"To Whom It May Concern" (February 13, 2013)

     Many letters are addressed this way, especially when the recipient is not clearly identified. On the other hand, it is addressed this way in hope that a real person (or persons) may read and consider its contents. James in the new Testament writes a "general epistle" because it was originally addressed to a wider audience than a local church. I don’t mean to imply I am writing to scattered sheep, but I do feel a burden for the people of God. 

    In my opinion the body of Christ is quite scattered and separated, but not so much by distance, gender or race. What divides believers is wrong doctrine and theological persuasion not inspired by the Holy Spirit. This persuasion comes not from God, but from the ideas of men whom have been influenced more by politically correct jargon than by the written word of God.

     Jesus taught that anyone who would follow Him, would set himself contrary to the philosophies of this world. These ideologies, tainted by the influence of demonic influence, would infiltrate the church in order to corrupt the gospel and deceive believers. Deception is the devil’s game. If men reject the love of the truth, the only alternative is delusion. It seems church leaders have forgotten the very words of Jesus who said "I will build my church." And so they go on building and forever organizing their church-growth conventions. Men are forever trying to help God out like Abraham who brought forth Ismael, who represents the Arab people with all its peculiar needs. Anything brought forth by the flesh always causes problems. "Except the Lord built the house, they labor in vain that build it." (Psalms 127:1)

     My prayer is that men would get out of the way and let the Holy Spirit build and prepare the church (the bride) of Christ like in the story of Eliezer (a type of the Holy Spirit). Finding a wife for Isaac (a type of Christ) sent by the father (represented by Abraham). How did the early church get started? "And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved" (Acts 2:46-47). Does this scripture describe the modern "seeker friendly" and "user friendly" church?

     The early church seemed to be more concerned with being, rather than doing! The modern church is more concerned with methods and programs instead of practicing the presence of God. Without conviction there is little fear of God, therefore no holiness and separation from the world. "Without holiness no man will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14). Are you truly living for the Lord and applying His word to your life? Are you being changed? Transformed? Or are you happy just being contemporary? Going along just to get along?

To Whom It May Concern,
~ Pastor John