A CURIOUS KIND OF CALVINISM

 Lately I've been going through the association minutes of many Baptist associations in south Alabama. In doing so I ran down many rabbit trails, and ended up miles away from what was my original search.  The first thing I do when reading about an association, is go through their articles of faith. At first this one seemed like any other Calvinist association, with the fourth article stating

"We believe in the eternal and particular election of a definite number of Adam's race to grace and glory/" 

Pretty standard for Calvinist articles. Then came the fifth article which states:

"We believe that for the sake of the elect, all other persons may partake of the benefits of the atonement, and drawn by the Spirit through the prayers and supplications of God's elect, so that they too may be saved." 

What to make of this? That's enough to drive a historian crazy! It took me hours of digging through hand written minutes, some barely legible to finally find an answer. In a doctrinal sermon in 1852 by Elder Ira Teke? (the ink was so faint I am not sure of the last name) he says "Just as Israel was the elect of God and through them God was made known, so too are we. Just as a Gentile could come into Israel and know the true God, so too can a sinner come into Christ's Zion and be reconciled. God called Jonah to preach to the non elect and because of that prophet, all of Nineveh repented and believed God. Through Abraham, Israel became elect, and through Christ we have become the same. Shall we neglect so great an election and calling? Shall we too be like the Pharisees, beating our breasts and wearing our tassels in pride, and yet forget why we were chosen? We are a holy nation of priests, but what is that if we neglect our priestly duties? We have no choice dear friends. Either Christ will be made known through our obedience, or he will be made known because of our disobedience. Shall we be blinded as Israel? "

Prophetic words indeed. The Rock Bend Primitive Baptist Association dissolved around 1892 and its churches applied to be accepted into the Piney Grove Baptist Association, which in turn went into the Pine Barren Association.  Quite a few of the churches still exist, but as of yet, I cannot find any who remembers the original doctrines. It appears they simply accepted the general atonement view of those around them, and I suppose in some sense they had always believed that, being more like a four point Calvinist, the difference being that they believed in both irresistible grace for the elect, and a resistible grace for the non elect. 

If anyone knows of any other associations with similar beliefs, please leave a comment!

 

 

Essentials of Religion (vi)

"O You who hear prayer, To You all flesh will come"

(Psalm 65: 2 nkjv)

Prayer is an essential practice in religion. I don't know of any religion that does not promote prayer. We could probably add "fasting" to our original list of religion's essentials, even though fasting is not an essential in all religions, though it may be part of it. After all, fasting and prayer often are connected in scripture. So too is meditation, and we might should say something about that as well in conjunction with prayer. So, what is the Christian view of prayer and how does it differ from other religions?

Christian prayer distinguishes itself chiefly by being Trinitarian and focused on Christ. Christians pray to God the Father, through Christ and his mediation, and by the aid of the Holy Spirit. So wrote the apostle Paul, saying - "For through him (Christ) we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father." (Eph. 2: 18 kjv) Notice the three prepositions in the above Trinitarian prayer. That does not mean that we don't pray to the Lord Jesus Christ, but we pray to him as a mediator, intercessor, and high priest who presents our prayers and petitions to the Father. Jesus said "no man comes to the Father but by me" and says "I am the way." (John 14: 6) 

Christians pray to God alone because they recognize that there is only one God, nor do they pray to any other deity or creature. Catholics, however, though Christian in profession, do pray to Mary, the mother of the man Christ Jesus, and pray to the apostles and saints who are in heaven. But, there is not a single example of this in the bible. No one is to pray to the dead or attempt to communicate with the dead. This is called necromancy and is condemned by God in the old testament. (See Deut. 18: 10-12; Lev. 20: 27) This divine prohibition not only forbids all seances, mediums, and channelers, but other similar things like being baptized for the dead, or proxy baptisms (as in the Mormon religion). 

Many of the world's religions have accessories associated with prayer, and rituals of prayer. This would include prayer beads, prayer wheels, prayer bells, prayer cloths and veils, prayer rugs, prayer shawls, and prayer rituals. Some have designated times in the day for prayer and require bodily positions for prayer. They also have differences of belief regarding the purpose of prayer. In nearly all of these things the Christian lacks these things in his prayer life, they having no foundation in scripture.

Prayer Beads

"Prayer beads serve as a tool to aid in focusing during prayer and meditation, primarily by providing a physical way to count repetitions of prayers, mantras, or other sacred phrases. They are used across various religious and spiritual practices to help with concentration, mindfulness, and maintaining a meditative state...This can be particularly helpful for practices that involve repetition, such as the rosary in Catholicism or the japa mala in Hinduism." (AI)

"Prayer beads are used across a wide range of religious traditions, including Christianity (Catholicism and Protestantism), Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Islam, and others. The specific type and use of prayer beads can vary depending on the tradition, but the general purpose remains the same: to aid in prayer and meditation."  (AI)

We will have some things to say about repetition in prayer shortly. No holy man in scripture prayed with prayer beads. This is not needed. What is needed is praying "in the Spirit." The Spirit of God is sufficient to keep a person focused in prayer. Notice these verses that speak of praying by the Spirit:

"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints." (Eph. 6: 18 kjv)

"But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God." (Jude 1: 20 kjv)

"What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also." (I Cor. 14: 15 kjv)

When a believer is praying in the Spirit he does not need prayer beads, prayer bells, or any other such thing. When engaged in such praying there will be no wandering of the mind. Further, it is in such prayers that one hears the voice of God telepathically. That is because the mind of the believer is connected to the mind of God. 

Prayer beads are also not needed by Christians because they understand that repetition of the same words over and over avails nothing. Said the Lord Jesus: "But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking." (Matt. 6: 7 kjv)

By "as the heathen do" is meant the religious Gentiles who were all polytheists. We see this kind of thinking in those religions. We see it reflected in Catholicism where "penance" may involve saying a "hail Mary" prayer or some other mantra so many times in order to obtain forgiveness. A way to keep count, as through beads, would be beneficial in such cases. To think that saying the same prayer over and over again so as to merit the divine favor is not in keeping with the tenor and spirit of the new testament. It is more akin to magic and superstition and to heathen religions.

Prayer Wheels

"Prayer wheels in Tibetan Buddhism are used as a tool for spiritual practice, specifically to accumulate merit, purify negative karma, and cultivate compassion. By spinning the wheel, devotees are said to achieve the same benefits as reciting the mantras or prayers inscribed within." (AI)

This reminds me of the days when I was in elementary school and was being punished by a teacher by having to write a sentence a hundred or more times! Many times instead of writing out the words "I will not talk when the teacher is speaking" (or something similar) on each line I would write the first letter in the sentence on each line on the paper and then do the same with the second letter until finished. I can see where having to pray the same lines over and over for a hundred times (in order to atone for my wrong) will force one to simply do something similar, such as saying the prayers as fast as an auctioneer. Said AI Overview:

"Prayer wheels allow the faithful Buddhist to multiply the number of prayers expressed by millions. This is because prayer wheels are filled with copies of mantras (sacred spells associated with particular deities)."

