The Ministry of Truth

"And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.” - Acts 4:18

Currently, the President of the United States is trying to establish, “the ministry of truth,” in an effort to control information on social media and other platforms. Officially, its intent is to, “protect privacy, civil rights and civil liberties.” In other words, its purpose is to eliminate what the administration considers to be, “misinformation.”

I don't consider myself to be among those who spread conspiracy theories, but I really object to the government operating a “ministry of truth.” I have great concern about the Federal government's effort to police free speech in America. The feared consequence of such a “ministry of truth,” is the control of free speech. Those leading such a “ministry” would have political agendas and biases, making decisions based upon these prejudices. The regulation of free speech could ultimately include censoring the Church's effort to spread the Gospel.

In George Orwell's book, “1984,” a “ministry of truth” was established by the government so they could control information that would align with its purposes. Of course, Orwell's book was a work of fiction, but present-day news has made this a reality.

History should teach us that the government is a terrible administrator of information. It is the Church, not the government, that operates the ministry of truth. Jesus said, “I am the way, THE TRUTH and the life.” Our message is not a message tainted by political bias. Instead, the Christian message is a bold declaration of the truth.

To be rather candid, the enemy has been successful in silencing the church's voice in America. The Church remains mute while the world tries to redefine and falsely interpret truth. We don't need the government telling us what we can and cannot say. This happened to the early church in Acts chapter 4. Rulers declared it illegal to speak or preach in the Name of Jesus. Rather than becoming wimpy, compromising robots of the state, the early church huddled together in prayer and came out with greater courage, boldly preaching the truth. O, that today's church would rise out of its lethargy, repent of her apathy and return to preaching with boldness.

As believers, we have been divinely ordained with the ministry of truth. We don't need governmental approval to spread the truth. We have a commission from our General to share the truth. We don't need to water down the message. We shouldn't be ashamed. We have been COMMANDED by God to spread the truth.

As believers, let us believe the truth, tell the truth and spread the truth. It may be unpopular, but people need to hear the truth about sin and judgment. They need to hear about God's love, expressed through the coming of the Savior, Jesus Christ. We need to continually proclaim the message of the crucifixion and resurrection. Folks need to hear the truth that salvation is available only through Christ. People need to hear that they need to respond now by turning from sin and trusting Jesus alone for their salvation.

The ministry of truth is not a governmental role, it is the Christian's responsibility and privilege. Since we have been given this glorious ministry, we need to be faithful in sharing the message of truth with everyone we meet.

Spread the truth today!

Online Church

 “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much more, as ye see the day approaching.” - Hebrews 10:25

Covid-19 altered the normal activities of American citizens for several months. In spite of the fact that Covid still exists, Americans are getting back to normal activities. Ball games are conducted. Concerts are being staged. Citizens are shopping at the mall again. Walmart is full of shoppers. People are traveling once more. The beach is a popular destination again for vacationers. It's good to see Americans getting back to their normal routine.

One thing that changed drastically during Covid-19 was the ministry of the local church. Many churches conducted “online services,” for their congregation. Using social media, churches broadcasted their services for everyone to see and enjoy. Online church became a normal ministry for churches across the land.

Online church continues for many congregations. Although online church has become popular, let me share with you the positive aspects of online church and the problems with online church.

THE POSITIVES

First of all, when it comes to the positive aspects of online church, we must admit that there are several good things that such a platform offers. First of all, it gives churches a marvelous opportunity to minister to dear saints that are unable to physically attend. Some are bedridden and can't attend church. These saints are provided with the blessing of enjoying the hymns and hearing God's Word proclaimed. Whether they are in the hospital, nursing home or restricted to bed at their own home, these believers can worship the Lord from their bed of affliction.

Secondly, there are some who are required to work on Sunday. Firemen, police officers, doctors, nurses and others may be on duty during normal services. Whether they can watch or listen to a church service while it is streaming live or listen to it later, they can still hear God's Word proclaimed, via the internet.

Third, there are unbelievers who may never darken the door of a church otherwise, who may tune into an online service. Perhaps such an experience will lead to their conversion. Paul wrote, “I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” Are we using “all means” to reach the lost? Online church may be a powerful way to globally reach unbelievers with the Gospel.

THE PROBLEMS

There are great reasons for churches to conduct online services. I applaud those churches that are using social media to minister to saints and reach the lost with the Gospel. In spite of the positive aspects of online church, there are problems with this ministry.

