Thursday, May 21, 2015

Altar Calls and the "Sinner's Prayer"

FACT:

Altar calls and the "Sinner's Prayer" are not required elements of ministry. Neither of these practices were employed by the early church. In fact, both became popular only during the evangelical era of the early 20th century. Many cite Charles Finney as the creator of the modern altar call, which he used to create a sense of "urgency and anxiety" in the 1830's for those who heard the message. The practice continued through the likes of D.L. Moody and Billy Graham, who fueled its popularity. With that, the "Sinner's Prayer" gained momentum as a method to ensure consciousness of salvation to those who stepped forward.

While many modern ministries and ministers teach these as necessary elements of ministry, this is not the case. This is merely one method in history used to minister to people in a corporate fellowship setting. In fact, many churches and ministries today, including some evangelical ones, neglect both practices based on the fact that they generate large numbers of "false conversions."

What's the point? Be led of God. This is merely one method, and arguably not the most effective, though it may be most popular. Many of us, if we'd be honest, had personal experiences with God, outside of an altar call, that truly converted our hearts. It was in that intimate place that we were actually born again. While the altar call may have been instrumental in some cases, it certainly is not the only way.

Altar calls are not required, and the "Sinner's Prayer" is not biblical at all. In fact, it can be detrimental. A Scripture passage often cited during the traditional altar call is Romans 10:9-11. First, Paul wrote this passage to BELIEVERS, the church. It was not directed toward unbelievers. Second, this passage speaks of a heartfelt belief and confession. The question can be asked, if a person is repeating a prayer, is it really heart felt? One may argue that a sincere prayer, even if not filled with theological accuracy, is more pleasing to God.

Selah.

‪#‎Don‬'tLetCultureBecomeYourCult ‪#‎SettingTheRecordStraight‬

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

"Christian" Vestments

FACT:

Almost 100% of the vestments worn by today's clergy come from pagan and Catholic traditions... NOT the old testament priests. After all, all who are born-again are part of the royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). All truly born-again believers are ministers (2 Corinthians 5:17-19). The veil has been rent. Thus, there is no biblical need or requirement for ministers, who happen to speak publicly, to dress differently than anyone else. It's merely preference and/or institutional protocol. There is no requirement for and NO ANOINTING in a clergy collar, robe, tunic, chasuble or otherwise.

Let's not lie to or deceive God's people. If clerical attire is the preference... okay. Let's not make it more than it is. If we tell God's people that we are following the tradition of God's priests, then we will follow the very detailed instruction God gave for that priestly attire. Ephods, anyone? Reference Exodus 28, 39

People of God, BE FREE! Stop going into debt to dress up like a pope or KKK grand wizard. Save your money. You carry the anointing in your spirit, not on your back. Selah.

‪#‎SettingTheRecordStraight‬