That is what I am talking about. Saying the same prayer over and over again would be monotonous and a way to cheat or find a short cut, as did the Buddhists, would be most desired. Just spin the prayer wheel and have a hundred "hail Mary's"! 

One song often sung by Christians is the song "Just A Little Talk With Jesus" has these lines:

"have a little talk with Jesus (Let us) tell Him all about our troubles (He will) hear our faintest cry (And He will) answer by and by (And now when you) feel a little prayer wheel turnin' (Lord, you know) know a little fire is burnin' (You will) find a little talk with Jesus makes it right"

This is a mixture of Buddhist practice with Christian. 

Prayer Bells

Churches, like the Mosques of Islam, often use bells to call the faithful to prayer. But, some religions use them as an aid to prayer itself. 

"In Buddhist practice, prayer bells, especially Tibetan hand bells, are used to enhance meditation, prayer, and rituals. They are believed to purify negative energy, cleanse the aura, and induce a calming atmosphere for meditation. The sound of the bell is often considered to be similar to the "ohm" vibration, which is also associated with meditation and spiritual practices." (AI)

Christians do not need bells to help them pray. They would in fact often be a distraction. Prayers are not more effectual because of bells, candles, or any other such thing.

Prayer Cloths. Veils & Shawls

"Prayer cloths are pieces of fabric, often handkerchiefs or shawls, used by some Christians as a tangible object to focus on during prayer and as a symbol of faith in God's healing and sustaining power...They may have Bible verses or prayers printed on them or be plain like a handkerchief. Various Protestant churches (usually Pentecostals) use prayer clothes either as a token to show the giver is praying for the sick recipient or as a direct means to pass on healing." (AI) 

Again, though some Christians have prayer cloths they are not scriptural. To pray in the Spirit and in the ears of the Father and his Son the mediator requires no prayer beads, prayer wheels, nor prayer cloths. It really is superstitious and what one would expect to find in heathen pagan religions. Having such adds nothing to the efficacy of prayer. What is most important is praying in the Spirit, praying according to the word and will of God, praying fervently and sincerely, praying with a thankful heart, praying with reverence and godly fear and trembling, and praying in humility. 

"Prayer cloths first became popular in America thanks to Joseph Smith, founder of the Church of Latter-Day Saints (also known as Mormonism)...most Mormons dropped the practice, concerned that it became a folk magic ritual. Around the time that Mormons stopped promoting prayer cloths, Pentecostals and holiness evangelists began using them." (Christianity.com - See here) 

Again, prayer cloths are not biblical and certainly add nothing to prayer. 

Christian women are commanded to pray with their heads covered and Christian men are to pray with their heads uncovered. (I Cor. 11: 2-16) But, this is not restricted to prayer. It is also applicable to the entire worship service. It is also not applicable to private prayer however. A Christian woman may go into her closet to pray to God without a head covering. She may pray with her family without it. Likewise Christian men should pray and worship in the assembly without a hat, turban, hood, etc. Again, that does not mean that he cannot pray in private with his hat on. If he is riding in his car with his hat on, he may pray to God with it on. A woman's veil is not an accessory to prayer, but serves another purpose. By wearing the veil in public worship the woman expresses her faith in the divine order respecting men and women.  

What about prayer clothes, like the prayer shawl? Crosswalk says (See here):

"A prayer shawl, also called a tallit, is a special garment worn by Jewish men. The garment signifies the nobility that comes from being God’s chosen people. The tallit is a sign of obedience to God’s law. Jewish women are not required to wear them, but some do during prayer time. Jewish children are often given the tallit at their bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah. Some Christians today use a prayer shawl during their prayer time."

In response we say the same thing that Paul said to those who thought one's relationship with God was dependent on what food he ate. Said the apostle: "But food does not commend us to God; for neither if we eat are we the better, nor if we do not eat are we the worse." (I Cor. 8: 8 nkjv) Likewise we say that prayer does not become more effectual or holy or pleasing to God because of a prayer shawl, beads, wheels, etc. 

Prayer Rugs

In many religions, such as in Islam, prayer rugs are an essential item in prayer.

"Prayer rugs, also known as prayer mats, are used in Islam and some Jewish traditions for various reasons, including maintaining cleanliness, providing a designated space for prayer, and enhancing spiritual connection. They help ensure a clean surface for prayer, symbolizing a sacred space and fostering humility during worship. Additionally, prayer rugs often incorporate symbolic elements like the mihrab (a niche indicating the direction of Mecca) and other religious motifs." (AI Overview) 

"Here's a more detailed look at the reasons for using prayer rugs (AI): 

1. Cleanliness and Purity: In Islam, maintaining cleanliness is crucial during prayer, as Muslims are required to perform ablution (wudu) before worship. Prayer rugs provide a clean surface, protecting clothing and the worshiper from dirt or impurities on the ground. This aligns with the Islamic principle of ensuring purity in all aspects of worship. 

 

2. Designated Sacred Space: Prayer rugs help define a specific area for prayer, setting it apart from everyday activities. They create a sense of sacredness and focus, enhancing the spiritual experience of prayer.

3. Enhanced Spiritual Connection: The act of laying out the rug and positioning oneself towards Mecca (the direction of the Kaaba) can be a powerful reminder of the divine presence. The rug can serve as a symbolic gateway to the holy city, fostering a deeper connection with God.

4. Cultural and Artistic Significance: Prayer rugs often reflect the artistic styles and design elements of specific regions, contributing to the rich cultural heritage of Islam. They can also be seen as beautiful works of art, expressing faith and creativity.

5. Symbolic Elements: The mihrab, a prominent feature in many prayer rugs, is a visual representation of the prayer niche in mosques and indicates the direction of Mecca. Other symbols, like lamps, trees, and flowers, can also be incorporated, carrying symbolic meaning related to God's presence and paradise.

6. Jewish Tradition: In Jewish traditions, prayer rugs are used to provide a clean and sacred space for prayer, particularly during prostration or when synagogues lack benches. They can also help to enhance the sense of humility and connection with tradition during prayer."  

The reasons for the prayer rug are not valid for the Christian. We never read where Christ and his apostles used or promoted using a prayer mat. A Christian can pray even when he is dirty! Job prayed while in sackcloth and ashes. Jesus prayed while in the Garden of Gethsemane and on the cross and he certainly was not physically clean at those times. As we have seen, a believer's heart is a sanctuary and can pray in that sanctuary any time. He may be in war, in a filthy trench, but he can still pray effectually in such a state. This is what makes the Christian religion superior in regard to prayer.

Prayer Rituals & Body Positions

"Body position in prayer varies across religions but often involves kneeling, prostration, sitting, or standing, with hand positions also playing a role. While some religions prescribe specific postures, others, like Christianity, offer a range of acceptable positions." (AI) 

Body position in prayer is often seen as a way to express humility, reverence, and focus, according to some religious scholars.

According to Islamic tradition, prostration, where the forehead touches the ground, is a crucial part of Islamic prayer (Salat) and is considered the closest position to God. 

According to Jewish tradition, standing is the traditional posture for prayer, especially during the Eighteen Blessings (Amidah), which involves movement and bowing. Videos of Jewish men praying at the wailing wall in Jerusalem show men with their prayer caps and rocking forwards and backwards. We also see them writing their prayer requests on pieces of paper and putting them into the seams between the stones (similar to Buddhists putting such pieces of paper in their prayer wheels). 

