Wisdom and Purity in the Modern Church: Navigating the Serpentine World

The phrase “be wise as serpents and harmless as doves” is derived from the Gospel of Matthew 10:16, where Jesus instructs his disciples on their mission to preach the gospel. This powerful and evocative phrase has become a cornerstone of Christian wisdom, urging believers to be shrewd in discernment and yet gentle in their interactions with others. In today’s world, where the church faces numerous challenges, this advice is more relevant than ever.

The contemporary church is grappling with a myriad of issues, ranging from corruption to the influence of secular ideologies, and the dilution of core Christian doctrines. In this article, we will delve into the modern challenges faced by the church, focusing on the following topics: corruption within the church, the influence of the contemporary Christian music (CCM) industry, the promotion of the LGBTQ agenda by Christian artists, the problematic practices of Bethel Church, Christian tarot cards, Christian yoga, the Passion Bible, extra-biblical doctrines, the gap theory, prosperity gospel, Judeo-Christian influence, and the importance of staying on the straight and narrow path.

Corruption in the Modern Church

The church has always been vulnerable to corruption, as the institution’s vast resources and influence make it an attractive target for those seeking power and wealth. Unfortunately, corruption has seeped into the modern church, with numerous cases of financial misconduct, sexual abuse, and other scandals coming to light in recent years. This has eroded the public’s trust in the church, and many believers have become disillusioned with organized religion as a result.

One of the most high-profile cases of corruption in the modern church is the sexual abuse scandal that has rocked the Catholic Church. Numerous priests have been accused of sexually abusing minors, and the church’s leadership has been criticized for covering up these crimes and failing to hold the perpetrators accountable. This scandal has caused many Catholics to question the legitimacy of their church’s teachings and has led to a decline in the number of people attending mass.

Another example of corruption in the church is the financial mismanagement and fraud that has plagued some megachurches. These institutions have amassed vast sums of money through donations and tithes, but some have been accused of misusing these funds for personal gain. This has led to numerous lawsuits and criminal investigations, further tarnishing the reputation of the church.

 

The CCM Industry and the LGBTQ Push

The contemporary Christian music (CCM) industry has become a powerful force in the modern church, with many popular artists drawing large audiences and amassing significant wealth. However, this industry has also been criticized for promoting secular values and agendas, including the normalization of the LGBTQ lifestyle.

Several high-profile Christian artists have openly endorsed the LGBTQ movement, advocating for the acceptance of homosexuality and other non-traditional lifestyles. This has caused concern among many believers, who view these lifestyles as incompatible with biblical teachings. The promotion of these agendas within the CCM industry has led to a growing divide within the church, as many Christians struggle to reconcile their faith with the messages being promoted by their favorite artists.

 

Bethel Church and Problematic Practices

Bethel Church, based in Redding, California, has become one of the most influential and controversial churches in the modern era. Known for its charismatic worship services and emphasis on supernatural experiences, Bethel has attracted a large following, particularly among young people. However, the church has also been criticized for promoting practices that some consider unorthodox or even heretical.

One of the most contentious practices associated with Bethel Church is the use of “Christian tarot cards.” These cards are intended to serve as a divination tool, allowing users to gain insight into their spiritual lives through a process similar to that used in traditional tarot readings. Critics argue that this practice is not only un-Christian but also potentially dangerous, as it could lead believers to rely on external sources for guidance rather than trusting in God.

Another problematic practice associated with Bethel Church is the promotion of “Christian yoga.” This form of yoga is designed to incorporate Christian teachings and symbolism, but critics argue that it is fundamentally incompatible with the core principles of yoga, which are rooted in Hinduism. They contend that the blending of these two belief systems is not only disrespectful to both traditions but also potentially misleading for those seeking spiritual guidance.

Bethel Church, along with other churches that promote spiritualism, witchcraft, praying to spirits, divination, and other non-Christian influences, is a cause for concern among many believers. These practices are not only warned against in the Bible but are also in direct opposition to the core principles of the Christian faith.

One of the primary issues with these practices is that they involve seeking guidance and power from sources other than God. This is a clear violation of the first commandment, which states, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3, KJV). By seeking guidance from spirits and other non-Christian sources, believers are placing their trust in powers that are not of God and may lead them astray.

