Topics covered include: the definition of religion, relationship vs. religion, tradition and ritualistic ceremonies, church dogma, and what makes for a good Pharisee. Additionally, Judaism, Catholicism, the Last Adam, United Methodist, Seventh-day Adventist, and the gift vs. good works counterfeit. Plus, is Christianity really just another religion?
Following Jesus Christ G-d incarnate and having a personal relationship with Him, is true "freedom from religion." It's not about being a Baptist, Catholic, Adventist, Lutheran, or even a Mormon, Jehovah's Witness, Muslim, or Buddhist, along with many others.
Adam and Eve's relationship with the Creator was not man-made religion, this was actually walking with the Lord in the garden in close, loving, interaction and communication with their Maker. The Apostles had β a close, interactive, loving and personal relationship with the eternal Christ. This we may call "religion" at the time in its original form, as the Bible describes on a few occasions, as well as, children of God, believers in Jesus, in addition to being called Saints, the "Way" and "Christian."
The term or title "Christian" may be, at times, under the category of religious as well for some if the person, denomination or sect includes the required good works of water baptism, communion, and any other traditions or unbiblical church dogma applied to earning your initial salvation.
This, in contrast to following Jesus Christ and His Word as a disciple and son or daughter of the Creator and King of the universe, by His grace, mercy, faith and gift of salvation.
What is the definition of religion?
The world view and man's definition: a belief in, obedience, or worship to a supernatural power or powers, a god, or God considered to be divine or to have some level of control over human destiny. The term religion or religious consists of a general term used for any and all beliefs, such as Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Mormonism, Catholicism, and many other world religions. In addition, its holy days, or other human-induced or philosophically commonly accepted tools of religion.
The word βreligionβ means to observe and to abide by. Some, but not all Christians, certainly βobserveβ many ordinances or work-oriented tenants, when this should not be the case. Almost all Christians believe in water baptism and receiving or practicing communion. These two examples become ritualistic and slide towards the side of religion if it's directly connected to obtaining salvation by good works. Religion can be described as a set of laws, in a legal sense.
The Creators definition, the Bible says that genuine religion is...
'Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted [polluted] from the world.' It's helping and serving others in need and maintaining personal holiness, rather than worldly religious practices.
James 1:27
Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straightest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.
Acts 26:5
For you have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers..
Galatians 1:13
If any man among you seem to be religious, [scrupulously observant of the rituals of his faith], and does and bridleth not his tongue, but deceives his own heart, this man's religion [faith] is vain [futile].
James 1:26
Authentic Christianity is not a religion and definitely not involving humanity's attempt to reach God, but rather, God first loving us, and His attempt to reach humanity to redeem our souls to His light and life.
Some religions in the past, like Islam and Catholicism, along with certain ones in modern times, have the reputation of being oppressive or abusive at times in history, mostly due to pride, control, and hatred, instead of being a genuine follower of Christ in the power of His love. Truly respecting and loving your neighbor and learning to have a servant heart towards others.
Jesus Christ is not condoning us in history of being oppressive, wicked masters (of slaves), dictator leaders, hate others and teaching His followers to be abusive. This is in error and far from the truth.
Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and He made us in His image and to have a loving relationship with Him. He is love, grace, mercy, and freedom in His redemptive, perfect sacrifice. He's offering the gift of salvation to all that believe and follow after Him.
Historical classic Christian belief is centered on an obtainable personal relationship between the creator God and His human creation. To be clear and straightforward, Christianity is a religion.
However, following Jesus Christ, the living God and Savior, is a relationship and walking with Him and the Holy Spirit of God, indwelling a believer. Seeking and loving the Lord is not defined as a religion, any more than a parent or a friend relationship is a religion, when they are truly personal relationships.
The Pharisees and Sadducees in the Bible had no relationship or Holy Spirit living in them. If they denied Jesus Christ, His resurrection, and Him being the Messiah and Son of God revealed in the flesh. Instead, they only followed good works that counterfeit salvation, by way of religion and ceremonial laws and tradition, and remained lost in their sins. They all fell short of keeping all of the laws 100%, which would be required to enter the Kingdom of God. When the true way, and only path is through Jesus Christ and His plan of salvation, as Jesus frequently corrected and rebuked the Pharasees and Sadducees.
For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:8..