Sitting with crossed legs (lotus position) is common during prayer and meditation in Hinduism and Buddhism. 

Christians pray in all sorts of bodily positions, not thinking that any one position makes prayer more holy or effectual. If he "prays without ceasing" (I Thess. 5: 17), then he will pray sometimes standing, sometimes sitting, sometimes on knees, sometimes while lying in bed, etc. Though Christians often  pray with their eyes closed, yet even this is viewed as optional. Jesus prayed with his eyes open towards heaven. (John 11: 41; 17: 1; Luke 9: 16) Many Christians like the Jews of old sometimes pray with uplifted hands, but again this is optional. (Psa. 28: 2; I Tim. 2:8) It is a way to mix praise with prayer.

Fasting & Meditation

Prayer in many religions is often mixed with fasting. (Matt. 6: 16-18; 17: 21; Acts 13: 2-3; 14: 23; I Cor. 7: 5) Though there were fasts commanded in the old testament, there are none in the new. Fasting was practiced in the new testament but it was not obligatory. Christians should keep in mind the words of the Lord to Isaiah which are as follows:

“3 'Why have we fasted,' they say, 'and You have not seen? Why have we afflicted our souls, and You take no notice?' "In fact, in the day of your fast you find pleasure, And exploit all your laborers. 4 Indeed you fast for strife and debate, And to strike with the fist of wickedness. You will not fast as you do this day, To make your voice heard on high. 5 Is it a fast that I have chosen, A day for a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head like a bulrush, And to spread out sackcloth and ashes? Would you call this a fast, And an acceptable day to the Lord? 6 "Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? 7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh?" (Isa. 58: 6 kjv)

All religions have some form of meditation. In the psalms of the bible we see where meditation and prayer were often joined together. Oftentimes it is while musing upon scripture, and the providence of God, a Christian will be moved to pray. This often occurs in a circular manner. Meditate awhile, then pray, then meditate, then pray, etc. 

"Combining prayer and meditation can offer a richer spiritual experience. Prayer, a form of communication with God, can be enhanced by meditation, which helps quiet the mind and cultivate a deeper sense of presence and connection. By first engaging in meditation to still the mind and then turning to prayer, individuals can experience a more focused and profound connection with the divine." (AI) 

Not only is meditation often joined with prayer, but so too is praise and thanksgiving. We also see this in the psalms. Utterances of praise are often intermingled with supplications, intercessions, and making requests of the Lord. 

In summation we say that Christian prayer is superior because prayer is made to the one true and living God, to the Father of all, and is made through the mediation of Christ as High Priest, and is made by the power and assistance of the Spirit of God. It is also able to be made at any time and any place because the believer in Jesus is a living temple. 

Essentials of Religion (v)

Two of the most essential elements of religion are God (or gods) and the worshipers. We have already spoken of how the Christian temple and priesthood are superior to that of other religions. We have also stated that the Christian religion is superior because it worships the one true and living God, Father, Son, and Spirit. But, so too are the worshipers in the Christian faith. The chief reason for affirming this is because they are the only ones who worship God "in spirit and in truth." Said the Lord Jesus:

"19 The woman said to Him, "Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet. 20 Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, and you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one ought to worship." 21 Jesus said to her, "Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. 22 You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. 23 But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." (John 4: 19-24 nkjv)

All worshipers of false deities "worship what they know not." Some people say that all religions are simply different ways of finding God or being saved. However, since views about God differ so much in those religions it is unreasonable to claim that they all lead to the same God. 

Sincerity is not enough for there are many who worship false gods and goddesses and are sincere in their religion, worship, and faith. According to Jesus one must not only worship God in spirit and sincerely but in truth. Worshiping a false god does no one any good. Barnes comments in his commentary:

"In spirit - The word "spirit," here, stands opposed to rites and ceremonies, and to the pomp of external worship. It refers to the "mind," the "soul," the "heart." They shall worship God with a sincere "mind;" with the simple offering of gratitude and prayer; with a desire to glorify him, and without external pomp and splendor. Spiritual worship is that where the heart is offered to God, and where we do not depend on external forms for acceptance."

This reminds us of these words of Christ:

"This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." (Matt. 15: 8-9 kjv)

As James spoke of "vain religion" so had Christ. "In vain" do people worship false gods. False religion involves two great errors. The first is to worship a false god. The second is to fail to worship God in the way he has prescribed. 

Bible Hub's encyclopedia says this (See here):

"False religion, as understood within the biblical context, refers to any system of belief or practice that deviates from the worship of the one true God as revealed in the Scriptures. It encompasses idolatry, heretical teachings, and any form of worship that contradicts the teachings of the Bible. False religion is often characterized by the worship of created things rather than the Creator, the propagation of doctrines contrary to biblical truth, and practices that lead people away from a genuine relationship with God." 

According to Jesus there are "true worshipers"; And, if there are true worshipers, then there are false worshipers. These are they who worship the one true God, the Father, and who worship him in spirit and in truth. They worship him as he himself has directed them. They also observe and do his commandments. These are the kinds of worshipers that God seeks.

The apostle Paul describes false religion in these words:

"20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man--and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. 24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen." (Rom. 1: 20-25 nkjv)

This is a good description of polytheism or paganism. Such false religion is based upon lies and has an inferior description of God. True religion is monotheistic, believing in only one God. Christianity, though believing that the Father, Son, and Spirit are each God does not believe in three Gods (tritheism), for though they are three persons they are one in essence, substance, or nature. The bible teaches the trinity of the unity and the unity of the trinity. (See John 10: 30; I John 5: 7) Anything that is created cannot be God. Anything that had a beginning cannot be God. This is why Paul condemns those who are involved in "worshiping of angels." (Col. 2: 18) This is why Protestants condemn the Catholic practice of the worshiping or adoration of saints, or praying to them and seeing them as intercessors on a par with Christ. It is a false religion that worships Mary the mother of Jesus and prays to her and makes her into a kind of goddess.

The same apostle differentiates between true religion and false also in these words:

"4 Therefore concerning the eating of things offered to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one. 5 For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as there are many gods and many lords), 6 yet for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live." (I Cor. 8: 4-6 nkjv)

True religion is monotheistic and believes in the above creed. The above is Christianity's basic statement of faith. All their religious exercise has this as a foundation. Paul defended this creed many times. When in Athens, Greece he affirmed it. So the record reads:

"Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you." (Acts 17: 22-23 kjv)

"Too Superstitious" is from the Greek word "deisidaimonesteros" and is often interpreted to mean "more religious," or perhaps "overly religious," or "very religious." It involves fearing or reverencing a deity or deities, or demigods. It literally means “fearers of demons.” This fact would lend credence to the KJV's use of the words "too superstitious," for superstition often involves the spirit world. W.E. Vine says that δεισιδαιμονία literally means being "reverent to the deity" (deido, "to fear;" daimon, "a demon," or "pagan god"), occurs in Acts 17:22 in the comparative degree." 

