The Christian Conscience

What is the difference between so-called CULT MEMBERS, who don't question what they have been taught, and mainstream CHURCH MEMBERS, who don't question what they have been taught? 

What is the difference between so-called CULT TEACHERS, who don't question what they have been taught, and mainstream CHURCH LEADERS, who don't question what they have been taught?

The point being made here, is that some extensive study is needed beyond the teachings of any religion, or " Bible School " or seminary.  Otherwise, the teachers, and their students, may be doomed to a very unpleasant eternity.

In most Christian religions, faith is supposedly in the Bible, or the Word of God, or some other reference to scripture.  In truth, it is really faith in the scholarship, or beliefs of translators working with resources, which today we would have to call primitive.  Also, in many cases, their faith is dependent upon manuscript selections that are seriously suspect.  We cannot expect translators, working hundreds of years ago, no matter how well trained, or how sincere or religious, to be able to match the accuracy of those today, who have computers, many times the number of manuscripts, concordances, interlinear Bibles, and other resources that early translators never dreamed of.

A pastor, or other religious teacher, has an awesome responsibility.  He, or she, should have some familiarity with the resources available, to adequately translate from original languages like Greek and Hebrew, and should be familiar with the manuscript selection process as well.  Because of the use of corrupt manuscripts, many English translations of the Bible should be avoided.  Some even say things in their preface or introductions, which they know to be untruthful.

One example where the problems in translations rears its ugly head is in the gospel of John chapter 3.  In the first eight verses, Jesus tells his nightly visitor, Nicodemus, of the need to be BORN AGAIN FROM ABOVE.  Why don't we read this in most English translations?  The Greek word usually translated "again," is another, which at least 90 percent of the time, means from above, or from the top.  In this case the context demands that BORN FROM ABOVE be used.  BORN OF THE SPIRIT obviously means BORN FROM ABOVE.  The context also tells us that "BORN OF WATER" is the natural child birth from the water environment of the mother's womb, not a reference to a church ceremony.

You might be wondering, "Who cares?"  It is important because this demonstrates that it is necessary for the typical teachings about salvation, eternal life, heaven and hell, etc. to be re-evaluated.  Millions believe themselves to be "saved" and headed for heaven, yet haven't been born from above, and are thus in serious jeopardy.

We find another example in John 3:36, a scripture that is frequently used to teach that salvation is just believing.  When we study the original language, and the context, we find that those who really believe, are those who have been BORN FROM ABOVE, and who OBEY the commandments of Jesus.  A correct translation of the Greek is:

"The one believing into the Son has everlasting life; but the one disobeying the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. "

Questions or comments?  Send us an e-mail to the address below.

At the Mexico Beach Christian Worship Center, we believe that God wants you know the truth about the Bible, and to be born again from above,- not base your eternal future on faulty religious teaching.  At the MBCWC, we don't plead for money, or twist your arm to join.  Plan to check us out this Sunday!  Our services begin, with a time of greeting and fellowship, at 9:30 a.m. CT on Sunday.  Worship begins at 9:45 a.m.  Come early so that you can meet us, and enjoy the praise and worship music led by TJ!  We meet, and worship, at the Mexico Beach Civic Center on 105 N. 31st street, behind Parker Realty, and the Beach Walk gift shop, just off U.S. 98, in Mexico Beach.

God Bless,

Pastor Tim Morrill

Mexico Beach Christian Worship Center

tim1@jesusanswers.com

http://www.mexicobeachcwc.com