Most religious people don't comprehend and accept β the Lord's grace and free gift of salvation. They like resting in church salvation, penance, good works, tradition, and ceremonies β and making them feel they are earning something, or for some, sustaining their salvation position.
The Pharasees and Sadducees, the religious elite of the time, were the ultimate example of this within Jewish laws and customs, but Jesus corrected and judged their sinful actions and motives of the heart. They were appearing clean, holy and righteous in their own minds, on the outside to the public in prayer and other practices, following ceremonies and their own prideful ways. However, they were dirty in their hearts (souls), attempting to manipulate and trap Jesus in the corner many times, and most of them were not saved and going to heaven, for the ones that continued to deny and despise Jesus Christ and reject His truths. Only the Lord would know if some of them entered heaven or not.
But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for you neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.
Matthew 23:13
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.β
Matthew 23:25..
You don't need to do religious ritualistic ceremonies and follow a church, synagogue, temple, or mosque to be saved and enter heaven. What is required, is to follow Jesus Christ, "Come follow me." His gracious free gift of salvation cannot be earned with the good works and rituals we may do.
The Lord is with you when you are with him. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you.
2 Chronicles 15
Four Steps to Take
In order to genuinely and seriously follow Jesus Christ, instead of religiosity β First, you need to believe and have faith, that Jesus Christ is God (Creator), manifested in human flesh (bodily). He is not a created being. He is eternal, has always existed with the Father and Holy Spirit.
Second, believe Jesus Christ was bodily crucified and buried.
Third, believe Jesus Christ was later bodily resurrected from the dead.
Fourth, you need to ask for forgiveness of your sins, and learn the Scriptures and desire to follow Jesus Christ by obeying two commandments, which will naturally fulfill the rest of the commandments of the Lord:
The Great Commandment
Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?β And he said to him, βYou shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor [love one another] as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.β Matthew 22
Learn more on...
How to Reset Your Life γγ
For Judaism, a Messiah in Hebrew: Mashiach, ΧΦΈΧ©Φ΄ΧΧΧΦ·, is originally defined as any person anointed by a priest or prophet of G-d, a king, savior and liberator figure in Jewish eschatology. Yeshua HaMashiach is Hebrew for βJesus the Messiah.β The name of Jesus in Greek is "αΌΈΞ·ΟΞΏαΏ¦Ο" (pronounced (ee-ay-sooce) "IΔsoΕ«s."
There are many Jewish scholars that have considered Jesus a false prophet, and with this, they do not accept the idea of any kind of resurrection, and the position of Jesus as deity is not accepted or acknowledged. Rabbinical Judaism believes G-d cannot be manifested in a man, placing their own limitations on the Creator's capabilities and ways, as described in Isaiah 53 and additional passages.
G-d cannot be man you may say?
But wait, He can become a G-d man though...
And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with G-d: for with G-d all things are possible. Mark 10 (His power, grace and salvation).
Judaism's position of the Messiah differs significantly from Christian beliefs. A Messiah who is killed and does not fulfill the Torah observances, a return of Jews to the homeland, and rebuilding the temple is rejected as the Moshiach of the Jews. Judaism also rejects the New Testament Scriptures and teachings of the Messiah Jesus Christ.
The cross and Jesus Christ crucified, a stumbling block for Jews. 1 Corinthians 1
Similar to Mormonism and the majority of other religions that pursue earning salvation or seeking to enter the gates of heaven by good works -- Judaism is a behavioral, law-based religion. It's upon your actions on the Torah laws, and Tanakh, with the goal to achieve the least number of sins possible, whether you go to heaven or not. If you reach a high enough standard of righteousness in the Creator's eyes by doing good works, you just might potentially merit salvation and enter the gates of heaven.
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For there is not a just man on earth who does good, and does not sin.
Ecclesiastes 7
For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5
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Most Judaism sects do not share the Christian belief of salvation, and do not acknowledge people are born into the sin nature as well, or that a hell even exists. With Judaism, they are still waiting thousands of years for their Messiah (Mashiach) to appear, but Christ already came β they denied Him. They were looking for a king to rule with power, as they define a king, by the world's standard. Not a king that rides in on a donkey, and dies on a Roman cross.
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion!
Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem!
Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation,
Lowly and riding on a donkey,
A colt, the foal of a donkey. Zachariah 9
Then Jesus, when He had found a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written:
βFear not, daughter of Zion;
Behold, your King is coming,
Sitting on a donkeyβs colt.β
His disciples did not understand these things at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things were written about Him and that they had done these things to Him. John 12
Note: Just because someone says they're Jewish does not necessarily mean they hold or practice the traditions, ceremonial laws, and tenets of Judaism.