Another issue with these practices is that they involve engaging in activities that are explicitly warned against in the Bible. For example, the practice of divination, or seeking to gain knowledge about the future through supernatural means, is warned against in Leviticus 19:26, which states, “Ye shall not eat anything with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times” (KJV). Similarly, the practice of communicating with spirits is warned against in Leviticus 19:31, which states, “Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God” (KJV).

The use of non-Christian symbols and practices in worship is another issue that has been raised in relation to churches like Bethel. For example, some churches have incorporated symbols and practices associated with witchcraft, such as the use of crystals, candles, and incense, into their worship services. This is problematic, as it blurs the lines between Christianity and other religions and may lead believers to embrace teachings and practices that are not in line with the core principles of Christianity.

The Bible warns against engaging in practices that are associated with other religions, particularly those that involve the worship of false gods or the use of supernatural powers. For example, Deuteronomy 18:9-14 states, “When thou art come into the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the Lord: and because of these abominations the Lord thy God doth drive them out from before thee. Thou shalt be perfect with the Lord thy God. For these nations, which thou shalt possess, hearkened unto observers of times, and unto diviners: but as for thee, the Lord thy God hath not suffered thee so to do” (KJV).

This passage highlights the importance of remaining faithful to the true teachings of the Bible and resisting the influence of those who would seek to distort or pervert its message. Believers should be discerning in their approach to incorporating elements of other religions and practices into their faith, ensuring that they do not compromise the core principles of Christianity or lead others astray.

The practices of spiritualism, witchcraft, praying to spirits, divination, and other non-Christian influences that are allowed in churches like Bethel are a cause for concern among many believers. These practices are not only warned against in the Bible but are also in direct opposition to the core principles of the Christian faith. Believers should be discerning in their approach to incorporating elements of other religions and practices into their faith, ensuring that they do not compromise the core principles of Christianity or lead others astray.

 

The Passion Bible and Extra-Biblical Doctrines

The Passion Bible is a modern translation of the Bible that has gained popularity among many young Christians. Created by pastor Louie Giglio, the Passion Bible is designed to be more accessible and engaging than traditional translations, with a focus on inspiring readers to live out their faith in a passionate and authentic manner.

While the Passion Bible has undoubtedly resonated with many believers, it has also been criticized for promoting extra-biblical doctrines and interpretations. Some scholars argue that the translation takes liberties with the original text, introducing ideas and concepts that are not supported by the biblical source material. This has led to concerns that the Passion Bible may be leading believers astray, promoting teachings that are not in line with the core principles of Christianity.

The Passion Translation (TPT) is a modern translation of the Bible that has gained popularity among many young Christians. Created by pastor and author Brian Simmons, the TPT is designed to be more accessible and engaging than traditional translations, with a focus on inspiring readers to live out their faith in a passionate and authentic manner. However, the TPT has also been met with criticism and controversy, particularly surrounding its origins and the claims made by its author. 

Brian Simmons, the writer of the Passion Translation, has claimed that he received secret books from heaven, which he used as a basis for some of the content in his translation. He has also stated that he was given a divine mandate to create a new translation of the Bible that would be more faithful to the original meaning of the text. These claims have raised concerns among many believers, who argue that they are not supported by the Bible and may lead readers astray.

One of the primary criticisms of the Passion Translation is that it deviates significantly from the original text of the Bible, introducing new ideas and interpretations that are not supported by the source material. This is problematic, as it can lead believers to embrace teachings that are not in line with the core principles of Christianity and may even contradict the Bible’s teachings.

 The Bible itself warns against adding to or taking away from its teachings. In the book of Revelation, it states, “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll” (Revelation 22:18-19, NIV).

This passage highlights the importance of preserving the integrity of the Bible’s teachings and the dangers of introducing new interpretations or ideas that are not supported by the original text. By adding to or altering the Bible’s teachings, translators risk leading believers astray and potentially causing spiritual harm.

There are several examples of fake translations or additions to the Bible that have been introduced throughout history, often with the intention of promoting a particular agenda or ideology. One well-known example is the Gospel of Thomas, a collection of sayings attributed to Jesus that was discovered in the 20th century. While some scholars argue that the Gospel of Thomas may contain authentic teachings of Jesus, others contend that it is a Gnostic text that promotes a heretical understanding of Christianity.

