Consider what Luke wrote in Acts 17:10-11 (KJV). "And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." Since the Bereans checked out the teachings of the Apostle Paul, who wrote much of the New Testament, we must likewise challenge the beliefs of others.
How I wish somebody mentored me when I gave my life to Christ in 1969. Had I known how to discern biblical teaching from poisonous doctrines, I would never have joined a cultic house church a few years later. I would never have swallowed the blasphemous lies told by its lay minister. Knowing how to discern truth from error would have saved me from several decades filled with frustration and anger.
This is why I felt so strong about the vital need for discernment that I wrote my memoir of those days. How I Was Razed: A Journey from Cultism to Christianity walks readers through the wilderness of chiding which I suffered because my eyes never were healed. It shows how cruel those elders were in their criticism of my supposedly-insufficient faith. My testimony also demonstrates how the heavenly Father deprogrammed me of all the lies and misapprehensions I collected during those cultic years. I'm so much happier now that I know the true nature of the Trinity and how to read the Bible.
Additionally, I want to warn as many pastors as possible about neglecting the discipleship of new believers. I heard recently on The Bible Answer Man how Robert in Calgary had nobody who would answer his questions. The attendees at his church were too busy with their own concerns. He finally called Hank Hanegraaff's show for help. As far as I know, Robert was paired up with a mature believer who would assist him with his quest for the truth. May we all be open to mentoring new Christians as Christ has commanded us to do.
Twitter handle = ve6xtc
Thanks Bruce,
ReplyDeleteReminds me of one of my Bible teachers who said, the best way to see if a plank is crooked is to place it beside a straight piece of wood.
I so agree with you, Bruce, in your declaration that any new teaching you will check out in the Bible and also to pray and search your heart to discern what is of God and what is of men.
ReplyDeleteSupporting young Christians in their walk with God is also important. Paul set us a good example of how to encourage those who are new in the faith.
Great reminder, Bruce. New believers are like little babes - eager to soak up information like a sponge. They are most vulnerable at this stage. I've read your book, and it's a powerful testimony about the need for strong, accurate discipleship. May we all we willing to reach out to believers who need a mentor.
ReplyDeleteThank you Bruce. Discipling new Christians seems to be one of the challenges of the 'modern' church.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Bruce for a timely warning. The wonderful thing is, with your experience, the Lords help, and technology, you can reach those who are still struggling in a cult. God's timing is always perfect.
ReplyDeleteGood word, Bruce. We should always go back to the Word and weigh a message against it. Taking time for new Christians is a challenge for many churches. As I take a group of young people to a youth conference this weekend, it is a good reminder to me to follow up with them afterward. Not all of them are living for God.Although I expect each one of them to be touched by the Lord through this conference, your post reminded me that I have to be prayerful about follow-up afterward.
ReplyDeleteYour post is dead-on, Bruce. I've been thinking for some time that your book sounds like an excellent read and today I'm going to order a copy!
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