"Exposing by Contrast"
Letter to the Editor:
GOD’S MESSAGE, April 2011, p.3
BEING ALWAYS ON THE ROAD, it has become my hobby to tune in to your radio station (DZEM 954 khz) I must admit that I learn a lot from your programs especially with regards to various religious beliefs. In your attempt to be fair and objective, I also noticed that you quote from books written by authorities of other religions. However my wife once quipped why your speakers at times deal with the beliefs of other religions instead of just confining yourselves to the doctrines you uphold. Is that approach not against the Bible?
Peter John Isidro
Manila, Philippines
Editor’s reply:
Thank you for writing us and for tuning in to our religious programs on local radio, DZEM 954kHz.
In discussing the truth about the teachings of other religions, our modest objective is to correct the erroneous doctrines which will cause man not to inherit the kingdom of God. (Gal. 5:20-21, New King James Version) To attain such a noble aim, there are some instances when we cannot avoid comparing the beliefs espoused by different religions with the tenets of the Bible, being the sole basis of the true faith. In doing so, we only use the Bible according to its intended function:
“…. you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for [a]instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (II Tim. 3:15-17, ibid.)
Notice that aside from being profitable for doctrine and instruction, the Holy Scriptures is also useful for “reproof” and “correction.” The Church of Christ therefore believes that examining other religious beliefs in the light of biblical precepts eventually leads to understanding and enlightenment on the part of the people concerned.
Consequently, identifying what is false is effective and oftentimes necessary to show the truth. And since it is a duty of the Church of Christ to share what is true concerning God’s wisdom (Eph. 3:10), exposing false teachings for the purpose of enlightening others, is therefore unavoidable and necessary. As a matter of fact, the Apostle Paul recommends this method of exposing the truth. He taught:
“Try to discover what the Lord wants of you, having nothing to do with the futile works of darkness but exposing them by contrast” (Eph.5:10-11, Jerusalem Bible).
Note: Some words and phrases are in bold & italics for emphasis.
Reach Out
If you wish to acquire a deeper understanding of our Church Doctrines and have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We would be delighted to direct you to one of our local resident ministers in your vicinity. Kindly include any queries you may have so that we may forward your inquiry in advance. Thank you.
Please note, we only read and respond to messages that do not contain hate speech or insults...
“Do not let unwholesome [foul, profane, worthless, vulgar] words ever come out of your mouth, but only such speech as is good for building up others, according to the need and the occasion, so that it will be a blessing to those who hear [you speak].”
(Eph. 4:29, Amplified Bible)
“Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant. It is not rude; it is not self-seeking, it is not provoked [nor overly sensitive and easily angered]; it does not take into account a wrong endured.”
(1 Corinthians 13:4-5, Amplified Bible)