Some may believe, "I'm Jewish, therefore, I'm saved or I do these traditions, festivals and ceremonies."
This position is a false sense of security. It's not a true statement just because you think it's true or due to being raised in the culture. You are only saved one way, if you believe Jesus as Messiah (Mashiach) and follow Him as the Son of G-d. Remember, the Pharisees and Sadducees, attempting to follow and abide by the laws and commandments, didn't make the mark and enter the Kingdom.
The Jewish people should not take the gamble with their souls and reject Jesus Christ the Messiah. Many in Judaism are truly sincere in their faith; however, they just don't know, they are actually not following the Father as they believe.
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The woman said to Him, βI know that Messiah is comingβ (who is called Christ). βWhen He comes, He will tell us all things.β
Jesus said to her, βI who speak to you am He.β John 4
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There are many Messianic Jews (some may be called Jews for Jesus, or Hebrew Christians), worldwide that have chosen another path. They are born Jewish, accept and follow Jesus Christ, the Messiah, Son of G-d and His resurrection. Messianic believers accept the Torah (first five books of the Bible), in addition, the rest of the Old Testament, and New Testament, and follow Jesus (Yeshua) Christ's teachings and grace of the Gospel. In doing so, they have the Father also, and the gift of salvation and assurance of eternal life and entering heaven. This is true Judaism, but at the same time, no Messianic Jewish person should look down at American and European Christian culture, for Christians call Him by the name Jesus Christ, in English. Traditional Christians pray, honor, and worship the same risen Messiah of Nazareth.
Like many other nations, the U.S. and Israel overall have disobeyed and abandoned the Creator, worshipped nature and idols, practiced the occult, and follow religious ceremonies and the world, instead of Jesus Christ. Most people continue to deny Christ as G-d incarnate, the G-d man. Overall, the Jewish community at the time of the ministry of Jesus β hated and rejected Him as the Savior and Messiah, and they had the agenda to murder Jesus.
Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by G-d to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which G-d did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know.. Acts 2
"and the world new him not"
John 5 (later the world will know and accept the Anti-Christ).
..."If G-d were your Father, you would love me, I came from G-d." John 15, Hebrews 12
That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. John 5:21..
"For those who reject the Son reject also the Father; those who accept the Son have the Father also." 1 John 2
ΧΧ Χ©ΧΧΧΧ ΧΧͺ ΧΧΧ ΧΧΧΧ ΧΧ ΧΧͺ ΧΧΧ, ΧΧΧ Χ©ΧΧ§ΧΧ ΧΧͺ ΧΧΧ ΧΧ§ΧΧ ΧΧͺ ΧΧΧ
That all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. John 5
Jesus sent out the twelve apostles with these instructions: βDonβt go to the Gentiles or the Samaritans, but only to the people of IsraelβG-dβs lost sheep." Matthew 10
"But all this has taken place that the Scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilledβ Matthew 26
For David did not ascend to heaven, and yet he said,
ββThe Lord said to my Lord:
βSit at my right hand
until I make your enemies
a footstool for your feet.ββ
βTherefore let all Israel be assured of this: G-d has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah" [Mashiach].β Acts 2
Now He said to them, βThese are My words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things which are written about Me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilledβ Luke 24
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, βIf you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.β John 8
For you have heard of my former way of life in Judaism, how I used to persecute the church of G-d beyond measure and tried to destroy it; and I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries among my countrymen, being more extremely zealous for my ancestral traditions. But when He who had set me apart even from my motherβs womb and called me through His grace was pleased to reveal His Son in me so that I might preach Him among the Gentiles... Galatians 1
We are Jews by nature and not sinners from the Gentiles; nevertheless, knowing that a person is not justified by works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the Law; since by works of the Law no flesh will be justified. But if, while seeking to be justified in Christ, we ourselves have also been found sinners, is Christ then a servant of sin? Far from it! For if I rebuild what I have once destroyed, I prove myself to be a wrongdoer. For through the Law I died to the Law, so that I might live for G-d. I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of G-d, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. I do not nullify the grace of G-d, for if righteousness comes through the Law, then Christ died needlessly.β Galatians 2
You study the scriptures thoroughly because you think in them you possess eternal life, and it is these same scriptures that testify about me...
