"Mark D J." <Mark D J.@hoyme.com>
Re: Simple Question
"Gilbertus Albans" <primemenstat@world.net> wrote in message
news:y_AZg.3646$4T6.1070@trnddc02...
How do you identify a false religion?
Answer: it will have the word 'religion' in it.
M.
Hello,
Of course there really are some Scriptural answers to that question.
Here was my response:
"Many are easily identified by their "fruit"- by their conduct, etc.
Jesus explained it this way at Mt 7:15-20,
"15. "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's
clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.
16. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes
from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
17. Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears
bad fruit.
18. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear
good fruit.
19. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown
into the fire.
20. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them." (NIV)
For example, if a religion professes to be Christian, and yet supports
the wars of this world, they are directly going against Jesus' words
at Mt 5:44,
"But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute
you," (NASB)
Instead of 'loving' their enemies, they try to spread out his guts on
a battlefield. (or worse) Their 'fruit' shows them to be just what
they are; a false religion.
Of course when one is in the true religion (like Jesus' disciples were
in the first century), it is easier to recognize false religions that
are much different than yours. (like the pagan religions around those
first century Christians)
At any rate, there are some things to look for than one would
logically expect of a true religion. For instance, if God wanted
everyone to follow Him, then He would make sure that everyone would
get the opportunity to hear about Him and learn about Him etc.
Interestingly, the Bible is in more languages and widely distributed
than any other religious book. As the World Book Encyclopedia puts it:
"The Bible is the most widely distributed book in history. It has also
been translated more times, and into more languages, than any other
book."
Sincerely, James
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