Remaining Among the Lost

Our Lord was often opposed by religious leaders. As Jesus continued to perform miracles and deliver truth in His sermons, the Pharisees and scribes’ anger rose more and more (John 5:16-18; 7:25-26). Meanwhile Christ’s popularity rose among the common people and many believed and confessed Him as Christ (John 7:40-41).

Even when there were conflicting thoughts as to His identity, Christ’s message came through as authoritative and unique (John 7:45-46). Christ later noted the hypocrisy of the religious leaders, showing them to be willfully blind to the truth (John 9:40-41). When one is choosing to deny what he sees to be true, he will remain in a lost condition.

There were some, even among the rulers of the Jewish synagogue, who believed in Jesus (John 12:42-43). They disagreed with their companions’ view of Christ and His teaching, yet they would not speak up to confess Christ. Why would a person remain with a group, seeing that they are in error, rather than joining with those who hold to the truth?

I believe many in the modern day are living like these rulers of the synagogue. They choose to remain in man-made religion, with a group they disagree with, because they are fearful. The praise of men is a powerful draw, but shouldn’t the praise of God be far more attractive?

Some remain in their denomination because it was “mom’s church.” They declare their religious affiliation with the same unchangeable certainty as if stating a blood type or place of birth. Even knowing better and disagreeing with some of what is taught, the person will remain. They fear being disowned by family or dishonoring the memory of their loved ones. They are choosing to love family more than God (Matt 10:37-38).

Some remain in their denomination because of friends. The social aspect of a church family provides security and comfort. They fear disappointing their friends or being rejected by them for questioning certain doctrines. God would have us show true love for our friends by turning them from error (Eph 4:14-15; 5:11; Gal 6:1). We must live according to the will of God, even if it means suffering in this life (1 Pet 4:1-2; 2 Tim 3:12).

Perhaps some remain in their denomination because they don’t think there is anything better out there. They see their flawed church as one of many imperfect sects of organized religion. We know humans are not perfect, but the Word of God is (Psa 18:30; Jam 1:21; 1 Pet 1:24-25). Therefore, we must stand for and promote true righteousness. Don’t allow yourself, your family, or your friends to remain separate from the one body (Eph 4:4-6). Let us leave the world that we may gain Christ (Php 3:8)!