...If you believed Moses, you would believe me, because he wrote about me. But if you do not believe what Moses wrote, how will you believe my words? John 5
For all who are of works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written: βCursed is everyone who does not abide by all the things written in the book of the Law, to do them.β Now, that no one is justified by the Law before G-d is evident; for, βthe righteous one will live by faith.β However, the Law is not of faith; on the contrary, βThe person who performs them will live by them.β Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for usβfor it is written: βCursed is everyone who hangs on a treeββ in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham would come to the Gentiles, so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Galatians 3
But I have a greater witness than Johnβs; for the works which the Father has given Me to finishβthe very works that I doβbear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me. And the Father Himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form. But you do not have His word abiding in you, because whom He sent, Him you do not believe. You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life...
...βI do not receive honor from men. But I know you, that you do not have the love of G-d in you. I have come in My Fatherβs name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive. John 5
Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.
In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:
ββYou will be ever hearing but never understanding;
you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.
For this peopleβs heart has become calloused;
they hardly hear with their ears,
and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
hear with their ears,
understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.β
But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it. Matthew 13
For there is one G-d, and there is one mediator between G-d and men, the man Christ Jesus.. 1 Timothy 2
They answered and said to Him, βAbraham is our father.β
Jesus said to them, βIf you were Abrahamβs children, you would do the works of Abraham. But now you seek to kill Me, a Man who has told you the truth which I heard from G-d. Abraham did not do this. You do the deeds of your father.β
Then they said to Him, βWe were not born of fornication; we have one FatherβG-d.β
Jesus said to them, βIf G-d were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from G-d; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me. Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word. You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe Me. Which of you convicts Me of sin? And if I tell the truth, why do you not believe Me? He who is of G-d hears G-dβs words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of G-d.β John 8
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in G-d, believe also in me. John 14
The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works. John 14
And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.β John 14
Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father; the one who confesses the Son has the Father also.' John 14
βHowever, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of G-d dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.β Romans 8
For through Him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father. Ephesians 2
How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to G-d, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living G-d? Hebrews 9
According to the foreknowledge of G-d the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: may grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure. 1 Peter 1
The Jews answered Him, βWe are not stoning You for a good work, but for blasphemy; and because You, being a man, make Yourself out to be G-d.β John 10
"Most assuredly, I say to you, he who receives whomever I send receives Me; and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.β John 13
And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.β John 14
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Most Orthodox Jewish people, along with many Gentiles, are willing to take the risk with their souls and reject this Messiah (Savior - Jesus Christ).
John to the seven churches that are in Asia:
'Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth.
To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen.'
I am the Alpha and the Omega,β says the Lord G-d, βwho is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.β Revelation 1
Other church organizations issues
Jesus responds by correction and judgment on religions in Matthew 23, and on whoever preaches another Gospel in Galatians 1.
Jesus Criticizes the Religious Leaders
'Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, βThe teachers of religious law and the Pharisees are the official interpreters of the law of Moses. So practice and obey whatever they tell you, but donβt follow their example. For they donβt practice what they teach. They crush people with unbearable religious demands and never lift a finger to ease the burden. "Everything they do is for show. On their arms they wear extra wide prayer boxes with Scripture verses inside, and they wear robes with extra long tassels. And they love to sit at the head table at banquets and in the seats of honor in the synagogues. They love to receive respectful greetings as they walk in the marketplaces, and to be called βRabbi.β Matthew 23
Areas to improve on, learn from, and correct in our churches today, according to Jesus Christ, are in Revelations chapters 1-3. Read the letter to the Seven Churches and other Scripture.
"Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.β Revelation 1
Most Catholics believe in the primary core doctrines of the Bible and Christian faith. Orthodox Christianity, or non-denominations, do disagree and vigorously debate many interpretational errors, other secondary beliefs and claims, and issues of some Catholic dogma.
The Catholic Church claims they have post or extra biblical revelation (mostly through the Vatican Pope's) with titles of Supreme Pontiff or Sovereign Pontiff (Bishop of Rome), which, in their misguided perspective, carries equal weight with Old and New Testament Scripture. This is false and in error, as there is no need for more revelation of God's Word. It is concluded with the book of Revelations (Apocalypse).
The Catholic Church says they are the lineage of Peter just because they say so and because they claim him to be the first Pope (upon this Rock, taken out of context).