First of all, it takes social interaction away from our lives. While we can enjoy online fellowship, it isn't the same as in-person fellowship. Our society has become withdrawn from social activities. Of all places, the church should be a place for believers to gather and encourage each other. Hebrews 10:25, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together …” While there can be an element of fellowship with others online, it is not a substitute for in-person fellowship. We are meant to grow through our relationships. This is normal. Seeking fellowship by sitting in front of a computer is not normal. We need to foster healthy, growing relationships. We need social contact with others.

Secondly, the local church is to be a place of public worship. Recently on Facebook, I noticed that someone in California was claiming membership in a church in Tennessee. This person had never visited the church in person and probably never would, yet claimed membership there because of online services. This is not what the Lord has in mind for us. We need to faithfully attend, contribute and participate in a local church. We need to minister to others and be ministered to through a local body of believers. The local church is a place to grow, give and serve. There is much you can't do online. Online church has made it convenient to stay at home. At home you don't have to be committed to anything. With online services, you can watch (if you want) or walk away at any time when something else prompts you to. There are no expectations or responsibilities for those who watch via online church. We need the fellowship, teaching and accountability that a local church affords. Don't be a hypocrite that expects a church to be available for your family's weddings and funerals, yet you never darken its doors otherwise. You need the local church and the local church needs you. Apart from a bedridden situation or work responsibilities, we have no excuse to stay home on Sunday mornings. There is something much better than online church … and that's in-person church.

As you've seen, online services have positive aspects. Online services can be a great ministry to many and should be encouraged. But for most people, it is time to get back in church. Show up this Sunday and continue attending every Sunday.

Celebrity Preachers

 “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry.” - 1 Timothy 1:12

These days, hero worship is rather common. Actors, musicians and athletes are put on a pedestal by their loyal followers. When such a person comes to a town, the avid fans line the streets, hoping to catch a glimpse of their hero, maybe even get an autograph or pose for a picture with this celebrity. As Christians, we are no longer shocked at such idolatry. We live in a sinful, perverse world. We expect pagans to live like pagans. We know that mankind is built to worship, but sin has diverted this worship to worldly items, including people.

In my lifetime, TV and internet ministers have become celebrities. Their following may not be on the same scale as an actor or athlete, but the avid worship is just as intense. To their fans, these celebrity preachers can do or say no wrong. When these celebrity ministers speak to a crowd, they evoke the same kind of rowdy response that any other celebrity would. They sign books, sell T-shirts, advertise videos and offer autographs. False teaching or questionable decisions are rarely questioned by their followers. Why have we gotten so far off course? Why has such idolatry infiltrated the lives of professing believers?

I admit that there are a few well-known ministers that I like to listen to occasionally … and many that I don't! However, it is one thing to appreciate a minister's sermon or his oratory skills, it is another thing to put him on a pedestal. My faith is in Jesus, not a TV evangelist. When it comes to TV and internet ministers, let me point out some obvious truths.

First of all, a celebrity preacher is not your pastor. He is not available to visit you when you are sick. You can't count on him to perform your daughter's wedding or conduct the funeral of a family member. You need to be an active member of a local church. You need a pastor who will minister to you and your family. You need his guidance, wisdom and prayer.

Secondly, a celebrity preacher is just a man. He has feet of clay. He is not to be worshiped. He may be able to craft and deliver a powerful sermon, but he is vulnerable to temptation. He has a family to raise, bills to pay and other personal responsibilities. He may seem perfect on TV or the internet, but let me assure you, he is not perfect. He is mere human, in need of God like you and me.

Next, a celebrity preacher should always be examined through the lens of Scripture. There is so much false doctrine being spread on TV and the internet these days. Without a practical knowledge of the Bible, many well-meaning believers fall prey to every whim of doctrine. A man may wear a suit and tie, hold a Bible in his hand and quote Scripture, but that does not mean he is rightly interpreting and applying that Scripture. Also, beware of the financial extravagance and character flaws of the preacher. By the way, when it comes to giving, make sure you give to your local church first. After that, give to the ministries that are faithful to the Word and operate with integrity.

Finally, celebrity preachers need our prayers. When a preacher is given a wider scope of ministry, the temptations multiply. When the Lord gives a man a bigger platform to minister from, more responsibility is bestowed upon the man, and thus greater scrutiny at the Judgment Seat of Christ. The greatest thing you can do for any minister is to pray for him.

We are often impressed with celebrity preachers. They have huge churches, enthusiastic crowds and impressive programs. What does God think about celebrity preachers? I believe He would condemn the heresy, hypocrisy, greed and pride among some of these ministers. He may be pleased with a few of them. Yet I can't help but think that God is probably more pleased with obscure preachers. Perhaps those who have a small platform or broadcast over the local TV or radio station. Some are even bi-vocational pastors, serving God with integrity. They are faithfully preaching the Word, helping people and leading small congregations. They love Jesus, spread the Gospel and have compassion for the needs of others.

