I want to begin with defining a term describing the attempts of Christians who, no matter how well-meaning their intentions, somehow believe that they can make friends with a worldview that hates them no matter what they do, say, or imitate. They bend over backwards trying to "fit in" with the latest trend, cause, and ideology in order to "be a good witness". Some churches draw people in with gimmicks resembling raucous concerts than reverent fellowship (Hebrews 10:25). Desperate pastors and congregations tend to do anything that will get this wicked world to look and say with a feigned admiration, "Hey, those Christians aren't so bad after all. They're cool like us". After nearly forty years of service to the Lord Jesus Christ and witnessing these schemes grow, develop, and inevitably fail, here is a word of advice. Drop the facade. It is nothing more than a "dysfunctional relationship" that is in total opposition to what the Lord Jesus said about the world and its attitude towards the things of God. It is nothing more than a one-sided attempt that has never worked when it comes to the message of Christ and Him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2).
The word "dysfunctional" is defined as anything characterized by abnormal, unhealthy interpersonal behavior or interaction. (Merriam-Webster). The last days "church", growing more apostate with every passing day (Matthew 24:10: Luke 11:26, 14:30; 2 Thessalonians 2:3; 1 Timothy 1:19, 4:1; 2 Timothy 4:4; Hebrews 3:12; 2 Peter 3:17) fits that definition perfectly as it tears away from the Scriptures. True followers of Jesus Christ are to abstain from worldly and sinful practices and to not mix the truth of the Gospel with the world's false beliefs and demands. Too many "believers", however, are scared and intimidated of being labeled as partakers in "hate speech" for speaking out about the sins of the world, the need to repent, and turn to Jesus for salvation. Churches that take a biblical stand against the moral free-fall of these last days are being placed on so-called "hate lists" by both legal firms and government agencies bent on silencing God's Word. "Big Tech" delights in censorship, removing posts and videos that dare to speak out against evil and its brood. Yet, some folks under the banner of "Christianity" still persist in chasing after the approval of activists whose lifestyles and words clash with the teachings of the Lord Jesus, hoping that if we cater to their demands, all will be well.
What does the Lord Jesus have to say about all of this nonsense? You might not like what He has to say, but since He IS the head of the church (Ephesians 1:22, 4:15; Colossians 1:18), the King of Kings, Great Savior, and the Lord God Almighty who is holy, just, righteous, compassionate, yet unchanging (Malachi 3:6) in His standards, decrees, and expectations, it would be a good idea to listen to Him, since it determines our relationship with Him as well as our eternal destiny. The world HATES Jesus Christ as depicted in the Scriptures. He is God in the flesh (John 1:1-4; Colossians 1:16-18; 1 John 1:1-4), and the one true Lord and Savior (Romans 5:6-11, 10:9-10). He is the ONLY way to God the Father and the promise of eternal life (John 14:1-6). Any other "Jesus" which the world makes up or redefines to appease their sinful nature is false and blasphemous. The remnant church needs to be courageous (Joshua 1:6; John 19:10-11; Acts 4:20, 7:51) and take a firm, uncompromising stand for the LORD and HIs Word. The world vehemently DESPISES the Gospel (Mark 1:14-15; John 3:16; Acts 4:12) and its message that we are sinners in need of a Savior (Romans 1:18-32, 3:10-18). None of us are able to get right with God in our own power or ability (Ephesians 2:8-10). The wicked HATE the thought of having to humble themselves before the Lord Jesus Christ, yet everyone WILL bow to Him one day (Philippians 2:8-9) either as Savior or Judge. The world HATES all authentic followers of the Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:18-20). We should not be surprised by this as we proclaim His message without fear or intimidation (Acts 2:14-39, 4:18-20). If anyone is pushing "hate speech", it is the world, acting the hypocrite by placing this false label on us (Proverbs 12:15, 16:2, 21:2, 30:12).
Any attempt to appease the world damages our testimony (Matthew 13:22, 23:2-3), falsely assuring the wicked that nothing is going to happen to them (Matthew 24:38-39; Luke 12:13-21; Hebrews 9:27). It thwarts the effort to remain committed to the work Jesus expects from us in these last days (1 Corinthians 3:14,15:58; Romans 12:2; Hebrews 6:10; James 4:4, 13-14; 2 Peter 3:1-13; 1 John 2:15-17; Revelation 21:1-7). If you claim to be a follower of Jesus yet show no evidence of a life devoted to Him, instead living and acting like everyone else, then heed this warning. According to the Word of God, your professed "faith" and "conversion" are false. You will be judged and condemned by the Lord Jesus Christ for your phony, hypocritical life (Matthew 7:21-23; 2 Timothy 4:10; Hebrews 6:4-6; Revelation 20:11-15). There will be no second chances for you after you take your final breath (John 5:28-29). I pray that this wakes you up and gets you on your knees before God as the days draw nearer for His return (1Thessalonians 4:13-18). If you are tired of the hatred, vileness, wickedness, malevolence, and evil that make up the character of this world, and you desire real peace, then I invite you to turn to Jesus (Matthew 11:28-30; John 10:28-30). Repent of your sins, ask Him to save you, and tell others about Him (Romans 10:9-10, 13). The world will hate you but be of good cheer. Jesus Christ has overcome the world, defeated death, hell and the grave, and will return to make all things new. Look up, be watchful, for our redemption draws near (Luke 21:28).
donaldwhitchard@outlook.com
www.realitycityreverend.com
www.youtube.com/@realitycityreview