Another example is the Book of Enoch, an apocryphal text that was not included in the canonical Bible. The Book of Enoch contains a series of stories and teachings that are not supported by the Bible, and it has been criticized for promoting a distorted view of God and his relationship with humanity.

The Passion Translation and other similar translations that introduce new ideas or interpretations not supported by the original text of the Bible are problematic for believers. By deviating from the source material, these translations risk leading readers astray and promoting teachings that are not in line with the core principles of Christianity. It is essential for believers to be discerning in their choice of Bible translations and to seek guidance from trusted spiritual mentors and scholars to ensure that they are receiving an accurate and faithful representation of God’s word.

The Gap Theory and the Prosperity Gospel

The gap theory is an interpretation of the biblical creation story that posits a significant gap of time between the initial creation of the universe and the creation of Adam and Eve. This theory has been used to reconcile the apparent discrepancies between the biblical account of creation and the scientific evidence for the age of the universe.

While the gap theory has its proponents, it has also been criticized by many theologians and scholars, who argue that it is not supported by the biblical text and may lead believers to embrace a distorted view of God’s creation. Additionally, some contend that the gap theory undermines the doctrine of original sin, as it suggests that the fall of humanity may have occurred long before the creation of Adam and Eve.

The Gap theory is a false theological concept that posits the existence of a gap or period of time between the first two verses of the Bible, Genesis 1:1 and 1:2. Proponents of the Gap theory argue that this gap represents a period of time during which a pre-Adamic race existed, which was ruled by Satan and ultimately destroyed by God. This theory is often used to reconcile the apparent discrepancy between the Bible’s account of creation and scientific theories about the age of the earth.

However, the Gap theory is not scripturally supported in any way and is widely regarded as a wind of doctrine that has no basis in the Bible. One of the primary issues with the Gap theory is that it relies on the assumption that there is a gap or period of time between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2 that is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. This assumption is not supported by the text itself, which presents a straightforward account of creation without any indication of a gap or period of time between the verses.

Another issue with the Gap theory is that it relies on the interpretation of ambiguous or unclear passages of Scripture to support its claims. For example, some proponents of the Gap theory argue that the phrase “the earth was without form and void” in Genesis 1:2 refers to a state of chaos or destruction that resulted from the destruction of the pre-Adamic race. However, this interpretation is not supported by the text itself, which simply describes the state of the earth before God began the process of creation.

The Gap theory also raises a number of theological and philosophical problems. For example, the idea that there was a pre-Adamic race that was ruled by Satan and ultimately destroyed by God raises questions about the nature of sin and redemption. If there was a race of beings that existed before Adam and Eve, what was their relationship to God, and how did they fall into sin? Similarly, if they were destroyed by God, what does this say about God’s justice and mercy?

Finally, the Gap theory is often associated with strange and fanciful theories about the pre-Adamic race, including the idea that they were a race of dinosaur people or that they were responsible for the fossils and geological formations that are found on the earth today. These theories have no basis in the Bible and are not supported by scientific evidence.

The Gap theory is a wind of doctrine that is not scripturally supported in any way and raises a number of theological and philosophical problems. Believers should be discerning in their approach to teachings about creation and the age of the earth, ensuring that they do not compromise the core principles of Christianity or lead others astray. Instead, they should focus on the clear and straightforward teachings of the Bible about creation and the nature of God’s relationship with humanity.

The prosperity gospel is another doctrine that has gained significant traction in the modern church, particularly in the United States. This teaching asserts that financial prosperity and material abundance are signs of God’s favor and that believers can attain these blessings through faith, prayer, and positive thinking.

Critics argue that the prosperity gospel is not only theologically unsound but also potentially harmful, as it encourages believers to focus on material wealth rather than spiritual growth and service to others. Moreover, the prosperity gospel has been linked to numerous financial scandals and instances of fraud, as some preachers have used it to exploit their followers for personal gain.

The Prosperity Gospel is a popular teaching that emphasizes the idea that God wants believers to be financially prosperous and that faith and obedience can lead to material wealth. While it is true that God does want His people to prosper, the Prosperity Gospel is not strictly scriptural, as it often distorts the true message of the Gospel and fosters a culture of greed and materialism within the church.