Whether you are a minister or not, it is better to be famous in heaven than a celebrity on earth. It is more important to be pleasing to God than to be popular among men. We should never desire to be celebrities. Instead, let us consider ourselves to be nothing more than humble servants of the living God. That is far better than we deserve. Instead of seeking celebrity status, let us labor daily to shine the spotlight only on our Lord.

He deserves it.

Landmines

“Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” - 1 Corinthians 10:12

There is nothing more deceptive and destructive than a landmine. A landmine is an explosive device that is hidden in the ground. The landmine is detonated when pressure is applied on top of it, such as someone walking or driving over it. A landmine produces catastrophic damage.

Spiritually, the devil has landmines strategically placed in the path of life. As believers, we need to be aware of this potential problem. In 2 Corinthians 2:11, the Apostle Paul mentioned our enemy when he wrote, “... we are not ignorant of his devices.” We need to be aware of the enemy's strategy, which includes landmines.

Those in ministry are very vulnerable to landmines. Due to the nature of our calling and work, the enemy has targeted ministers. Specific landmines have been set for those in ministry. These landmines come in the form of temptation, designed to target personal weakness or unguarded areas of life. Despite the enemy's effectiveness, most ministers act as if they are immune to landmines. We need to heed Paul's words, “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.”

Many who will read this may not be ministers, but it will certainly give you an idea how to pray for your pastor and others in ministry. Furthermore, these landmines also exist for those outside of ministry, so there is something here for everyone. For those who are in ministry, I will not write anything new. You are fully aware of these landmines. I mention them to remind you (and myself) to be vigilant in avoiding these landmines.

Although there are many landmines in place, I want to mention the three most deadly landmines that ministers will face.

FEMALES

First of all, the enemy loves to see ministers fall into immorality. Nothing will destroy a ministry quicker than adultery. Cases of such landmine disasters are well-known. Sadly, the number of those impacted by this landmine continue to grow. Ministers are often in a vulnerable situation, offering spiritual and emotional support to hurting people. Unless a minister sets very strict guidelines in counseling, he will quickly be a victim of this landmine. No minister is immune to this landmine, so we must guard against it.

FINANCES

There have been pastors who've been removed from leadership because of financial impropriety. In my opinion, the pastor should not be in charge of church finances. Ministers who lead evangelistic or para-church organizations need to have someone else handle the finances. Ministry finances should never be hidden or secretive. A minister should not be manipulating funds for personal gain. Neither should he consider himself to a financial guru and try to gamble the church's finances on day-to-day stock market trading. Ministers have a simple job: love God, love their family and preach the Word. Keep away from the money. Don't let it corrupt and destroy your ministry. It is a landmine that has destroyed the reputation and credibility of many.

FAME

This final landmine is often overlooked. In fact, some would argue that it is not a landmine at all. Yet, because of its deceptive nature, this is the most deadly landmine. Normally, this is the first step that leads to the other landmines. There are ministers who are faithful to their wives and refuse to abuse ministry finances, yet pride is destroying their ministry. If you are enjoying any degree of success in ministry, don't let it go to your head. If your ministry is growing phenomenally compared to other churches in your neighborhood, association or convention, don't act superior to others. Success in ministry is a work of grace. If lives are being changed, it is God that deserves the credit, not you. Too many mega-church pastors believe their press release and strut onto Christian talk shows and special venues, thinking that they deserve to be there. If your ministry is going through a dispensation of growth, get on your knees and thank God for it. Remember that Paul wrote that, “God gives the increase.” The Bible clearly teaches that God resists the proud. Sadly, many ministers are like Samson who “did not know that the Lord had left him.” It is possible to have a growing church without God's blessing. Cults are an example of this. It is better to be in a small, humble church with the touch of God on your life than to lead an exciting, growing mega-church, but never sense God's presence and power.

How can minister avoid these landmines? First of all, recognize that they exist. We are in a harvest field, but landmines are around us. Secondly, realize that you are vulnerable. You may think that your marriage is strong and that adultery could never happen. But you ARE vulnerable to females, finances and fame. Next, avoid the landmines. Avoid them by staying close to God. Neglecting your spiritual growth is a careless act that leads to landmines. Keep your priorities. Walk with God daily, spend quality time with your family and enlist the prayerful support of other believers. Finally, remain accountable. You need to have other friends who can speak into your life. Be transparent with these few, faithful friends.

Jesus faced landmines Himself. As a man, He avoided them. As God He triumphed over them. We can avoid them, too. With the Lord's help, we can enjoy victory every day. Let's avoid the landmines of sin!