , test every spirit , and fear God alone. Witches walk among us, curses fly—but they’re toothless against the King. Ditch the fear; grab the Word. Who’s with me? 🛡️📖

“God loves the sinner but hates the sin”—it’s a reassuring mantra echoed in countless sermons. But Scripture paints a fuller picture: God hates both sin and unrepentant sinners, a truth spanning Old and New Testaments. This isn’t outdated wrath; it’s the New Covenant’s foundation for grace, urging flight to Christ.

In the Old Testament, it’s stark. Psalm 11:5 states, “The Lord… his soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence.” Proverbs 6:16-19 despises proud schemers and liars as abominations—people, not mere acts. Hosea 9:15 confesses, “Because of the wickedness of their deeds, I will drive them out of my house… I began to hate them.” Malachi 1:3 declares Esau hated , while Deuteronomy 28 unleashes curses on rebels.

This doesn’t fade in the New Covenant. Jesus reserves “eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels” for merciless “goats” —personal judgment. Revelation 21:8, under the new heaven-earth, dooms the cowardly and immoral to the lake of fire. John 3:36 warns, “Whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.” Wrath abides post-cross, on unbelievers.

Hebrews 10:29-31 terrifies: Those trampling Christ’s blood face “a fearful expectation of judgment and a fury of fire… the Lord will judge his people… It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” New Covenant believers are warned against apostasy, lest they meet a hating God.

Yet Romans 5:8 shines: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” God’s pursuing love  targets enemies under wrath , delaying judgment for repentance . Psalm 7:11’s daily anger persists, but Calvary absorbs it for the turning heart.

The myth dilutes this, birthing cheap grace. New Covenant truth? God hates unrepentant sinners to drive us to the Savior who turns hatred to sonship . Repent—the cross bridges wrath to welcome.

Imagine shelling out $50 for a concert ticket—not to see your favorite rock band, but to “worship God.” Elevate your hands, sway to the lights, and chase that emotional high. Sounds spiritual, right? But what if the real product is profit, not praise? Welcome to the multimillion-dollar worship industry, where Hillsong, Elevation Worship, and Bethel Music rake in fortunes from CCLI licensing, streaming royalties, album sales, and sold-out arena tours. Christians pay top dollar for the privilege of singing along to celebrity worship leaders, while Jesus warned against making His Father’s house a marketplace .

The Temple 2.0: A Billion-Dollar Bazaar

Jesus didn’t mince words when He stormed the Jerusalem Temple, flipping tables and driving out merchants with a whip: “Take these things away; do not make my Father’s house a house of trade” . Those money-changers turned sacred space into a for-profit racket, exploiting worshippers who traveled far to offer sacrifices. Fast-forward to today: Worship concerts mimic that chaos. Fans drop cash on VIP meet-and-greets, merch booths overflow with hoodies and devotionals, and arenas pulse with laser shows rivaling Coachella. Hillsong alone reportedly pulls $100M+ annually , Elevation Worship tours pack 20K-seat venues at $40-100/ticket, and Bethel’s ecosystem thrives on song licensing—churches pay CCLI fees to legally project lyrics, funneling millions back to the machine.

Don’t get me wrong: Artists deserve fair pay. Paul the tentmaker worked to support his ministry , and Scripture honors labor: “The laborer deserves his wages” . But when worship becomes a branded empire—complete with private jets, book deals, and influencer pastors—the line blurs. Concerts aren’t free church gatherings; they’re ticketed events where the band is the draw, not the cross. As one insider leaked, “It’s a business model disguised as ministry.” Jesus as the sole celebrity? Forgotten amid the spotlights.

Paying for a Seat at Jesus’ Table

This isn’t harmless entertainment. Believers fork over hard-earned money for an experience Scripture says is free: “Come to me, all who labor…and I will give you rest” . No admission fee required. Yet here we are, buying “nosebleed seats” to scream lyrics like “Oceans” or “Reckless Love,” while the real reckless love hung on a cross without a merch table. It’s the modern equivalent of Simon the Sorcerer trying to buy the Holy Spirit’s power —commercializing the sacred.

