It never ceases to amaze me how complete and all encompassing the biblical text is! Here in 2nd Corinthians, Paul is telling the congregation at Corinth that he is preaching the "real Jesus", the same One taught by the other Apostles, and that by knowing the truth of the real Jesus, a person will be able to bear with (be shielded from) an imposter.
As in yesteryear, this teaching is applicable in modern times. The great end-time controversy brewing within the Christian body today is; which Jesus should we worship – the one presented and portrayed within the framework of man’s tradition; or, the One presented solely in scripture; stripped of man’s tradition?
Here’s an illustration of what I’m saying. Just who do the following statements apply to? :
- He is venerated using a cross.
- His birth is celebrated on December 25th.
- His special worship day is Sunday.
- He is celebrated at Easter.
- His male priests are called “Father”.
- His female “priests” are called “Mother”.
Did you automatically say Jesus Christ? That would have been my answer also, until I learned better! No, these statements actually refer to the pagan god Mithra. Mithraism was a pagan belief long practiced before Christ’s advent. It’s traditions and practices have been blended with modern-day Christianity throughout history. What most Christian churches practice today is actually of pagan origin!
Ask yourself the following question: Did first century, apostolic Christians follow and practice the items listed above?
The answer is - absolutely NOT!
Do you begin to understand why Christians are getting back to their first century roots – back to the true Jesus – the biblical Jesus – the Jesus that celebrated on the Sabbath – the Jesus that celebrated Passover – the Jesus that proclaimed the validity of the 10 Commandments?
Do YOU worship another Jesus?
The Observer
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