The Catholic revelation should also be considered rejected if it contradicts the Bible in any form.
Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you. Deuteronomy 4
For I testify unto every man that hears the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. Revelation 22
The Catholic Church makes it appear to billions of people worldwide, that the Pope is holy, sinless, and, in addition, infallible in teachings on matters of faith and morals. They also make it come across that the Pope can forgive people's sins.
Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are the only intercessor and Mediator between people and God the Father. Not the papacy, the priests, or Mary. No other person can claim this and share these attributes with Jesus Christ βHe is the only One that is holy, pre-existing, sinless, and infallible, in the position of fullness of the Deity and the Savior to forgive people's sins.
Catholic salvation is grace plus works through; baptism, penance and alms, along with going to purgatory for your sins, essentially saying... Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross was insufficient to redeem us from our sins, and for us to have assurance to enter the gates of heaven, and denying numerous Bible passages on this central issue.
Catholic veneration vs. worship
Mary, angels and saints:
There should be great respect and honor to the Virgin Mary (like the prophets and apostles), but the line is crossed, and is in error, when indeed it becomes worship and prayer to a person other than the God incarnate Jesus Christ. This applies to angels or the saints, including Peter (the Catholic Church claims to be the "first Pope") and the other apostles they might pray to.
According to the Bible, veneration is no longer reverence, honor and respect for a person, but indeed worship, despite what the Catholic Church dogma teaches β If we fall at someone's feet and pray to Mary, saints, angels, a man or statue images.
Our prayer, worship and glory is to be communicated and directed to the Creator and Savior, and not to a sinful mortal man or a woman, and people that have died. Mary was the mother of Jesus Christ in this special appointed role, this doesn't make her 'Mother of God', 'Our Lady' and 'Mother of the Church,' as the Catholic Church teaches. She is also not 'Queen of Heaven.' These titles make it appear as if Jesus Christ just came into existence through Mary and she is somehow the Queen. Additionally, this gives her the glory, honor and praise, only the Creator and Savior of the world deserves. Mary is in no way close to equal or a higher position than Christ, she was a created being like all of us.
In contrast, Christ has always existed with the Father (as the Son of God), and He is Creator and Savior, and we should not diminish these character attributes and core important doctrine of Scripture. Christ is the King, there is no "Queen" mentioned in the Bible, unless you assume and place it into the text interpretation and listen to Catholic theology on the topic.
Catholic church idolatry:
Idolatry in many areas of church dogma β Mary, Peter, saints, angels, statues, the Pope, transubstantiation Eucharist (communion), kissing of statue feet, and the cross...
Many Catholics may attempt to justify these actions by saying it's defined as veneration. Which in some rare instances it may be, but for many it's not the case, its actually prayer and worship. Its important to refrain from the practice of prayer or kneeling to anything the Lord created, or man has built, the Scriptures would label as idolatry, false gods and sin. In addition, the Catholic Church again justifies their idols with the Catholic Catechism: In the Bible, listing the Ten Commandments, Exodus chapter 20 verse 4, regarding idols, is skipped and intentionally taken out of the Catholic Church Catechism list of the Ten Commandments. Instead, they split the 10th commandment into two, to still make it appear to still be 10, so that it doesn't end with nine. By doing this maneuver, now the Catholic Church justifies the idols they have in their church, and release their wrongdoing and sins in these unrighteous actions.
The Catholic Church statues and images, are strictly forbidden in the Bible. They continue to use, justify and permit this in their churches and personal lives. Reminder to our Catholic friends, your church Catechism, which is correct on this passage, and more importantly, what Scripture says on this topic:
Part 3 section 2;
Adoring God, praying to Him, offering Him the worship, giving Christ the glory, honor and praise that belongs to Him ALONE, fulfilling the promises and vows made to him are acts of the virtue of religion which fall under obedience to the first commandment.
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"You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve" Matthew 4
'You shall not make for yourselves idols, nor shall you set up for yourselves an image or a sacred pillar, nor shall you place a figured stone in your land to bow down to it; for I am the Lord your God'. Leviticus 20
When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. But Peter lifted him up, saying, βStand up; I too am a man.β Acts 10
Little children, keep yourselves from idols. 1 John 5
And the angel said to me, βWrite this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.β And he added, βThese are true words that come from God.β
Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, βYou must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God.β For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. Revelation 19
I, John, am the one who heard and saw all these things. And when I heard and saw them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who showed them to me. But he said, βNo, donβt worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers the prophets, as well as all who obey what is written in this book. Worship only God!β Revelation 22
Do not make any gods to be alongside me; do not make for yourselves gods of silver or gods of gold. Exodus 20 [statues in the church and at home]
And call on me in the day of trouble;. I will deliver you, and you will honor me. Psalm 50 [don't call on Mary, saints or angels].
