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NASB | Matthew 8:5 ¶ And when Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion came to Him, imploring Him, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 8:5 ¶ As Jesus went into Capernaum, a centurion came up to Him, begging Him [for help], [Luke 7:1-10] |
Subject: A FALSE TEACHING? Yes / No |
Bible Note: Dear LDS, I have no doubt that you are sincere in your belief, but sincerity alone is of no value whatsoever. Rom 10:2" For I testify about them that they have a zeal for God, but not in accordance with knowledge." The Jews sincerely believed that righteousness could be gained by way of the Law. Their mis-placed sincerity in a false doctrine condemned them to eternal seperation from the only way to God; Faith in Jesus Christ and His substitutionary death on the cross on behalf of sinners. I am not saying that you or anyone else in WOF are lost. I am merely pointing out that bad doctrines make bad foundations on which to build a house. Eph 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. We are His workmanship! That is where my understanding of Scripture begins and ends. We are not our own, we have been purchased by Christ. How does this fact harmonize with the man-centered teaching of WOF? Their teaching throws man back upon himself and his ability to develop for himself power to move mountains. This leads to despair and guilt: Why do I still have cancer (one may cry)? The answer from WOF is: "Because your faith is small. You must read the Bible more, pray more, fast longer, give more generously to the ministry. So, if you still have cancer it's your fault that you are a feeble saint." I know what I'm talking about, I've been where you are now. It is bondage of the worst kind. I have witnessed the same people heading for the altar Sunday after Sunday; month after month and year after year. It is so sad, and it makes me angry. What does the Bible say about sickness, poverty, depression, etc.? Rom 8:28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. That verse alone abounds in hope for all who recieve it in faith. What a magnificent promise! May God give us the grace to live by it. I do believe in Bible study, prayer, supporting the church, etc., but I see these things as means which God uses in the lives of His people to accomplish His purpose. Grace and Peace, John Reformed |