One of the primary issues with the Prosperity Gospel is that it places an undue emphasis on material wealth and prosperity. While it is true that God does bless His people with material possessions, the Bible teaches that these blessings are not an end in themselves but are meant to be used for the glory of God and the benefit of others. For example, in 1 Timothy 6:17-19, the Apostle Paul writes, “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life” (NIV).

This passage highlights the importance of using material wealth for the glory of God and the benefit of others, rather than seeking it for its own sake. The Prosperity Gospel often distorts this message, promoting the idea that material wealth is a sign of God’s favor and blessing, rather than a means to serve Him and others.

Another issue with the Prosperity Gospel is that it often promotes a distorted view of faith and obedience. Some proponents of the Prosperity Gospel argue that faith and obedience are the keys to unlocking God’s blessings, suggesting that believers can “name and claim” their blessings by speaking them into existence. This is not supported by the Bible, which teaches that faith and obedience are not a means to manipulate God but are a response to His grace and mercy.

For example, in Ephesians 2:8-9, the Apostle Paul writes, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast” (NIV). This passage highlights the importance of grace in salvation and warns against the idea that faith and obedience are a means to earn God’s blessings.

The Prosperity Gospel also fosters a culture of greed and materialism within the church, promoting the idea that material wealth is a sign of God’s favor and blessing. This can lead to a focus on material possessions rather than spiritual growth and service to others, which are the true markers of God’s blessing.

While it is true that God does want His people to prosper, the Prosperity Gospel is not strictly scriptural, as it often distorts the true message of the Gospel and fosters a culture of greed and materialism within the church. Believers should be discerning in their approach to teachings about prosperity and wealth, ensuring that they do not compromise the core principles of Christianity or lead others astray. Instead, they should focus on using material wealth for the glory of God and the benefit of others, as the Bible teaches.

 

Judeo-Christian Influence in the Church

The term “Judeo-Christian” is often used to describe the shared values and principles that underpin both Judaism and Christianity. While there is undoubtedly much overlap between these two faiths, some argue that the use of the term “Judeo-Christian” in the context of the modern church is problematic.

Critics contend that the emphasis on the shared aspects of Judaism and Christianity obscures the significant differences between the two religions and may lead to a misunderstanding of their unique theological perspectives. Moreover, some argue that the use of the term “Judeo-Christian” may serve to marginalize other religious traditions, particularly those that are not based on the Abrahamic faiths.

The influence of Jewish religion, mysticism, and culture on modern churches is a complex and multifaceted issue, with various aspects that warrant examination. While Christianity and Judaism share common roots, there are significant differences in their beliefs and practices, and it is essential for believers to be discerning in their approach to incorporating elements of Jewish culture and mysticism into their faith.

One of the most significant areas of concern is the influence of the prosperity gospel, which promotes the idea that God wants believers to be financially prosperous and that faith and obedience can lead to material wealth. This teaching has been criticized for distorting the true message of the Gospel and fostering a culture of greed and materialism within the church.

The prosperity gospel has been linked to the teachings of some Jewish mystics, particularly those associated with the Kabbalah, a form of Jewish mysticism that emphasizes the hidden, esoteric aspects of the Torah. Some proponents of the prosperity gospel have drawn on Kabbalistic teachings to support their beliefs, arguing that these teachings offer a deeper understanding of the relationship between faith, obedience, and material wealth.

The influence of Jewish mysticism can also be seen in the proliferation of made-up teachings and doctrines that have no basis in the Bible. For example, some churches have incorporated teachings from the Book of Enoch or the Zohar, a collection of medieval Jewish mystical texts. These teachings often promote a distorted view of God and his relationship with humanity, introducing ideas and concepts that are not supported by the Bible.

Another area of concern is the influence of Jewish culture and tradition on the worship practices of modern churches. Some churches have adopted elements of Jewish liturgy and worship, such as the use of prayer shawls, the blowing of the shofar, and the observance of Jewish holidays. While these practices may be harmless in themselves, they can lead to confusion and misunderstanding among believers, particularly when they are not accompanied by a clear understanding of the theological differences between Judaism and Christianity.

The New Testament warns against the influence of Judaizers, who sought to impose Jewish customs and practices on Gentile Christians. In the book of Galatians, the Apostle Paul writes, “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ” (Galatians 1:6-7, NIV).