Why does Paul refer to the deities of the Athenians as demons to be feared and worshiped, rather than as "gods" (Greek theoi)? He could have used either term in his Athenian address. He used both at times when he referred to the deities of the Polytheists in his writings. In fact, some Pagan Athenians supposed that Paul taught that Jesus was a demon or demigod. The Athenian demon servers (worshipers) said: "He seems to be a setter forth of strange gods (Greek demons): because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection." (Acts 17: 18)

"Devotions" is from the Greek word "sebasma" and denotes "whatever is religiously honoured, an object of worship of temples, altars, statues, idolatrous images" (Strong). 

Notice that religious devotion must have an "object of worship." If we judge faith and religion by the quality of the deity or deities religiously served, then the faith of the Christian is superior to all other religions and belief systems. Another word, similar to "devotion" is the word "devout." It is used of people who are very religiously minded. "Devout" is from the Greek word "eulabes," an adjective literally denoting "taking hold well." It denotes one dedicated to religion.

In another place, Paul referred to all false religions, most of which are historically polytheistic, as "will worship" or "self-imposed religion." Said Paul about the religion of the Gnostics:

"These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion ("will worship" KJV), false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh." (Col. 2: 23)

Religion and religious exercise involve both internals and externals. The internal involves the state of heart and the mind of the worshiper. The external involves religious ceremony and ritual. Paul acknowledges that false religion has "an appearance of wisdom," a "show," but not the real thing. Elaborate temples, statues of idols, choirs and symphonies, sacrifices and feasts, celebrations, finely dressed priests, numerous altars, toasts and words of praise directed to the various deities, etc., these are the stuff of religion. Some translators think that "appearance" is not the best translation and say "reputation" is a better word. The Greek word is "logon" (a form of the word 'logos'). I think it denotes in this context the rhetoric and message of the false religion, being a reference to the religious language of the various cults. It denotes "wise words," which would be a religion that promotes certain mottoes, certain maxims, proverbs, adages, slogans, formulas, keys of knowledge, etc. 

Having now seen how Christianity is the one true religion and superior to all other religions, having a superior God, temple, priesthood, and worshipers, we will next speak of another essential to religion and that is prayer.

Essentials of Religion (iv)

We contend that the new testament teaches that the incarnate Son of God, Jesus Christ, is God's singular high priest, who is superior to every old testament high priest (though they were types of Christ' priesthood), and who has no successor since he ever lives. Second, we will see how the new testament teaches that every born again believer is a priest under Christ. In theology this is called "the priesthood of believers." Proving this would also at the same be a denial of the Catholic teaching that the magisterium (bishops) are the only priests. 

In this chapter we will discuss how the priesthood is generally an essential element of religion, and how the Christian religion, the religion that is "pure and undefiled before God," has its priesthood and how it excels all other priesthoods. Some may dispute whether all religions have priests, for many say that Islam has no priests. However, they do not have a clergy either. That does not mean that priesthood is non existent in Islam however. That is because some men function as such within the Islamic religion. They have leaders, Imams, those who are in charge of the Mosques and who instruct the worshipers in how to worship God. Also, when they pray, they often intercede for others, and this is a priestly function also. In "Who Is Muhammad in Islam? Prophet, Priest, or King?" John Span writes (See here):

"Even though Islam does not have the office of a priest, per se, it still bears some resemblances to the priesthood of the Bible."

 

He goes on to show how Muhammad was an intercessor. Muslims confess that he was a prophet, and was in many respects a king. He was a leader and teacher of Allah's followers in how they are to serve and worship Allah. Who can doubt that he also acted as a mediator between Allah and his followers?

Work of a Priest

God's priests were ordained by God to offer sacrifices and to act as mediators between God and the people. Wrote Paul:

 

"1 For every high priest taken from among men is appointed for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins. 2 He can have compassion on those who are ignorant and going astray, since he himself is also subject to weakness. 3 Because of this he is required as for the people, so also for himself, to offer sacrifices for sins." (Heb. 5: 1-3 nkjv)

Though Paul says this of high priests, it is also true of every priest. The topical encyclopedia at Bible Hub says this about the duties of a priest in the Old Testament (See here - emphasis mine):

"The role of the priest in ancient Israel was integral to the spiritual and communal life of the nation. Priests were primarily from the tribe of Levi, specifically the descendants of Aaron, and were set apart for sacred duties. Their responsibilities were multifaceted, encompassing religious, educational, and judicial functions."

The encyclopedia then lists those functions, giving the various duties or activities of priests in Israel per the oracles of God to Moses. After looking at those several activities, we will then first speak of the priesthood of Christ and of its superiority over every other priesthood of other religions. Following that we will show how the new testament affirms the priesthood of all believers and what that means.

The encyclopedia gives us the following activities of a priest in Israel (emphasis mine).

"1. Offering Sacrifices: One of the primary duties of the priests was to offer sacrifices on behalf of the people. This included burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings. The Book of Leviticus provides detailed instructions on how these sacrifices were to be conducted. Leviticus 1:9 states, "The priest is to burn all of it on the altar as a burnt offering, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD."

The above text from Hebrews mentions some of these very things, such as "offering gifts and sacrifices for sins," and in teaching the worshipers in the service of God. As we will see, Christ as high priest fulfilled all the functions of a priest and offered himself as a sacrifice for sin. All lessor priests, i.e. all believers, though they do not offer animal sacrifices for sin, nevertheless offer other kinds of sacrifices and offerings. Wrote Paul: "Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name." (Heb. 13: 15 nkjv) Peter also wrote: "you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." (I Peter 2: 5 nkjv) 

This is not what a select group within Christendom do but what all believers do, for they are all a "spiritual house" (or temple), and a "holy priesthood," and "offer spiritual sacrifices." Peter also wrote: "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." (I Peter 2: 9 nkjv)

In Romans 15:16 Paul uses the term "priestly service" in the context of his ministry to the Gentiles, saying that he is offering them to God as a pleasing offering. 

"2. Maintaining the Tabernacle/Temple: Priests were responsible for the upkeep and service of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple. This included ensuring that the sacred space was kept holy and that all rituals were performed according to divine instructions. Numbers 18:5 emphasizes this duty: "You are to perform the duties of the sanctuary and of the altar, so that wrath will not fall on the Israelites again."

These are things that Christ the high priest does, for he oversees the temple in heaven, and the church which is his temple, and the individual temple of every believer. Believers also perform these functions for they oversee both their individual temple service and that of the local church of which they may be members.

"3. Teaching the Law: Priests were also tasked with teaching the Israelites the Law of God. They served as instructors and interpreters of the Torah, guiding the people in understanding and applying God’s commandments. Malachi 2:7 highlights this role: "For the lips of a priest should preserve knowledge, and people should seek instruction from his mouth, because he is the messenger of the LORD of Hosts."

This is what all Christians are called to do. This is especially true of those who become pastors or elders in the church of God. But, all are to teach. Christian parents are to teach their children. All are to bear witness to their neighbors and support missionaries. Many bible verses teach this. 

"4. Mediating Between God and Man: As mediators, priests represented the people before God and God before the people. They interceded on behalf of the Israelites, offering prayers and sacrifices to atone for the sins of the nation. Hebrews 5:1 reflects this mediatory role: "Every high priest is appointed from among men to represent them in matters relating to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins."