This, then, is how you should pray:
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name... Matthew 6 [pray to the Father].
For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.. 1 Timothy 2 [Mary, or the church Priest is not the second or third mediator].
Catholic Holy Communion - Eucharist Transubstantiation:
During a Catholic Mass (service), after the alter message, the Priest or Bishop gives what the church calls "Holy Communion." This is a Mass focused primarily on the Eucharist (host bread) which is given to church attendees, and followed up with the Chalice cup of wine.
Catholic doctrine of Transubstantiation is described as the Eucharist bread and wine substance becoming the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. This occurs during the element consecration by a priest with the eucharistic prayer and blessing, which the Catholic Church defines as the Holy Communion. The Catholic Church takes the Scripture verses literally on the blood and body of Christ, when it's indeed, clearly, symbolism.
Several surveys show that up to 65% of professing Catholics believe the bread and wine at the Eucharist Mass are not the blood and body of Jesus Christ, but instead symbols of the body and blood of His sacrifice, which is actually correct β in remembrance of what Christ did for us. This majority is accurate on this point.
Sins and Holy Communion:
The position of the Catholic church β Eucharist, should not be denied except for a serious purpose: βThose who obstinately persist in manifest grave sin are not to be admitted to Holy Communion.β and; βSacred ministers cannot deny the sacraments to those who seek them at appropriate times, are properly disposed, and are not prohibited by law from receiving them.β
However, it appears, most Catholics are unaware of this important doctrinal statement if you ask them, or they easily overlook this. Most Catholic Mass services, the priest does not voice this in the Eucharist message nearly enough.
Scripture warns of the consequences of eating and drinking it, in an unworthy manner. Especially if the person is not genuinely a Christian, (pretending to be one), and only being religious to cover over guilt. However, many continue to receive communion, when maybe at times they should wait or repent to the Lord first, straight through Jesus as the Mediator.
" Therefore, whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink from the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lordβs body. For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep". 1 Corinthians 11
Confession of sins to a Priest:
There is no need to confess our sins to a priest and to do church Sacrament of Penance. The Scripture says Jesus Christ is our Mediator, and we may go directly to Him with prayer (conversation) for repentance, forgiveness, intercession, comfort, peace, and guidance of God the Father.
First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of youβ¦β Romans 1
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. Matthew 6:9 (This is not meant to be a word-for-word repetition prayer. Our prayer may look like: Father God, I ask for your will and plan for my life, I pray for my temptation and sin...). Prayer is from the heart and mind and doesn't require to be eloquent words.
But when you pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things you have need of, before you ask him. Matthew 6
Being saved by water baptism:
Some denominations and church members may believe Eucharist, infant water baptism or christening service, will free them from the original sin they were born with. This practice, for many, may later give them, as a teen or adult, a false sense of security in salvation and assurance that they will go to heaven. This is a dangerous position to think you are saved and born again on this notion, and later in the afterlife find yourself in hell, due to following ceremonies. (note: being "Born again" is not a cult sect. It is a person having a new spiritual life in Jesus and placing the old life behind you. Not an idea of some sort of physical rebirth in any way, as well).
In addition, infant baptism may give you a mindset later in life, you have Jesus, you're saved, and there's no need to read the Bible deeply, and as a result, some Catholics might veer away from the moral accountability it will provide.
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"For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus". 1 Timothy 2
As scripture says, Christ and the Father are One.. "I and My Father are one.β John 10
He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, βShow us the Fatherβ? John 14
Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Romans 8
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3
In that day you will ask in my name, and I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf;.. John 16
But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. Matthew 6
Good News for Catholics:
Jesus Christ is the God-man, a lot of Catholics miss this very important point,.. "Immanuel" God with us. Additionally, there's too much emphasis on the "baby Jesus" and they often miss the point of the essence of Jesus Christ, His power, omniscience, co-eternal and co-existence with the Father.