Commercial Christianity echoes the Pharisees’ love of “the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces” . Worship leaders become untouchable stars, their songs engineered for radio play and viral TikToks, not raw repentance. Paul urged, “Do not be conformed to this world” , but this world loves celebrities. The result? Shallow faith, where emotional chills replace conviction: “They worshiped the Lord, but they also served their own gods” .

Flipping the Tables: A Call to True Worship

Jesus cleared the Temple twice , roaring, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations?’ But you have made it a den of robbers” . Today’s worship industry? A glossy den, profiting off praise. Churches, wake up: Stream free hymnals, sing Psalms acapella , and make Jesus the only name that shines.

Support creators ethically—buy albums directly, not arena tickets. But let’s not fund empires built on His name. True worship costs nothing but surrender: “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth” . Flip those tables. Make Jesus the celebrity again.

In recent years, a cadre of self-styled deliverance ministers—often dubbing themselves “demon hunters” or even apostles—has surged into prominence through viral YouTube videos, packed stadium events, and incendiary social media campaigns. Figures like Isaiah Saldivar, Mike Signorelli, Alexander Pagani, and Greg Locke exemplify this movement, crisscrossing the United States to cast out demons from ostensibly possessed Christians. They attribute everyday afflictions—anxiety, pornography addiction, even ADHD—to malevolent spirits such as “Jezebel,” “marine demons,” or “trauma entities.” Stadium revivals draw thousands, with dramatic spectacles of attendees convulsing on the floor, emitting guttural groans, or collapsing in what proponents call “Holy Spirit manifestations.” Yet, reports of relapses abound, where symptoms return more intensely weeks later. This phenomenon, while reminiscent of biblical exorcisms, diverges sharply from scriptural precedents, raising profound questions about theological fidelity, psychological dynamics, and spiritual manipulation.

Consider the practices of these ministers. Saldivar, boasting over 800,000 YouTube subscribers, conducts “deliverance maps” and mass exorcisms, claiming to liberate thousands from spirits allegedly inhabiting microwaves or causing depression. Signorelli collaborates with influencers like Grav3yard Girl in New York City events, targeting “hardware demons.” Pagani, author of The Secrets to Deliverance, posits that individuals may harbor up to fifty demons. Locke, pastor of Global Vision Bible Church in Mount Juliet, Tennessee, proclaims himself an apostle—a title he adopted in 2022 amid personal scandals—and has demonized everything from children’s plush toys to dissenting church deacons. Their events often feature participants writhing uncontrollably, barking, or lying unconscious, phenomena strikingly parallel to kundalini awakenings described in Hindu Tantric texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. There, the serpent goddess Shakti uncoils up the spine, inducing kriyas , ecstatic cries, and trance states, as chronicled in Gopi Krishna’s 1967 autobiography. Physiologically, both evoke autonomic nervous system surges—endorphin rushes and frontal lobe deactivation per fMRI studies—yet the former invokes Christ’s authority while the latter channels impersonal energy.

Scripture, however, offers no endorsement for this itinerant demon-hunting model. Jesus and the apostles addressed possession reactively, not proactively. In Mark 1:32-39, after evening healings, Jesus prioritized preaching the gospel over exorcisms. Luke 4:41 depicts demons crying out unbidden, prompting rebuke rather than pursuit. Paul’s annoyance with a slave girl’s spirit in Acts 16 led to a spontaneous casting out, not a targeted campaign. The Lord’s commission in Matthew 10:8 emphasized freely given authority amid house-to-house evangelism, eschewing stadium spectacles. Post-resurrection, miracles confirmed the message , but Paul focused on gospel proclamation . Relapses in these modern ministries echo Luke 11:24-26, where an unclean spirit returns with worse companions to an unfilled house—a dynamic ministers like Pagani acknowledge but attribute to the recipient’s “reopened ground” rather than methodological flaws.