This function Christ fulfills as the "one mediator between God and man" (I Tim. 2: 5). As priest and mediator he "intercedes" and prays for his people. "He ever lives to make intercession for them." (Heb. 7: 25) The Lord's people also share in Christ' mediation for they too mediate and intercede in their prayer lives. Also, as priests, they, like their high priest, represent God to others when they teach others the word of God; And they represent others to God when they pray to God on their behalf. (Matt. 5: 44; I Tim. 2: 1-2; James 5: 16) All these are functions of priests.

"5. Conducting Ritual Purifications: Priests were responsible for performing rituals of purification, which were necessary for maintaining the holiness of the community. This included diagnosing and cleansing leprosy, as well as purifying those who had become ceremonially unclean. Leviticus 14:11 describes this process: "The priest who performs the cleansing shall present the man to be cleansed, along with these offerings, before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting."

Christ the great high priest fulfills this function when he saves the repenting and believing sinner, purifying him or her through his word and blood. Believers also are involved in this purification, both for themselves and for others when they act as soul winners in bringing the lost to Christ. The word of God cleanses. So wrote the Psalmist when he wrote: "How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word." (Psa. 119: 9 nkjv) Paul also speaks of "the washing of water by the word." (Eph. 5: 26) Believers do this to themselves and to others. Peter spoke to them saying "you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit" (I Peter 1: 22 nkjv). John also said "everyone who has this hope within him purifies himself." (I John 3: 3 kjv) Then there is the baptism of water which ceremoniously purifies the believer. So Ananias said to Saul (who became Paul the apostle) - "And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22: 16 kjv)

"6. Blessing the People: The priests were also charged with blessing the people in the name of the Lord. The Aaronic Blessing, found in Numbers 6:24-26, is a well-known example: "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace." 

Christians are to bless others, and they often do this when they say "God bless you." Wrote Peter:

"Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing." (I Peter 3: 8-9 nkjv)

Paul said: "Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not." (Rom. 12: 14 kjv; See also I Cor. 4: 12; 14: 16) He also spoke of "the cup of blessing which we bless" (I Cor. 10: 16) The "we" here is not a special class of pastors, as in the Catholic religion, but stands for all believers. 

7. Judicial Responsibilities: In addition to their religious duties, priests often served as judges in legal matters, particularly those involving religious law. Deuteronomy 17:9 instructs, "Go to the Levitical priests and to the judge who is in office at that time. Inquire of them, and they will give you the verdict."

This is a function of all believers. So Paul wrote:

"1 Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unrighteous, and not before the saints? 2 Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world will be judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters? 3 Do you not know that we shall judge angels? How much more, things that pertain to this life? 4 If then you have judgments concerning things pertaining to this life, do you appoint those who are least esteemed by the church to judge? 5 I say this to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you, not even one, who will be able to judge between his brethren? 6 But brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers!" (I Cor. 6: 1-6 nkjv)

So, in conclusion we say that the Christian priesthood excels every other priesthood of any other religion. There is no high priest who can equal Jesus Christ. The priesthood of believers sets them in a high and lofty position and they are well rewarded for their service.

Essentials of Religion (iii)

In the preceding chapter we introduced this area of our subject and showed how a temple is an integral part of religion, and Christianity is no exception. We showed that the physical body of Christ is called the temple of the Lord by Christ himself, and also that he confesses to be "greater than the temple" that was built by either Solomon or Herod. We also pointed out how today there is no physical building that the new testament calls the Christian temple. It is true, as we will see, that both an individual believer and the local church are said to be God's temple, but neither the believer's body nor the social body of believers are  buildings in the normal sense. Though many call the meeting house a church or temple, technically that is not true. Rather, the church meets in a building, the people who compose the assembly (i.e. the members) being the church (which comes from the Greek word "ekklesia" and denotes an assembly of people or citizens). The same is true with being a temple, it being not a physical structure but an assembly of baptized believers.

Though there is no physical building on earth today that God recognizes as his temple, yet there is a temple in heaven and will be a new temple building in the millennial age to come. 

The Heavenly Temple

There are several references in the Book of Revelation to this heavenly temple.

"Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple. And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail." (Rev. 11: 19 nkjv; See also Rev. 15: 5-6)

In the Book of Hebrews we also have these texts:

"Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man." (Heb. 8: 1-2 kjv)

"But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building." (Heb. 9: 11 kjv)

Speaking of the priests who served in the old testament temple, the writer of Hebrews also wrote:

"They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” (Heb. 8: 5 niv)

There is some disagreement among theologians as to whether "the true tabernacle which the Lord pitched and not man" or "a greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands" is an allusion to the physical body of Christ or to the temple in heaven. 

Barnes in his commentary says:

"By a greater and more perfect tabernacle - The meaning is, that Christ officiated as high priest in a much more magnificent and perfect temple than either the tabernacle or the temple under the old dispensation. He performed the great functions of his priestly office - the sprinkling of the blood of the atonement - in heaven itself, of which the most holy place in the tabernacle was but the emblem." 

Barnes thinks that the greater antitypical temple is the temple that is in heaven. Gill writes in his commentary this way however:

"by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; meaning the human body of Christ, which was greater than tabernacle of Moses...and this is a tabernacle which God pitched, and not man; which was reared up without the help, of man: Christ was not begotten by man, but was conceived in the womb of a virgin, under the power of the Holy Ghost; he came not into the world in the way of ordinary generation, but in a supernatural manner; and so his human body is a tabernacle, not of the common building, or creation, as the word may be rendered, as other human bodies are."

I find both of these views true. However, I think Barnes' view to be what it alluded to. The old testament temple, though a literal building, was nevertheless full of symbolism. The same may be said of other literal or physical things. The cross of Christ was literal but also a sign of other things. Many Christians believe that the great pyramid of Giza is also symbolic. 

The temple God as architect described to Moses, and later first built by Solomon, was a copy, figure, or pattern of 1) the temple in heaven, and 2) of God himself, and 3) of the person of Christ in his incarnate state. It is also a picture of God's plan of salvation through the atoning sacrificial blood of Christ. But, on this we must not address now for it gets beyond the scope of this series and if done would take up several other chapters. With still having many other essential elements of religion to address, we must not tarry here. However, the bible student should read the book of Hebrews to see the significance of the temple and its ordinances and ceremonies. The old testament temple is also almost identical to the temple that Ezekiel envisioned for the millennial age. It also in some ways typifies the spiritual body of Christ, which is, as we will see, also a temple.

In the book of Revelation there is frequent mention of the heavenly temple and there are a number of items in that temple, such as altars, the ark of the covenant, the throne of God, etc. Also, of course, are various groups of worshipers, such as the various order of angels, and redeemed men and women, i.e. "the spirits of just men made perfect." (Heb. 12: 23; See also Rev. 6: 9) In fact, it was into this heavenly temple that Christ entered after his death and presented his blood on the mercy seat located there. Wrote Paul:

"For Christ has entered, not into holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true things, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf." (Heb. 9: 24 esv)

"But into the second part (holiest place in the temple) the high priest went alone once a year, not without blood, which he offered for himself and for the people’s sins committed in ignorance." (Heb. 9: 7 nkjv)

These verses say that Christ went into the heavenly temple and there offered his blood for atonement. That act within the heavenly temple was signified when upon his death on the cross we read that "the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom" (Matt. 27: 51 kjv) for Christ entered the holy place to sprinkle his blood on the mercy seat, the place of propitiation of sin.