In the beginning [before all time] was the Word [Christ], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself. He was [continually existing] in the beginning [co-eternally] with God. All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him not even one thing was made that has come into being. John 1 {amp}
For in Him (Christ) dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2
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Overall, most Catholic churches do not encourage parishioners (attendees) to read and deeply study the Bible, but instead only follow what the priest says weekly. The church additionally, does not encourage prayer 110% to only Jesus Christ, but to many other idols, like Mary, Saints, and Angels.
If you are to remain in Catholicism instead of another Christian church, pursue the Charismatic Catholic Bible studies and events, if offered, or start home Bible study groups. Additionally, get the meat of the Gospel from deep and extensive reading, study and research of Scripture daily, on your own.
Last, but not least, pray and kneel only to the Lord, and no other Bible character, entity, saint, angel or image. Like Jesus said, 'Come, follow Me." Most importantly, make sure you are saved by the gift of His salvation, not by Christening, baptism in water, good works, attending church, communion, penance or being a religious person. Read Luke 18
The Catholic Church is partly responsible for many areas of skepticism, doubts and unbelief for unbelievers not wanting to follow Jesus Christ and the Scriptures. Due to Catholic religiosity, idols, images, rituals, praying to Mary, saints, and angels. This gives them an easy and legitimate argument against Christianity, Jesus and the Bible.
Most cults point these topics and issues out about the Catholic Church and use this representation as a tool against all other Christian denominations as a whole with a broad brush. The cults may generally say, this is why their beliefs (Islam, Mormons, etc.) is the path to choose.
The cults are distorting and re-defining Jesus Christ, His death, the resurrection and many other central doctrines of the Bible. The cults often use the same name or term, but they actually have another Jesus, and a counterfeit Gospel.
This is one reason of many, why it's important to have a relationship with and follow only Jesus Christ and the inspired by the Holy Spirit Scriptures, not following the Pope and church. Man-made philosophies and religions are frequently idolatry, deception and distractions, pulling us away, distracting from the true and genuine relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, God incarnate.
Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?βunless indeed you fail to meet the test! 2 Corinthians 13
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Additional Bible references:
Philippians 4:6
1 Timothy 2:5
1 John 2:2
2 Corinthians 5:8
Hebrews 7:26
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Methodism, also called the Methodist movement originated around 1738 of Charles Wesley, John Wesley and George Whitefield as a member of the Anglican Church of England. The Methodism religion was established on a methodical and ordered lifestyle pattern. There are many sects within the church from when it was started, and latest one building with the name "Traditional Methodist" due to the topic and culture issue of some gay ministers (a few drag queens), gay βmarriageβ and LGBTQIA+.
This denominational divide over the gay "marriage" agenda is necessary and biblical. This may be a split in the Methodist denomination, which might make it not so βunitedβ any longer.
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The Seventh-day Adventist Church was formed from an Adventist group which originated from an offshoot of the former Millerites religious sect and the teachings of William Miller in 1831. This movement was called the Second Advent of Jesus Christ (The Second Coming, or return of Jesus). It was predicted by the Millerites this event would occur on October 22, 1844, during what was named the Second Great Awakening (Revival), which inspired other reform movements. In addition, the Methodist Church had some level of involvement with these revivals. Later, the teachings and doctrine spread in to what is known as the 'Great Disappointment', due to the false prophecy of Christ retuning in 1844, not being fulfilled.
In 1863, Ellen G. White was an author and the co-founder of Seventh-day Adventist Church, along with her husband co-founder and preacher Joseph White and other Adventist leaders like Joseph Bates. Ellen claimed to have had over a couple thousand dreams and visions from God in private and public groups and meetings over her lifetime. Some of these were prophecies that didn't come to pass, like the one of her being alive, at Jesus' return.
Most Adventists believe in the primary core doctrines of the Bible and Christian faith. Christians in other denominations debate certain other secondary beliefs and issues with Adventist's, that are of great importance.
The Seventh-day Adventist Doctrinal Error
Some, but not all Adventists disagree with the virgin birth and bodily physical resurrection. This is a concern, as it's against the core beliefs of Scripture and Christianity.
Sabbatarianism: Many Christian Seventh-day Adventists believe worship on Sunday is to take the "Mark of the Beast." This church denomination believes that the Sabbath should be practiced on Saturday, in accordance with the Commandment of God, that forbids work on the Holy Sabbath.
And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holy day, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Colossians 2
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