Greg Locke’s self-proclaimed apostleship exemplifies deeper issues. Biblical apostles were eyewitnesses to the resurrection , confirmed by “signs of a true apostle” like unparalleled miracles , and appointed by the church . Locke, ordained young and thrice-married amid a 2022 adultery scandal involving his ex-wife Tai , flouts pastoral qualifications in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. These demand a man “above reproach,” “husband of one wife,” temperate, and of good reputation—standards Locke violates through plushie bonfires, COVID defiance lawsuits, and family estrangements, including public rebukes of his rebellious daughter. His retorts—”anointing covers imperfection,” akin to David’s adultery—ignore 1 Timothy 3:2’s permanence for office-holders and overlook David’s repentance and demotion.

Compounding these discrepancies is a pattern of spiritual manipulation designed to deflect reproof. Both Saldivar and Locke weaponize Psalm 105:15’s “touch not mine anointed,” branding critics as “Pharisees” or demon-possessed. Saldivar, in a 2023 video timestamped at 15:32, declares, “Religious Pharisees hated Jesus’ miracles. Same spirit questions my deliverances—bind it!” During his 2023 LA Revival at 42:10, he attributes relapses to victims’ “doubt,” shifting blame. Locke, post-2022 commissioning at 51:15, labels scrutiny “witchcraft against my mantle.” A 2023 Nashville event with Saldivar  equates opposition with “religious spirits” Jesus overturned. This echoes Diotrephes’ authoritarianism in 3 John 9, stifling the biblical mandate for mutual accountability . Jesus publicly excoriated hypocrites , Paul named false teachers , and 1 Timothy 5:20 prescribes open rebuke—hardly an untouchable elite.

A particularly alarming extension of their influence is the Spiritual Warfare Study Bible, co-endorsed by Saldivar, Locke, and allies. This edition overlays Scripture with wild annotations claiming household objects like Roombas and Keurig machines harbor demons, everyday foods invite witchcraft, and biblical passages mandate binding territorial spirits over cities via public prayers. Such extrapolations lack exegetical grounding, veering into superstitious fearmongering that pathologizes the mundane and fosters paranoia rather than peace . Readers should approach with extreme caution, cross-referencing against plain-text hermeneutics and sound doctrine.

Critics like John MacArthur warn that “hunting demons invites their pursuit,” prioritizing gospel preaching where demons flee naturally. Historical precedents—Shakers’ dances, Azusa Street falls—show experiential excesses across traditions, underscoring the need for discernment . While genuine deliverance occurs, this model’s spectacle, over-demonization of sin or medicine, apostolic pretensions, and anti-reproof rhetoric foster dependency over maturity . Relapses, scandals, and absent fruits  signal a departure from apostolic norms.

Ultimately, the church must reclaim local leadership , integrate counseling and medicine, and test every spirit by Christology . As Galatians 1:8 cautions, even angelic messages warrant scrutiny. In pursuing deliverance, let us not chase shadows but build on the sure foundation of Scripture.

In the heat of battle for biblical truth, it’s tempting to grab any weapon at hand. Books like Alexander Hislop’s The Two Babylons and G.A. Riplinger’s New Age Bible Versions promise devastating blows against Roman Catholicism and modern Bible translations. They rally the troops with bold claims of pagan conspiracies and Satanic influences. But what if these weapons are rusted, bent, or even double-edged? Overstating the case, peddling inaccuracies, or indulging in wild speculation doesn’t just fail to persuade—it harms the very cause we cherish. Worse, it risks sinning against God’s call to truthfulness. As Christians, we must wield the sword of the Spirit with precision, not propaganda.

## The Allure and the Pitfall

Hislop’s 1858 classic argues that Roman Catholicism is a straight-line revival of ancient Babylonian paganism. The Pope? A stand-in for Nimrod. Mary? Rebranded Semiramis, the Queen of Heaven. Riplinger’s 1993 tome goes further, painting the NIV, NASB, and ESV as New Age trojan horses laced with occult terms like “Lucifer” and “holy ones,” masterminded by Freemasons and Theosophists. These books sell because they confirm suspicions and deliver shock value. Yet a closer look reveals fatal flaws: shoddy scholarship, fabricated connections, and outright errors.