Promise of a New Temple

In the old testament there were prophecies of the destruction of the old testament temple and the building of a new temple. So prophesied Daniel:

“And after the sixty-two weeks Messiah shall be cut off, but not for Himself; And the people of the prince who is to come Shall destroy the city and the sanctuary." (Dan. 9: 26 nkjv)

This was fulfilled in A.D. 70 when the Roman general Titus destroyed the city and the temple. Jesus himself had foretold of this, saying to his disciples as they spoke to Christ of the greatness of Herod's temple:

"Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said to them, "Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down." (Matt. 24: 1-2 nkjv)

No doubt the apostles also warned the Jews of this coming fate for the Jewish leadership in seeking to condemn Stephen said - "we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place" (Acts 6: 14 kjv). 

Along with the old testament prophecies of the destruction of the Hebrew temple was the promise of a new temple to take its place. This promise is in some respects fulfilled now but in other respects will not be fulfilled till we enter into the one thousand years of Christ' reign on earth.

“Then speak to him, saying, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts, saying: “Behold, the Man whose name is the BRANCH! From His place He shall branch out, And He shall build the temple of the LORD; Yes, He shall build the temple of the LORD. He shall bear the glory, And shall sit and rule on His throne; So He shall be a priest on His throne, And the counsel of peace shall be between them both.” ’(Zech. 6: 12-13 nkjv)

Many bible commentators and theologians believe this is fulfilled in the building of the church and that is somewhat true. However, it ought not to be limited to that, for there will surely be a new temple built of stones, gold, and precious stones, with all the furniture belonging to it, in the millennial age to come. How do we know this? From the several passages that speak of the millennial age to come and of the presence of the temple. One of those is this familiar text:

"Now it shall come to pass in the latter days That the mountain of the Lord's house Shall be established on the top of the mountains, And shall be exalted above the hills; And all nations shall flow to it. 3 Many people shall come and say, "Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, To the house of the God of Jacob; He will teach us His ways, And we shall walk in His paths." For out of Zion shall go forth the law, And the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. 4 He shall judge between the nations, And rebuke many people; They shall beat their swords into plowshares, And their spears into pruning hooks; Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, Neither shall they learn war anymore." (Isa. 2: 2-4 nkjv)

By "house of God" is meant the millennial temple. We know this because of the description of it in the prophecy and because of the time period which it is realized, which is the millennial age, when there is no more war on earth, when Christ is on earth ruling the nations, and when all nations are united in worship of Christ. The last several chapters of the Book of Ezekiel (40-48) describe this glorious temple and cannot be interpreted in a non literal manner.

Though many try to prove that the above prophecy is completely fulfilled now in the new testament church, that view is not tenable. Those who hold to this view will often begin their commentary on this prophecy by stating that the prophecy must not be taken literally, it not only being given in figurative language but also fulfilled figuratively too. As long as there is war among the nations, however, with each possessing arsenals for war, this prophecy cannot be said to be realized. Not only that, but such spiritualizers of prophecy are inconsistent in interpreting some things in the prophecy literally and other parts non literally. Wrote one commentator on this point (See here - emphasis mine):

"Some interpreters reject the literal meaning of Ezekiel 40–48, and view the description as figurative of the New Testament Church. They go to great lengths to explain away the measurements and specifications of the temple building. Such a symbolic view seems forced. A natural reading of the text points to a literal physical temple. The golden rule of interpretation is: “When the plain sense makes good sense, seek no other sense.”

Next, let us notice another text about a future temple, one in which theologians once again interpret differently. The risen Lord Jesus Christ says to John in the Book of Revelation:

“He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name." (Rev. 3: 12 nkjv)

"I will make" is from the Greek word ποιήσω (poiēsō) and is an active verb in a future tense (indicative case). For this reason alone we cannot find the fulfillment of it when a person believes and is baptized and becomes a member of the church. Another reason is because "he who overcomes" is from a present tense participle and literally means "he who is overcoming," denoting what one is steadily doing in life and service to Christ, to the ones who ultimately are victorious through Christ. But, that does not occur until a man's race is run, until he finishes his course or life. Another reason is because the other things in the text occur in conjunction with being made a pillar in the temple and those things are yet future for the believer, such as having the name of God and the city of God written on him, as well as the new name of Christ. 

So, it is better to see the fulfillment of this prophetic promise in the millennial age via Ezekiel's glorious temple and Isaiah's house in the top of the mountains, and even in the eternal ages following, even though we are told that in the new heavens and earth in the age following the millennial age that there will be no more temple. (Rev. 21: 22) But, more on that later.

I do not doubt that by being made a "pillar" in the temple is metaphorical in the same way that Paul refers to certain other apostles as being pillars in the church. (Gal. 2: 9) We use that expression today when speaking of those leaders in a community or when people say "he is a pillar of strength." 

That is not to say however that the mystical body of Christ, or the church assembly, is not also a fulfillment of old testament prophecy about a greater temple. 

A Believer is a Temple

"Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are." (I Cor. 3: 16-17 nkjv)

"Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?" (I Cor. 6: 19 nkjv)

Every man's body, whether believer or unbeliever, is a tabernacle or temple. (II Peter 1: 14; II Cor. 5: 1; etc.) The question then becomes - "what god dwells in your temple?" Every saved man in Christ has God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit especially dwelling in him. So Christ promised:

"Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him." (John 14: 23 nkjv)

The indwelling presence of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is what makes one's body a holy place, a holy temple. God dwells in the inner man, in a man's heart, in his soul and mind, in his center or core of being. He dwells in the spirit of a believer, and the spirit of the believer tabernacles in the body of the believer. Thus, the body, via the spirit, becomes a temple or house of the Lord. How wonderful and glorious a thought is this! This means a believer can live in the temple and never exit it. As previously stated, the believer entering into Christ is an entering into the greater temple, which is Christ himself. Once he has entered into Christ, he cannot ever leave. Why would he? To be there is the greatest of all joys. In fact, the Greek word that gives us our word "enthusiasm" means "God within." Also, as stated, when Christ enters into the believer, ever to stay and abide, the believer becomes a temple.

Because of this a believer can praise, worship, and offer prayers to God at any time. His heart becomes a sanctuary where Christ sits enthroned as Lord, King, Priest, and Prophet. Ego or self no longer sits in the heart, nor any other god or idol. By the presence of God in a believer's heart, soul, mind, and spirit the believer's body becomes a most holy place. Just as the blood of the sacrificial lamb was sprinkled on the temple's altar of sacrifice, so it is mystically sprinkled on the believer's heart. So writes Paul in Hebrews: "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience." (Heb. 10: 22 kjv; See also Heb. 12: 24; I Peter 1: 2)

Not only is the believer a temple because of the Lord's entering and making his home in his heart, and a holy place therefore, and a mercy seat for propitiation, but the other things in the Hebrew temple are also within the believer. In his heart, as we will later see when we come to speak of the Christian altars, there is an altar, both an altar of incense for prayer, and an altar of sacrifice, a place to present our offerings of praise and our gifts to God. What a glorious temple is this inner Christian temple! It is a beautiful place where the believer enjoys the presence of God and this is often confessed when the believer is engaged in fervent prayer and praise, and when musing and deeply meditating upon God, his word, works, and ways.

