October 25, 2008

Preserve the Gospel

“But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.” (Galatians 1:8-9 NKJV)

Believers today seem to think that the enemies of the Gospel are no longer active. This is not true, and it is a sad testimony to our current state of alertness. The Gospel has always been under attack, but the believer’s awareness is not as keen today. Listen to the tenor of Robert Haldane’s comments.

When the canker of the principles of neology [the use of new meanings for established words], derived from the Continent and from America, is perverting the faith of many and seducing them into the paths of error—which a spirit of lukewarmness and indifference to truth is advancing under the mask of charity and liberality, there is a loud call on all Christians to “stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the Gospel,” to present a firm and united phalanx of opposition to error under every name—from whatever quarter it may approach. Should believers become unfaithful to their trust and be seduced to abandon their protest against false doctrines, they may gain the approbation of the world—but what will this avail when compared with the favor of God? But if (with prayer to God, in the use of the appointed means) they contend earnestly for the truth, then they may expect the gracious fulfillment of the blessed promise, “When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.”-- Robert Haldane, 1764 – 1842

The need for stanch opposition is needed more today than ever. It is likely that many have been seduced by the cry of charity and liberality. No one likes controversy, but it is the way of the truth. Jesus said they would persecute those who hold to the truth. He also said that when they do the believer is blessed.

Very few Christians in this country face any real persecution. Could it be that’s because believers have simply given in and are no longer willing to fight? It is probably much worst. It’s likely that believers don’t even know the Gospel they are hearing is polluted.

Make sure what you are telling people is the real Gospel and not some look-a-like message because Paul says, about the one who preaches falsely, let him be accursed.

How do you know what is right? Start by reading for yourself. Become a student of the word. Ask questions of the text when you read. Take the Scriptures at face value whenever possible, and remember the golden rule of Bible study—Scripture interprets Scripture. Start your search today.