Consider Hislop. He links the Catholic mitre to the fish-god Dagon and traces Lent to pagan weeping for Tammuz. Catchy? Yes. Accurate? No. Ancient sources show no Nimrod-Semiramis romance—it’s a late myth Hislop inflates. Dagon priests wore turbans, not mitres. Even Riplinger’s sympathizers cringe at her doctored quotes from Westcott and Hort, falsely tagging them as spiritists. The result? Skeptics and scholars dismiss the entire defense of the King James Bible or Traditional Text, not just the excesses.

## Biblical Warning: Truth Is Non-Negotiable

Scripture leaves no wiggle room. “You shall not bear false witness”  applies universally—even against theological foes. Jesus distinguished between false accusation and righteous rebuke: “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you… for My sake. But I say to you, love your enemies” . Ephesians 4:25 commands, “putting away lying,” while 1 Peter 2:1 urges us to “lay aside all malice… and slanders.”

Even when opponents err—like Critical Text advocates omitting key verses or Rome blending pagan rites—lying about them is sin. It quenches the Spirit , hardens hearts, and invites judgment. Proverbs 12:22 nails it: “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight.”

## Real-World Damage: Scandals That Backfire

Overreach breeds backlash. Hislop’s etymological wordplay  fools no linguist today, tainting Reformation critiques. Riplinger’s plagiarism accusations and phantom conspiracies  have led former fans like Ralph Woodrow to publicly recant. Online atheists cite them as proof “KJV-only folks are nuts,” derailing serious discussions on Byzantine superiority or Jerome’s full-text manuscripts.

I’ve seen it in debates: A solid point on Mark 16’s long ending gets waved off because “You KJV guys believe Hislop’s fairy tales.” Credibility evaporates. Churches split. Seekers scoff. The gospel advances by truth’s power, not trickery .

## Better Weapons: Precision Over Polemic

We don’t need hype. Defend the Traditional Text with Burgon’s The Revision Revised, Hills’ The King James Version Defended, or Maurice Robinson’s patristic studies. Against Rome, lean on Foxe’s Book of Martyrs or primary councils—not myths. Critique modern versions? Use Aland’s own stats on Alexandrian omissions, not occult fever dreams.

Truth honors God, convicts consciences, and stands scrutiny. It even softens enemies: Speak accurately about Westcott-Hort’s liberalism, and doors open for real dialogue.

## A Call to Arms—Truthful Ones

Brothers and sisters, let’s pledge: No more overreach. Test every claim . If a book’s wrong, say so—even ours. Love demands honesty: “Even to him who is a bitter enemy to the truth… we owe the strictest courtesy” . Reclaim apologetics as holy ground. The faith once delivered deserves defenders who fight clean.

In a world drowning in fake news, let’s shine as lights—truthful, unashamed, victorious.

For further reading: Woodrow’s The Babylon Connection? , Cloud’s reviews of Riplinger, Burgon’s works.

# Truth Over Triumph: The Dangers of Apologetic Overreach in Defending the Faith

In the heat of battle for biblical truth, it’s tempting to grab any weapon at hand. Books like Alexander Hislop’s The Two Babylons and G.A. Riplinger’s New Age Bible Versions promise devastating blows against Roman Catholicism and modern Bible translations. They rally the troops with bold claims of pagan conspiracies and Satanic influences. But what if these weapons are rusted, bent, or even double-edged? Overstating the case, peddling inaccuracies, or indulging in wild speculation doesn’t just fail to persuade—it harms the very cause we cherish. Worse, it risks sinning against God’s call to truthfulness. As Christians, we must wield the sword of the Spirit with precision, not propaganda.

## The Allure and the Pitfall

Hislop’s 1858 classic argues that Roman Catholicism is a straight-line revival of ancient Babylonian paganism. The Pope? A stand-in for Nimrod. Mary? Rebranded Semiramis, the Queen of Heaven. Riplinger’s 1993 tome goes further, painting the NIV, NASB, and ESV as New Age trojan horses laced with occult terms like “Lucifer” and “holy ones,” masterminded by Freemasons and Theosophists. These books sell because they confirm suspicions and deliver shock value. Yet a closer look reveals fatal flaws: shoddy scholarship, fabricated connections, and outright errors.