The Church Temple

"And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell in them And walk among them. I will be their God, And they shall be My people." (II Cor. 6: 16 nkjv)

"Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit." (Eph. 2: 19-22 nkjv)

If we say that the church is a temple, as Paul does in the above verse in second Corinthians, then that seems to suggest that it is a finished building. But, the second text in Ephesians seems to teach that the temple is not yet a finished construction, for it is growing into a temple. In the text we see where some of the construction has been completed, some still ongoing, and the completion yet future. 

Once again we see that what makes an assembly of believers a temple is the presence of God within the group, "a dwelling place of God." Being a temple, the believer enjoys temple delights when assembled. Mystically there is an altar of incense, an altar for presenting gifts and sacrifices, a table of shewbread, priests, manna, and the presence of angels. Though we will focus on these things separately as we proceed in upcoming chapters, let us give a sample of verses that show this to be true.

"Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased." (Heb. 13: 15-16 nkjv)

Christ is the heavenly manna or bread. (John 6: 31-58) and he is feasted upon in the assembly of saints. Also, the word of God is bread and is received and eaten when the church meets. 

Christ is the great high priests and all of his people are priests and as such act as priests when involved in church worship and service. But, more on that later in our series. (See I Peter 2: 9) 

In the church we also find the altar of incense which stands for prayer. The temple of the church is a "house of prayer" and their prayers there are compared to incense. 

"Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice." (Psa. 141: 2 kjv)

Also, angels are often present in the assembly of believers. (See I Cor. 11: 10; Heb. 12: 22-23)

No Temples?

“But Solomon built Him a house. “However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says: ‘Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool. What house will you build for Me? says the LORD, Or what is the place of My rest?" (Acts 7: 47-49 nkjv)

“God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands. “Nor is He worshiped with men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things." (Acts 17: 24-25 nkjv)

These verses seem to counter the idea that God dwells in a temple, whatever that temple is, whether it be the old testament temple, or the temple in heaven, or in the believer or in the church, or in the millennial age. But, we must not make that inference. Wrote Gill in his commentary on the first text:

"...he did indeed dwell in his temple, but he was not confined to it, nor included in it, or circumscribed by it; and so much Solomon himself suggests, when he expresses his wonder at his dwelling on earth, seeing the heaven of heavens could not contain him, and still less the house which he had built, 1 Kings 8:27..." 

Gill on Acts 17 passage

"Dwelleth not in temples made with hands; such as were the idol temples at Athens; nor in any other edifices built by man, so as to be there fixed and limited; no, not in the temple at Jerusalem: but he dwells in temples that are not made with hands, as in the temple of Christ's human nature, in which the fulness of the Godhead dwells bodily, and in the hearts of his people, who are the temples of the Holy Ghost. This strikes at a notion of the Athenians, as if God was limited, and circumscribed, and included within the bounds of a shrine, or temple, though it is not at all contrary to his promises, or the hopes of his own people, of his presence in places appointed for divine worship, but is expressive of the infinity and immensity of God."

I believe that is what is intended in those two passages. But, what about this text?

"And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it." (Rev. 21: 22 kjv)

Barnes in his commentary gives us the right interpretation. He says:

"And I saw no temple therein - No structure reared expressly for the worship of God; no particular place where he was adored. It was all temple - nothing but a temple. It was not like Jerusalem, where there was but one house reared expressly for divine worship, and to which the inhabitants repaired to praise God; it was all one great temple reared in honor of his name, and where worship ascended from every part of it. With this explanation, this passage harmonizes with what is said in Revelation 2:12; Revelation 7:15."

We should keep this in mind when we think upon the promise of being made a pillar in the temple of the Lord and dwelling in the house of the Lord forever. In the New Jerusalem and in the new heavens and earth, the whole realm of which will be a temple. 

PB Church Requests Questions

Grace Primitive Baptist Church of Pearl, Mississippi (See here) has a list of Elder David Pyles sermons and writings and at the bottom of the page they have a link for "Submit Questions." I thought about leaving a question or two but did not do so because I think it would be ignored. But, perhaps some of our readers might want to go there and ask some questions, such as I would like to see asked and answered. I would begin with asking - "did the first generation of 'Primitive Baptists' in the 1830s - 1860s generally believe in the gospel means position or not? If they did not, can you show where they did not?" I wonder if David would respond to someone else who asks that question and what his answer would be? What think ye?

Essentials of Religion (ii)

"The LORD is in His holy temple" 

(Psalm 11: 4 nkjv)

"But the LORD is in his holy temple: 

let all the earth keep silence before him" 

(Hab. 2: 20 kjv)

In this chapter we will focus our attention on how a "temple" is an essential component of religion. The religion of the Jews is based upon the old testament (or covenant) as given first by God to Moses who in the Pentateuch (first five books of the bible) gave detailed instruction on all the essential elements of the religion of God as given to the nation of Israel. In the Pentateuch we find instruction on how God was to be worshiped, and we read of laws that governed all worship and service to God, information about a temple and its construction, use, and purpose, about holy days and religious feasts, about religious rites and ceremonies, etc., the things we listed in the previous introductory chapter. We will first focus on God's temple. 

A temple is also known as the house of God and a place of worship, where prayer and praise would be given to God, and where the worshipers could experience communion with God. The Temple that God commanded to be built for him was also designed by him, he being the grand architect. A temple then is a physical structure built as a house for the God who is worshiped. It was nearly always very elaborate and costly to build. After all, it would be an insult to God to build him a shack in which to dwell. 

AI gives us this summation on the importance of temples in religion:

"Temples hold significant importance in various religions as sacred spaces for worship, connection with the divine, and spiritual practice. They serve as centers for religious rituals, prayer, and meditation, offering devotees a place to connect with their faith and receive guidance. Temples also play a crucial role in community building and cultural preservation, often serving as landmarks and spaces for social gatherings and artistic expression." 

Nearly all of the primitive religions had temples, and in the scriptures we read about "the temple of idols" (I Cor. 8: 10) and of "the temple of Diana" (or "Artemis" - Acts 19: 27). Paul also when in Athens no doubt saw and perhaps entered into the glorious temple of Athena (Acts 17) on the mount there ("Parthenon"), the remnants of which still remain to this day and which I was privileged to see when I was in Athens many years ago. Paul gave a wonderful sermon there on the Areopagus ("Mars Hill"), a small hill northwest of the "acropolis." 

The Temple in Athens is a gigantic structure with ornate columns and sits high on the mount (or acropolis) in Athens and no building is allowed to be built so as to obscure the view of that Temple. I also got to travel to some of the Greek islands (of which there are many) and most of them had temples too. In fact, all around the world we see the remnants of ancient temples as connected with all the major religions. A temple to God (or the gods) is an essential element of religion.