This passage highlights the importance of remaining faithful to the true teachings of the Gospel and resisting the influence of those who would seek to distort or pervert its message. Believers should be discerning in their approach to incorporating elements of Jewish culture and mysticism into their faith, ensuring that they do not compromise the core principles of Christianity or lead others astray.

The influence of Jewish religion, mysticism, and culture on modern churches is a complex and multifaceted issue, with various aspects that warrant examination. While there are some positive aspects of Jewish culture and tradition that can enrich the faith of believers, it is essential to be discerning in one’s approach and to ensure that these influences do not compromise the core principles of Christianity or lead others astray. Believers should seek guidance from trusted spiritual mentors and scholars to ensure that they are receiving an accurate and faithful representation of God’s word.

The scripture “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem” found in Psalms 122:6, is often used to justify unwavering support for the modern state of Israel. However, it is essential to understand that this passage does not mean that believers should blindly support everything Israel does in modern times. Instead, it is a call to pray for peace and unity in a region that has been plagued by conflict and division.

Some theologians believe that the person of the Anti-Christ, the embodiment of Satan in human form, will come out of Israel to lead the world astray. This belief is based on several passages in the Bible, including Daniel 9:27, which speaks of a leader who will make a covenant with Israel for seven years, and 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, which speaks of a man of lawlessness who will set himself up as God in the temple.

While the idea of the Anti-Christ coming out of Israel may seem far-fetched, it is essential to remember that the Bible warns against being deceived by false prophets and teachers who will seek to lead believers astray. As such, it is crucial for believers to be discerning in their approach to supporting Israel and to ensure that they do not compromise the core principles of their faith or support policies and actions that are not in line with God’s will.

Despite the importance of supporting Israel, it is essential to recognize that the country has a troubled history of persecuting Christians. There have been numerous incidents of beatings, arrests, church closures, and stoning of Christians living in Israel. This is a clear violation of the principles of religious freedom and tolerance that are central to the Christian faith.

The Old Testament contains numerous examples of the Israelites turning their back on God to pursue false gods and idols. This trend continued into the New Testament, with many Jews rejecting Jesus as the Messiah and instead following after false teachers and prophets. In the end times, the Bible warns that some Jews will follow after Satan himself, as described in Revelation 12:9, which speaks of the devil deceiving the whole world.

The Talmud, a collection of Jewish teachings and interpretations of the Torah, has been criticized by many Christians for its anti-Christian content. Some passages in the Talmud contain graphic and insulting descriptions of Jesus, including the idea that he is boiling in excrement for eternity. This is a clear example of the hostility that some Jews have towards Christians and their beliefs.

As such, it is essential for Christians to understand that Jews, like people of all other religions, need to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Being Jewish is not a special thing that sets one apart from other believers, as the Bible teaches that there is no distinction between Jews and Gentiles in Christ (Galatians 3:28). All believers are called to follow Jesus and to live according to his teachings, regardless of their cultural or religious background.

While it is essential to support Israel and pray for its peace, it is crucial for believers to be discerning in their approach and not to compromise the core principles of their faith. The Talmud and other Jewish teachings that are hostile to Christianity should be rejected, and Jews, like people of all other religions, should be encouraged to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Ultimately, the message of the Gospel is one of unity and love, and believers should strive to live out this message in their interactions with people of all backgrounds and beliefs.

 

The Straight and Narrow Path

In the Gospel of Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus teaches that there are two paths in life: the broad path that leads to destruction and the narrow path that leads to salvation. This teaching underscores the importance of making wise choices and following God’s guidance in all aspects of life.

In the context of the modern church, the straight and narrow path represents a commitment to upholding the core principles of Christianity, even in the face of adversity and temptation. By remaining steadfast in their faith and rejecting the allure of worldly pleasures and distractions, believers can navigate the challenges of the contemporary world and emerge victorious in their spiritual journey.

The phrase “be wise as serpents and harmless as doves” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of discernment and purity in the modern church. As believers face a myriad of challenges, from corruption to the influence of secular ideologies, it is essential that they remain grounded in the core principles of their faith and resist the temptation to stray from the straight and narrow path.

By engaging in thoughtful study and reflection, seeking guidance from trusted spiritual mentors, and staying true to the teachings of the Bible, Christians can navigate the serpentine world of the modern church and emerge as wise and harmless disciples, shining examples of the transformative power of faith.