Consider Hislop. He links the Catholic mitre to the fish-god Dagon and traces Lent to pagan weeping for Tammuz. Catchy? Yes. Accurate? No. Ancient sources show no Nimrod-Semiramis romance—it’s a late myth Hislop inflates. Dagon priests wore turbans, not mitres. Even Riplinger’s sympathizers cringe at her doctored quotes from Westcott and Hort, falsely tagging them as spiritists. The result? Skeptics and scholars dismiss the entire defense of the King James Bible or Traditional Text, not just the excesses.

## Biblical Warning: Truth Is Non-Negotiable

Scripture leaves no wiggle room. “You shall not bear false witness”  applies universally—even against theological foes. Jesus distinguished between false accusation and righteous rebuke: “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you… for My sake. But I say to you, love your enemies” . Ephesians 4:25 commands, “putting away lying,” while 1 Peter 2:1 urges us to “lay aside all malice… and slanders.”

Even when opponents err—like Critical Text advocates omitting key verses or Rome blending pagan rites—lying about them is sin. It quenches the Spirit , hardens hearts, and invites judgment. Proverbs 12:22 nails it: “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight.”

## Real-World Damage: Scandals That Backfire

Overreach breeds backlash. Hislop’s etymological wordplay  fools no linguist today, tainting Reformation critiques. Riplinger’s plagiarism accusations and phantom conspiracies  have led former fans like Ralph Woodrow to publicly recant. Online atheists cite them as proof “KJV-only folks are nuts,” derailing serious discussions on Byzantine superiority or Jerome’s full-text manuscripts.

I’ve seen it in debates: A solid point on Mark 16’s long ending gets waved off because “You KJV guys believe Hislop’s fairy tales.” Credibility evaporates. Churches split. Seekers scoff. The gospel advances by truth’s power, not trickery .

## Better Weapons: Precision Over Polemic

We don’t need hype. Defend the Traditional Text with Burgon’s The Revision Revised, Hills’ The King James Version Defended, or Maurice Robinson’s patristic studies. Against Rome, lean on Foxe’s Book of Martyrs or primary councils—not myths. Critique modern versions? Use Aland’s own stats on Alexandrian omissions, not occult fever dreams.

Truth honors God, convicts consciences, and stands scrutiny. It even softens enemies: Speak accurately about Westcott-Hort’s liberalism, and doors open for real dialogue.

## A Call to Arms—Truthful Ones

Brothers and sisters, let’s pledge: No more overreach. Test every claim . If a book’s wrong, say so—even ours. Love demands honesty: “Even to him who is a bitter enemy to the truth… we owe the strictest courtesy” . Reclaim apologetics as holy ground. The faith once delivered deserves defenders who fight clean.

In a world drowning in fake news, let’s shine as lights—truthful, unashamed, victorious.

a.co/hKWW6em

The Warning of Galatians: Adding On

There is a basic and critical question that every Christian needs to answer for themselves: “What am I trusting for my salvation?”

In my youth and some of my adulthood I was taught and promulgated the Five Step Plan of Salvation. What could possibly be the danger in that? Well, we are to trust solely in Jesus for our salvation, and if we overemphasize checking off the boxes in the Five Steps over faith in Jesus, we run the risk of trusting the Plan instead of the Savior! “Trust” is one of the primary meanings of “pistis”, the Greek word translated “faith”.

Let’s see what Paul taught in Galatians 5 on this subject.

(Gal 5:2-6 ESV) “I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you.  3 I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law.  4 You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace.  5 For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness.  6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.”

Now many will jump to say that Paul is only talking about the Law of Moses, and they would be half right. Paul certainly has the Torah in mind, but look at the basis for his argument.  Why is it that insisting on circumcision as a condition for salvation leads to a false gospel? Because Paul says that circumcision doesn’t count for anything. The only thing that counts is “faith working through love”. Because circumcision is neither faith nor love (even though someone might endure circumcision to show his love or faith in God), it doesn’t count. As a result, it destroys faith.

