Let Me Explain!

Okay my Brothers,

My thoughts on the last blog had nothing to do with "associations".

My thoughts were concerning individual New Testament churches (who are soveriegn and can do what ever they want) and individual members of New Testament churches taking part in the activities of false religions.

I know, please define a false religion--Any organization that does not have the authority Jesus gave His church.
How do you know? By the doctrines they teach. (Bro. James there very well may be a true New Testament church out there that do not call themselves "Baptist") Good luck finding one. Even in non-denominational religions that teach Bible salvation do not teach "church authority"

I do not take part in Catholic, Methodist, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Pentecost, Church of Christ, Church of God, Assembly of God, Nazarene, Latter Day Saints, Jehovah Witness, any Baptists who are not of like order and faith (doctrinally--nothing to do with missions and associational works), Non-Denominational or any other religion that was started by a man, or woman.

I don't pray with them I pray for them. To pray with them is to accept their beliefs.

ie. I was once invited to the football stadium. All the religions in the parish were coming together to pray for the salvation of the youth. I did not go. Some, maybe even some of you, said that I did not care about the youth. They wanted to know why I did not join the effort. My answer to them was this--If all religions assemble to pray for the salvation of the youth, all believing in different ways to be saved, WHO is God going to listen to?

My friends God does not here the prayers of those who ask Him to save by works, baptism, or any other means outside of grace through faith.

To attend this prayer service would be an admittance that each religion represented were just in my eyes and in the eyes of God.

When we as a church or as an individual go to the organized functions of false religions we are consenting to their teachings.

Just as Peter in Galatians, we proclaim by our actions-we implicate that we accept the religion--its teachings and practices.

Okay everyone wants to hear it from me so here it is---M B S F
There is nothing wrong with the MBSF inviting "ALL" "WHOSOEVER" to their Bible studies and any other function they may have.
The MBSF must not, however, compromise teachings to keep from offending other religions (not referring to the doctrinal statement of the ABA.
First teach them how to be saved, teach them of Baptism and church membership also after they are saved.
Of course their are many other lessons for them, things to help them cope with things etc etc.

The MBSF, although they invite all, they should never attend the organized functions of another religion.
When asked why a door is opened to teach them why, and witness to them about Jesus.

This was my thought in my post. The taking part in the organized functions of false religions. As members of the Lord's New Testament church we are to be a witness of truth. We are not to compromise with false teachings. Sadly, this is what has happened with many. Our desire to have fun and be a part of a "Christian" group has caused us to compromise and conform. Churches are conforming, church members are conforming, and God's men are conforming.

My Brethren, in all honesty of heart ask yourself the following question.
When I assemble myself together with a religious group, in a worship setting, or in a manner in which all perceive that a group of "Christians" are gathering together in oneness and harmony; what do my actions say?

To the false religions they say "Hey, we are all working to get to the same place--though we believe different it doesn't matter God accepts us all"
To the onlooking world we say, "There is not difference in any religion, all are equally the same."

AT THE END OF THE DAY

It is your decision. I do not condemn you nor do I attempt to correct you. I am only posting my beliefs that I have based on God's Word. So brothers please let us not get into an all out debate after you wrest some of my phrases from its context. I do love to see people saved. I would never be rude to anyone--not even an athiest.
I would not ridicule them or the religion in which they support. I would, however, do all I could to teach them why I believe what I believe. Lastly, let us be careful at the things in which we participate, in the quest to see souls saved. Let us not use our liberty for a cloak; not all things done in the name of Jesus have anything to do with Jesus.

Love You My Brothers--if you want to debate email me @ grappejc@att.net.