Deception in the Church? IS SOMEONE SPEAKING AGAINST YOUR BISHOP OR YOUR PASTOR, YOUR ELDER OR OTHER SPIRITUAL LEADER IN THE CHURCH? The Bible is clear that this can happen in any Church, especially in end days. Sadly, in recent history, the United International Moravian Ministry group (UIMM), it’s Churches and leadership has had to respond biblically using our biblical admonition to correct one another. Thankfully we remain strong and committed to strengthening our Churches. And we continue our vision of fulfilling the Great Commission and teaching Discipleship in Alaska, our nation, and the world.
God’s Word warns us in 2 Thess. 2:3 – (NASB) says, “Let no one in any way deceive you….” Colossians 2:8 (NASB) says, “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ.”
A Spirit of Religion, a Judas spirit (hiding), personal opinions against a recognized State of Alaska or US Governmental recognized 501c3 religious organization, or even “a hardened heart” can all lead to deception. God knows where the Lions are. But as his beloved sheep, He is there to keep us in love and unity; and NOT fall for any deception in the Church.
We recognize that the only power the devil has against us is through deception and falsehood. This stronghold can impact us negatively and hurt the Holy Spirit movement God has bless us with since 2012. That’s why Mark 13:33 tells us to “be alert!” Many Christians have believed the lies fed to them by religious spirit or tradition, without lining them up with the Word of God. We do not desire this to happen to our Churches and Fellowships.
Please remember that none of us, no bishop or minister is perfect! Please be warned in loving concern. It is clear in God’s Word in 1 Samuel 26:0 NIV, “Who can lay a hand on the LORD’s anointed and be guiltless?”. This doesn’t mean that spiritual leaders are above criticism, but it is important to remember that “everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way” (1 Corinthians 14:40, NIV). When disciplinary decisions are made in the Church, they are final and repentance is sought.
Getting on social media and tearing people down is neither fitting nor orderly. Nor is it “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). If you believe a pastor or minister is not in line with the Word, you do not have to attend their church or support their ministry financially. But according to our Brotherly Agreement or Covenant for Christian Living, you can pray for them, and if you are in the proper position to do so, ask the Lord if He would have you deal with them in private. A good avenue is to speak to your pastor or bishop privately for assistance, who can meet with the respective Church Boards privately and in confidence. But to belittle or speaking negatively about any Christian leaders is a form of deception, which will hurt your church and your own walk with God.
As another Pastor, who I respect says, “You don’t have to agree with every Christian leader, but you are not called to speak against them on the internet, in your circle of friends, or even in the privacy of your home.” Remember David did not dishonor Saul by speaking against him, fighting him or even trying to overthrow him. He let God be the judge. He left things in God’s hands and eventually David was blessed incredibly and so will you be blessed!