Really. Period. “You who would be justified by the law; you have fallen from grace.”  Is this because there is something terrible or sinful about the law? No! The Law was perfect. The reason, as stated by Paul, is that the Law is not faith in Jesus.  Paul didn’t say, “You are following the wrong law.” He said “You’re following Law rather than faith in Jesus working through love.”

Adding circumcision to faith in Jesus as a requirement of salvation damns. And that’s a false gospel, as Paul declared in Galatians 1.

So what’s the difference between requiring acapella singing or weekly communion, or a plurality of elders as a condition of salvation? Both add to faith in Jesus. Both make faith insufficient. None are faith working through love.

That is not to say that obedience and works don’t matter, but that they aren’t the path to salvation. They are, rather, evidence of salvation because they are fruit of the Spirit, which only the saved have. We should teach what we believe regarding worship or church organization. But we are not authorized to make those views conditions of salvation. They aren’t faith in Jesus working through love. They just aren’t!  The saved will inevitably seek to obey and be fully committed disciples.

They will get some of it right, and some of it wrong. Perfection will not be achieved in this lifetime, and grace more than covers our mistakes, both moral and doctrinal. Just hold to faith in Christ and let His love work in you as a fruit of the Spirit. But do not add to what is required for salvation. It is faith working through love. Period.

Where I come from, there has been a sustained effort over the years to reflect, as much as possible, the pattern left by the church of the First Century. We don’t do things we can’t find authority for in the New Testament, and by and large believe that the church today should shed 2,000 years of add-on s and extras, come out of our denominations, and just be Christians. While it is a work in progress, much has been done to that end.

But I’ve got a question for your consideration. Should we make it our goal to be just like the church of the First Century? Should our efforts be directed toward that singular destination? I submit to you that the answer to that question is a definite “no”. Before you panic, here’s what I mean.

There are definitely some things about First Century Christianity that we should desire for the church today. After the Day of Pentecost, the church in Jerusalem was described this way:

So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls. They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common; and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved. (Acts 2:41-47 NASB)

Doctrinally, we should be just like that church. We should also have a deep sense of fellowship with other believers, and we most certainly should have deep convictions about the Apostles doctrine. I even believe that if we lived it out correctly, that we would see the Lord adding to our number daily, those who were being saved. Do you want a pattern for the Church? Start with that one! But, as wonderful as that is, it’s not our goal. Being just like First Century Christians is a means to an end. It is the path we take, not our destination!

You see, the church at Laodicea was also a First Century church. The church at Corinth with its problems with carnal members and weekly chaos, was a First Century church as well. Read about seven First Century churches in Revelation chapter 2 and 3, and you will see that five of them needed to fix things, and two of those were in bad enough shape that Christ did not have anything good to say about them. But sure enough, they were singing acapella, taking the Lords supper, and baptizing for the remission of sins.

There is no virtue, in and of itself, in being a First Century church! I repeat, it is just a means to an end. Our ultimate focus has got to be Jesus. When we focus on Jesus we will aim for the correct goals. Our goal as a congregation of believers is to love the Lord our God and show that love in our obedience. And we are to love our neighbors, and show that love in how we treat others. There is a real danger in turning the route into the destination!

On the flip side, unless we take the correct route, we will not reach our goal. The two go hand in hand, but they must never be substituted for each other.
So yes, we still want to worship in First Century simplicity, and we still will teach the same doctrine as the Apostles. And if we do so in love and with zeal, we will bring many along with us on the way to our eternal destination.

Are You Going To Eat That?
Today’s post starts with the inspired narrative telling about dire situation that ensued when Samaria was under siege by Syria and was totally cut off. No longer could they go to Jerusalem to worship at the temple and offer sacrifices to God. They were isolated and starving physically and spiritually.

