We Still Believe...

I have been greatly disturbed by recent trends in the Church. For many years now the so-called "mainline" denominations have turned their backs on Biblical principles and traditional morality. A tide of evil has swept through the Church and has forced many to draw a line in the sand and take a stand. Many are leaving the church and many more say the church has left them.

I just read an article about the continued support of abortion by many denominations including The Episcopal Church USA, The Presbyterian Church USA, The United Methodist Church, The United Church of Christ, The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, etc. I also read an article on the ordination of another gay bishop in the ECUSA.

There are those inside of these churches who are taking a stand. Recently the Diocese of South Carolina (ECUSA) took a stand against the tide during the diocesan convention. The Confessing Movement in the UMC are doing the same. But will they be able to prevail? One would like to think so but history has shown that sometimes a clean break is needed to bring reform. Remember Martin Luther? He tried reform internally but eventually it would take a break to reform the Church.

I have labored inside of the UMC with hopes that change would come. It did, but not for the better. My wife and I finally decided that enough was enough. We left and we have now launched a mission with a few other brave souls to reach those whom the church has left. Our small group still believes!

We still believe that Jesus Christ is Lord! That means He is the Lord of our lives and the Lord of the Church. That means He sets the rules and He sets the agenda.

We still believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God! The words contained in this Holy Book are not fables, myths, or mere suggestions. We believe that God's Word is the standard for the Church and our lives.

We still believe that our clergy should meet high moral standards and follow explicitly the commands of Holy Writ. Humans do not have the authority to circumvent the clear commands of Scripture. Our clergy should be our example, not our shame.

We still believe that marriage is between one man and one woman. Why? Because that is what the Bible and the tradition of the Church says.

We still believe that every human being is created in the image of God. Therefore, every life is precious and should be afforded the sanctity that God intended. Unborn children have the same right to life that you and I have.

We still believe that there is no salvation outside of the Church. Christ and the Apostles made it clear that salvation is not a private affair, but a communal life. We are not to forsake the gathering together of ourselves. Those who profess Christianity outside of the Church deceive themselves.

It is our job as faithful Christians to be witnesses to the Truth. We know that Jesus Christ is Truth. During this Christmas season I encourage each of you to be faithful witnesses to the Truth that is the incarnate Son of God.