Have you ever wondered why life-saving messages from the Bible are not frequently shared in many churches today? Often, only select portions of Scripture are communicated and disembodied, which contributes to the rise of Cultural Christianity. This form of superficial belief encourages individuals to identify as Christians based on cultural, societal, or familial influences, rather than through a personal and genuine faith in Jesus Christ.

Much like superficial Christianity, which focuses on external appearances and rituals instead of authentic spiritual and moral engagement, this approach often involves participating in religious activities—such as attending church, praying, and reading some parts of the Bible—without truly embodying the core values and teachings of Christianity, such as love of truth, compassion, humility, and forgiveness.

It is essential to understand that true faith requires a personal commitment, not just a hollow or nominal one. As a beacon of truth, the church has the power to inspire and motivate us to deepen our faith. However, if it is led by those who deceive, it can only foster false followers of God who need the truthful guidance of His Word, delivered to them by those whom He appoints (Romans 10:15). In many modern churches today, truthful exegesis on redemption and faith is often overlooked or misrepresented, especially concerning Yahweh's commands for our lives. These decrees, rooted in the benevolent message of love found in God’s Word, are meant to be shared by those divinely appointed by Him. Those who cherish the truth understand its power to rescue individuals from the obscurity of sin via the Holy Spirit, upon which the Gospel is the beacon of hope in a world of darkness. The Holy Spirit's guidance reassures us that we are not alone in our journey to discover and subsequently love the truth that saves (John 16:13; 2 Thessalonians 2:10).

Satan is pleased to see people who aspire to be true Christians attending churches and consuming messages on social media, along with man-made writings and teachings that are not from God. He uses false teachers to spread these misleading messages to those seeking salvation (2 Corinthians 11:14-15; Romans 10:9-13). This is why he and his followers appear as "angels of light,” aiming to deceive even the elect, if possible (Matthew 24:24). Satan is content with a church full of people who identify and have a zeal for God but lack true understanding (Romans 10:1-5). He knows that this leads to the rise of superficial Christians who struggle to be a light to others. Unfortunately, they become examples of what not to be when it comes to truly being converted.

On the other hand, those who are genuinely saved are not just followers but true ambassadors of Christ. They reflect His light through the individual and collective affirmations produced by the Holy Spirit, rooted in the righteousness of Christ (1 Corinthians 14:24-25; Colossians 2:7-9). Their role is not to alter the letter but to faithfully convey the message of reconciliation through Christ, inspiring others to confess their sins and be redeemed. This role as ambassadors of Christ is significant and must be valued. In this context, God's thoughts are far higher than ours, and the perfect message has already been delivered. A true believer's role is not just to share the Word of God but to disclose it by way of examples of love and faith, praying in the hope that it saves the willful sinner from eternal punishment (Matthew 25:46). Even if the recipient rejects the message when given, the seed has still been planted (Matthew 13:1-9). Remember, a Sower does not limit their efforts to a single spot; instead, they spread seeds across an entire field in hopes of a bountiful harvest. As true believers, it is our duty to share His message! It is not our own, but God's, and as He redeemed us, we should be honored and humbled by His saving grace (Romans 3:22-24; Ephesians 2:8-9).

This week and beyond, focus on recognizing the genuine message of love provided by those who embrace the truth that saves. Be wary of false teachers who misinterpret the Word of God, misleading those seeking salvation with messages that aim to make them feel good about their sins. These teachers may appear to be light, but they are ultimately messengers of darkness, intent on leading those seeking salvation astray.

“But what I am doing I will continue to do, so that I may cut off opportunity from those who desire an opportunity to be regarded just as we are in the matter about which they are boasting. For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. No wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. Therefore it is not surprising if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will be according to their deeds.” (2 Corinthians 11:12-15).

Have a blessed week.

Pastor Anthony