This Week |
#35 (5-2-04)
Latitudinarianism
I am becoming increasingly convinced that
the evangelical Church is embracing and absorbing latitudinarianism. Many
people have no idea it is happening because they have no strong attachment
to Truth. Insufficient time and effort in establishing the Word of God in
our hearts, or ignorance that allows practitioners of such foolishness to
influence our thinking, has created an environment where extra-Biblical
drivel survives and thrives.
In John 14:6, Jesus spoke clearly the
message of the Gospel. In Acts 4:12, Luke records Peter’s address to the
Sanhedrin in which he unmistakably condemns every religion as a lie.
Some religions claim that sinners are not
justified by faith alone, through grace alone, by Christ alone (Roman
Catholicism). Some extreme Word Faith movement followers damage the Truth
of Christ in an effort to make ‘health, wealth, and happiness’ the focus
of salvation.
We are often encouraged to accept all
“doctrines” so that unity might prevail. To cling to, and express the
Truth, is considered intolerance, and, for many, tolerance is the pinnacle
of the enlightened mind. In the opinion of some, a simple affirmation of
Jesus, and a lifestyle embracing any number of individual preferences, is
preferable to creating division by exactness.
Be reminded that the enemy does not care
what we believe as long as what we believe is not the Truth. Antinomianism
invades our ranks and makes obedience elective. Sanctification is
relegated to noncompulsory standing. Imputed righteousness becomes a
non-issue. The most basic fundamentals of authority, inspiration, and
infallibility of Scripture are left without a champion. Somewhere we must
return to a core of objective Truth that is absolute and non-negotiable.
Jesus said, “you shall know the Truth,
and the Truth will make you free.” Jesus also said, “I am the Truth.”
I know He was right.
©2004 Weaver