TRUTH IN RELIGION

Musick-al Note # 257
There is an ever-increasing concern on the part of many people about religion. Such an attitude is certainly to be commended and encouraged. Religion is the center, the mainstay of life and those who have deep faith are the most sable, satisfied and mature persons on the earth. Religion should be, yea, must be an integral part of our lives if we are to live well, be happy and overcome all the hardship and toil of living in the world.
At the same time, there is an increasing indifference to the Bible, God’s revelation to man. Answers to difficult questions are sought from psychologists, scientists and religionist who disregard the Scriptures as being vital to man’s needs ion the world. Some are teaching in direct opposition to the revelation of God, and many are teaching only a part of His truth. To give a lesson or answers to questions which only partially reveals God’s will for man, leaves the searcher without adequate knowledge to make his or her decisions properly, and is therefore deceitful. One cannot be taught wrong and make right decisions; therefore, both teacher and student will fall into the ditch (Matthew 15:14). Peter said that if we speak (teach, instruct) we are to speak as the oracles of God (1 Peter 4:11). Solomon spoke truth when he said that there was a way that seemed right to man but the end thereof is the ways of death (Proverbs 14:12). Religious teachers are preaching the doctrines of man and convincing the people that such is the way of God but Jesus said such worship is in vain (Matthew 15:9). True religion, to be worthwhile, must be from the Scriptures. That faith comes from hearing God’s Word, (Romans 10:17); from the Scriptures comes the way of life (John 6:63), Salvation (James 1:21, Romans 1:16) and judgment will be rendered according to the Word also (John 12:48). To teach people to obey commandments not found in the New Testament is therefore despicable, deceitful and sinful. Those who do so will receive a just recompense from the Judge of all men. Sorrowfully, as those who are deceived thereby will receive the same judgment.
Gordon Musick