There ought to be a law against "spiritual abuse" by people who consider themselves spiritual authorities. One of them recently made his annual "prophesies". So many Christians suffer needless fear and anxiety while these "authorities" get rich. One self-anointed authority sold a video telling Christians to buy a gun to protect themselves. One sold millions of books saying the Antichrist was coming. Another lead a group of followers to sell their homes and retreat with him to a mountain. Why do people accept spiritual abuse and keep coming back for more? I am one of those Christians who believes in the priesthood of every Believer.
In 1 Peter 2:5 the Bible says that baptized, believing Christians are to be a "holy priesthood." It goes on to say in verse 9 "you are a chosen people and a royal priesthood." Recognize who you are, Christian, and stop being used "in the Name of Jesus." God's wrod is clear. You don't need a preacher, priest, rabbi, bishop, pope, or pastor to understand God's Word. The Bible is God's "love letter' to you, made understandable by the Holy Spirit. 1 Timothy 2:5 (NIV) says "For there is one God and one Mediator between between God and man, the man Christ Jesus." Go to Jesus using His words. He will not abuse you. He will not take advantage of you for selfish reasons. He will not withhold His truth from you.
When God comes to live in your heart through Jesus, you will have an intimate relationship that you can trust. He loves you too much to deceive you. That can't be said for "false shepherds." (John 10:12-13) Isaiah 55:8 says that God's ways are not man's ways. No human can claim an inside track to God's truth.
IF some "religious authority" deceived you in the past about the Millenium, the Rapture, or some other exotic subject, forgive him and search the Bible for yourself from now on. The Revelation 5:10 says you have been made part of a Kingdom of Priests to serve God forever. Jesus gives that position to you, Use it gratefully.
"Thank you, God, for giving us a understandable message in the Bible. Thank you for gently feeding
your sheep! When it comes directly from you, we can comprehend it and swallow it trustingly. Amen."
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1 comment:
I think we all have fell victim to spiritual abuse one time in our lives.....but the amazing thing is if we search our hearts our amazing God will guide us in the right direction....
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