Some use Jesus’ name, but present a false Christ.
“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.” (2 Corinthians 11:13-14 KJV)
I dream of a church that knows its Bible so well that false prophets make no headway.
Galatianism
Paul went to Jerusalem to consult with the other Apostles about Galatian legalism.
“We went there because of those who pretended to be followers and had sneaked in among us as spies. They had come to take away the freedom that Christ Jesus had given us, and they were trying to make us their slaves.” (Galatians 2:4 CEV)
I dream of a church that follows the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles and not the letter of the law or religious rules made up by men.
Foundation
Upon what is the church built?
“... built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone” (Ephesians 2:20 ESV).
It is for that reason that Protestants use the term sola scriptura, the scriptures alone. I dream of a church that has as its sole foundation the New and Old Testaments, and the four Gospels as the cornerstone.
Unity
Church unity is not found in uniform doctrines or practices, although there is remarkable unity in what is really essential. The Holy Spirit has made sure of that.
“Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” (Ephesians 4:3-6 KJV)
How is unity even possible considering disagreements over doctrine. It is found in the bond of peace not twigs of doctrine. I dream of a church at peace with all Christians who believe the essentials taught by Jesus and the Apostles. I dream of a church that is gracious about non-essentials that neither Jesus nor the Apostles commanded.
Husbands and Wives
There is a very misunderstood point in today’s culture, but it is taught in the Bible several times (Ephesians 5:22, 24; Colossians 3:18; 1 Peter 3:1-6). Wives submit does not mean becoming doormats or allowing a man to abuse you. Absolutely not! What it means is to be a team player, supportive, encouraging, not someone who constantly undermines her man. Men, this is addressed to women, not you. It is and must be her choice, not coerced by a domineering husband.
“A husband is the head of his wife like Christ is head of the church, that is, the savior of the body.” (Ephesians 5:23 CEB)
Who is the head? How is this headship expressed? Proper headship is exemplified by “submitting to one another in the fear of God.” (Ephesians 5:21 NKJV) Does Jesus submit to the needs of His Bride, the church?
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her” (vs 25 NASB). “Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.” (1 Peter 3:7 NKJV)
I dream of a church where husbands and wives have abandoned the deceptive marital advice of a world where half of marriages fail, and devoted themselves to trusting that God knows best.
