One of the growing problems in the church today is apostasy. What is apostasy? It is a change in one's belief system to something that is short of the truth. They are literally exchanging the Bible for a lie of the devil... and so many are flying into the web of deception unaware.
Several weeks ago, I posted an entry that mentioned this subject. This is a topic close to our hearts, as we have family that have fallen into the deception of the devil. We grieve for them and have confronted the issue many times only to be met with defiance and determination that they will not abandon their new found beliefs... even if they lose family over it. If apostasy hasn't touched your family in some way, you are indeed among a rare crowd! Our situation escalated beyond the point that it could be tolerated any longer and posed a threat to our young children who haven't been rooted in the faith. We had to make some drastic decisions in order to protect them. It is a very sad situation indeed. What's worse is that it's becoming a scenario that I have seen repeated in many families over recent years.
How do people get to this point? The devil has many tricks. What I have personally witnessed is that the apostates have fallen to sin in some area and struggle to get free of it. They get hooked up with groups/congregations (much like themselves) and begin to be enlightened by new doctrines and teachings. The truth is quickly abandoned for what their itching ears want to hear. There are also common threads that further the deception, such as social affluence, wealth, prosperity, etc. I think of it like the fishing hook that has one main part and tons of little barbs on the side. Once you get "hooked" you have a hard time breaking free.
Many would question, "Does anyone hold all truth?" The answer to that is no. That is no reason, however, to abandon the cardinal doctrines of the Christian faith. When we are Christians, even though we do not hold all truth, we know the one who does and IS TRUTH. He will guide us in all things when allow Him to... even when it comes to understanding His Word. It is up to every believer to be educated and informed not only on what we believe and why, but what other movements/faiths believe and what the main differences/similarities are. Many of these cult like movements will try to focus on the similarities, rather than point out differences. Beware!
While surfing through channels last night, I came across a local broadcast from Family First Church. This Pastor was preaching on apostasy! Later, he mentioned a new book that he has written on this very subject. I was excited to hear about it. The new book is entitled, "Apostasy Now" by Pastor Jerry Johnston and costs $20.
If you are interested in purchasing a copy, you can find it online at the Family First Church bookstore:
Blessings to you today, friend! Have a great weekend.