“Now it came about after this, that Ben-hadad king of Aram gathered all his army and went up and besieged Samaria. There was a great famine in Samaria; and behold, they besieged it, until a donkey’s head was sold for eighty shekels of silver, and a fourth of a kab of dove’s dung for five shekels of silver. As the king of Israel was passing by on the wall a woman cried out to him, saying, “Help, my lord, O king!” He said, “If the LORD does not help you, from where shall I help you? From the threshing floor, or from the wine press?” And the king said to her, “What is the matter with you?” And she answered, “This woman said to me, ‘Give your son that we may eat him today, and we will eat my son tomorrow.’ So we boiled my son and ate him; and I said to her on the next day, ‘Give your son, that we may eat him’; but she has hidden her son.” When the king heard the words of the woman, he tore his clothes-now he was passing by on the wall-and the people looked, and behold, he had sackcloth beneath on his body. Then he said, “May God do so to me and more also, if the head of Elisha the son of Shaphat remains on him today.” (2 Kings 6:24-31 NASB)

This is such a heartbreaking scene, but it is typical of what happens when people are completely cut off and begin to despair of life. Desperation breeds panic, and people find themselves doing things that they would have once been unthinkable.
The Israelites had been reduced to eating dove dung and donkey heads. Can you imagine what it would be like to come home to Dove Dung Soup or Donkey Head Surprise? What type of hopelessness brings people down to that level? And during their fight to survive they keep seeing the prophet, Elisha, who had told them how to keep out of this danger by turning to God and forsaking their idols. Instead of heeding the Word of God, the wanted to kill the messenger.

In many ways, we are the same way personally. When we cut ourselves off from God, we inevitably, eventually will find ourselves doing things we never would have done before, accepting as normal things that were once an abomination, and wanting to close our ears to any who would show us the way back to God. Take a look at the things you watch and listen to. Look at the activities you see or even participate in that once would have been shocking. How desensitized have we become? How seared over are our hearts against being sensitive to what pleases God? It is like in our day, we have replaced the idols which brought judgment on the Northern Kingdom of Israel with full length mirrors. With great seriousness and piety we look into the mirror and say, “My kingdom come, my will be done” as we submit to our ideas instead do to the Word of God.

Our national conscience has also been deadened. We have a society that openly promotes that which God condemns. It stands in defiance to the commands of God, and declares that he has no place in government, as if somehow that means God will be able to leave our nation’s sin unjudged because we have declared ourselves “secular”. We are consuming toxic, filthy, garbage (i.e. dove dung soup and donkey head surprise) and calling it normal, and freedom. But in the end it will kill us as a nation! And just like in the narrative above, the children are the ones who suffer and are consumed.

We have to wake up and see our situation the way God sees it! We have to take another look and what we watch and listen to and laugh at, and measure it by the Word of God and decide one thing – if I am taking this in, is it pure food, or is this dove dung and donkey heads served on a silver platter. Because filth and garbage served in a fanciest restaurant by waiters in tuxedos, is still toxic and it will slowly kill you.

Our God loves us so much that, even while we are wallowing in the gift wrapped filth of the world, He demonstrated His love for us by sending His Son to die for us. (Romans 5:8) His desire is to give us the bread of life and living water. To fill us with things that bring life instead of corruption so we will never hunger and thirst again. God said it this way through the prophet Isaiah:
“Ho! Every one who thirsts, come to the waters;
And you who have no money come, buy and eat.
Come, buy wine and milk
Without money and without cost. “Why do you spend money for what is not bread,
And your wages for what does not satisfy?
Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good,
And delight yourself in abundance. (Isaiah 55:1, 2 NASB)

All of this sustenance is to be found “in Christ”. How do we get into Christ? By hearing and understanding the Gospel, repenting of our sin, confessing faith in Him, being baptized into Christ.
“For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” (Galatians 3:26, 27 NASB)

There it is. It’s simply beautiful and beautifully simple. Obey the Gospel and be added to the body of Christ. Then you can forsake the filth of the world (repentance) and follow after Christ.
Don’t delay.
The world will try to convince you that right is wrong and wrong is right.

Come to Jesus, on His terms, today!
(Acts 2:38)