Christianity Uncluttered
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin Articles
My wife and I were looking for a tool the other day. We knew (or we though we knew) exactly where it was (sound familiar?). As we climbed over the clutter in our storage shed, we both came to the same conclusion — we’ve got to get rid of this clutter!
Although we never found what we were looking for, my mind started to dwell on how Christianity through the centuries had become cluttered with men’s doctrines. We need to removed the man-made clutter from churches so that men can follow the simple teaching of the New Testament of Jesus Christ.
The Bible gives the answer to, “From whence came the clutter?” Paul warned the elders of the church in Ephesus:
“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over 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. Also of your own selves, shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them” (Acts 20:28-30 KJV).
The Bible teaches that man has no right to add to the Word. Paul wondered why many had swerved from the Gospel (Gal. 1:6-8).
The Bible teaches that the Word is complete (Jude 1:3). No further additions are needed since “all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 KJV).
Our Lord rebukes those that would add to His word. Shall we heed Jesus’ wishes?
“Howbeit, in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For, laying aside the command of God, ye hold the tradition of men….” (Mark 7:7-8 KJV).
To tamper with the Word of God, is a fearful thing (Revelation 22:18-19). Why would anyone desire to add to or subtract from the perfect will of God?