Keep it Simple, Missionary

I’ve recently returned from a cruise to the South Pacific Islands of New Caledonia and Vanuatu. It was a wonderful time, relaxing in the beauty and friendliness of these islands, absorbing indigenous culture, swimming in pristine waters and enjoying a more relaxed pace of life.

When we were walking around the island of Lifou we were pleased to see that there were Christians spreading the gospel, or so we thought. It transpired that there are many Jehovah’s Witnesses seeking converts among the native population and visiting tourists. 

The more I learn about less developed nations, the more I understand that there are many groups operating under the banner of Christianity, seeking to influence others to their cause. Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Mormon religion are two of the most active. Unfortunately, it would be easy for the uninitiated to imagine that either of those two religions represent the Christian faith and thus represent a way to connect with God and enjoy a life of prosperity and happiness. Unfortunately, people can become ensnared in these religions and find themselves increasingly controlled and confused to the point that they require release from them. As a result, they can become cynical about Christianity as a whole.

To me neither of these two pseudo religions represents the truth of Christianity. If you want to be a Christian, if you want to draw others to Jesus Christ there is one point of reference that is trustworthy above any other – the Bible.

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

The Bible is God’s word to mankind- through the prophets, through the words of Jesus and through the apostles writing under the inspiration of God’s Holy Spirit. If it’s in the Bible, you can believe it.

We are warned in the Bible not to add anything to scripture, nor to take anything away from it. The apostle Paul tell us:

“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse!” (Galatians 1:8)

In the same manner, in the final chapter of the Bible we are again warned not to add or detract from scripture:

“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. ¹⁹ 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.”

This is why it’s so important for anyone ministering the gospel to do so Biblically. Be suspicious of any organization or person who wants to add additional material to the Bible. Be suspicious of any organization that suggests they have secret pathways to enlightenment which can only be achieved by studying their methods. Be suspicious of any religion that requires you to work your way to God.

The God of the Bible, the only true God, is freely available to all who seek Him, through His Son Jesus Christ. Fellowship with others in a Christian community should enhance our knowledge of God and commitment to Him, not enslave us to a church. If a church is open about their beliefs through a statement of faith, we can determine if they rely on God’s word, the Bible.