We live in a world today in which it is commonplace for us - as we age -
to have annual health check-ups. The purpose? To detect health
problems early on, so that treatment may be possible for them before they
become severe or untreatable.
Wouldn't it be wise to put this much care into our spiritual lives?
Christ warns of the dangers of false teachers in the sermon on the mount
(Matt 7:15-20). He compares them to wolves in sheep's clothing.
Paul speaks of self-examination (I Cor 9:27) and constant need to
exersize spiritual control.
In Revelation chapters 1 and 2, John records Christ's critique of the 7
churches of Asia. Five of the churches (Ephesus, Pergamas, Thyatira,
Sardis, and Laodocia) were found to have spiritually fatal problems that
needed to be repented of. Only two (Smyrna and Philiadelphia) were
found to be faithful and spiritually healthy.
These verses show us that (1). we must be careful of things we hear and
are taught. We must always compare them to God's word for
authenticity. (2). As individual Christians, we apply God's word to
ourselves FIRST. That way we may be strong enough to then teach others
(see also Matt 7:3-5). (3). As a congregation, we must be sure that
the things we do, the way we worship, the things we teach, and the way we
conduct ourselves in the assembly (and out) are in accordance with God's
word.
If we take these precautions, then we can stay healthy both spiritually
as well as physically.
- David Wait
Gravel Hill church of Christ