The Jewish Temple, either as built first by Solomon (with David his father's input) or later by king Herod, was such a beautiful and magnificent structure. In fact, in the days of Christ we find the apostles, while walking around the temple, pointing out to Christ its illustrious beauty. (Matt. 24: 1) Speaking of Zion, the place of the Lord's temple, the psalmist said: "For Your servants take pleasure in her stones, And show favor to her dust." (Psa. 102: 14) This is what the apostles were doing. Notice how even the dust underneath the temple was praised. The whole site was "holy." It was so because it was "set apart" and made special, being consecrated for religious purpose. To see the importance of the Jerusalem temple in the old testament, let us notice some texts where the temple is held in the highest esteem.

"But as for me, I will come into Your house in the multitude of Your mercy; In fear of You I will worship toward Your holy temple." (Psa. 5: 7 nkjv)

This text shows that the temple was held in such high esteem that every Jew who was not in the temple or in Jerusalem nevertheless prayed facing Jerusalem from wherever they were. Also we see one of the many times where the temple is synonymous with "house of God." 

"One thing I have desired of the LORD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, And to inquire in His temple." (Psa. 27: 4 nkjv)

"And in His temple everyone says, “Glory!”" (Psa. 29: 9 nkjv)

The temple was a place of prayer and praise, but also a place to meditate upon the word of God and often times to receive enlightenment, "to inquire" of the Lord. Notice also this further testimony from the inspired psalmist: "When I thought how to understand this, It was too painful for me--Until I went into the sanctuary of God; Then I understood their end." (Psa. 73: 16-17 nkjv) 

By "sanctuary" is meant a holy place, and often referred to the Temple, especially to the innermost room called "the holiest of all." So God instructed Moses, saying - "And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them." (Exo. 25: 8 kjv) It was such an enjoyable place to the psalmist that he wanted to never leave it, to "dwell" there always. Further, as we will see, there is a temple in heaven, and into that house David expected to enter at death and dwell there forever. So he said "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever." (Psa. 23: 6 kjv) It was a place of beauty and inspiration.

The Christian Temple

If a temple is an essential part of any religion, then where is the Christian temple? Mormons, who claim to be Christian, say that buildings such as the Mormon Tabernacle in Salt Lake City, Utah, is their chief temple. Many Christians call their local churches temples. Not only that, but semi religious organizations, like the Freemasons, put a lot of emphasis on building temples, each lodge being a representation of a temple. They also speak of each Mason building his own spiritual temple. Jews today, though they no longer have a singular temple building in Jerusalem, nevertheless Reformed Jews call their synagogues temples as in "Temple Beth Israel." 

In Christianity there are several temples recognized, as we will see. The new testament teaches that the physical body of Jesus is a temple of God. Likewise his spiritual body, or the church (body of all believers in Christ) is a temple. Also, the physical body of each believer is declared to be a temple of God. There is also a belief in the heavenly temple, in the "third heaven." Finally, many Christians believe that there will be a magnificent temple built in the millennial age to come, but no such temple in the ages to follow. 

The Temple of Christ's Body

"Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things? Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? But he spake of the temple of his body. When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said."(John 2: 18-22 kjv)

The physical body of Christ was the superlative temple for "in him dwells all the fullness of the godhead bodily." (Col. 2: 9) In the preceding texts about the old testament temple we saw mention of the fact that the divine"glory," called the "shekinah," was present in it. Shekinah is the English transliteration of a Hebrew word meaning"dwelling" or "settling" and denotes the presence of God in a place. God was especially present in the Temple, dwelling even more particularly in that part of the temple called "the most holy place" and between the two cherubim upon what was called "the mercy seat." So we read where "the glorious presence of the LORD filled the Temple of God." (II Chron. 5: 14)

The "Cloud of Glory," often referred to as the Shekinah, represents the manifest presence of God dwelling among His people, particularly in the context of the Old Testament. This divine presence was most notably associated with the Mercy-Seat, the cover of the Ark of the Covenant, which resided in the Holy of Holies within the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

Within the incarnate Son of God dwelled the shekinah glory, but it was veiled in human flesh. The beauty of Christ was not in his physical appearance but in his inner self. This glory was often unveiled so that his glory was revealed (unveiled) or manifested. This was true on the mount when Christ was transfigured in his outward appearance and appeared along with Moses and Elijah. At that time Peter, James, and John are said to have seen "his glory," as if the veil of his human flesh were removed. (Luke 9: 32) Every miracle Christ performed manifested this inner divine glory. So the apostle John writes: "This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory." (John 2: 11 kjv)

Several times in the old testament we read where "the glory of God filled the temple" that Solomon built. (See II Chron. 5: 14; Eze. 43: 5; 44: 4; I Kings 8: 11) The glory in Christ, however exceeds all the glory of the old temple. It is an "excellent glory" (II Peter 1: 17; II Cor. 3: 8-11). 

The most excellent glory that existed in Christ is also seen in these words of the apostle John:

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God...And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1: 1, 14 nkjv)

Many translations say "tabernacled among us" rather than "dwelt among us." But, we could as easily translate it as "templed among us." But, not only was the glory of God seen in the inner self of Christ, but his body was also glorious, though temporarily veiled. His body in its normal appearance was not beautiful, as the prophet said: "He has no form or comeliness; And when we see Him, There is no beauty that we should desire Him." (Isa. 53: 2 kjv) But, when Christ was on the mount, and when he appeared to the disciples after his resurrection, his body was no longer without beauty, form, and comeliness. 

The body of Christ, as the true temple or tabernacle of God, was glorious for several reasons. First, because God specially built or made it via the supernatural virgin birth. So we read in Hebrews: "Therefore, when He came into the world, He said: “Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, But a body You have prepared for Me." (Heb. 10: 5 nkjv) This body was both humble and glorious. Wrote Paul: "who shall fashion anew the body of our humiliation, that it may be conformed to the body of his glory" (Phil. 3: 21 esv). 

The same body that was lowly and without beauty is the same body that was beautiful and glorious. That "body of humiliation" was such because it was made "in the likeness of sinful flesh" (Rom. 8: 3) and intended to be a veil over its true glory. It was not sinful flesh, but holy non sinful flesh. What it appeared to be was not what it really was.

As glorious as was Solomon's temple, much more is the body of Christ. As God dwelt in the temple and there revealed his will, and would there be worshiped, so God dwelled especially in his incarnate Son and through him and his being made flesh revealed mysteries to the worshipers of Jesus. As the shekinah glory filled the old testament temple so it does in Christ, for in him dwelt "all the fulness of the Godhead bodily" (Col. 2: 9). How proper then is the idea of temple suit Christ! 

When a person believes in Christ and receives Christ (John 1: 12-13), he then becomes one with Christ, as in a marriage covenant. Christ says to believers as Adam said to his wife Eve, who was made from a rib bone of Adam - "This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh" (Gen.2: 23). In this union a believer enters into Christ and Christ enters into the believer. In entering Christ one enters into God's true temple and there remains, abiding in that temple. When Christ enters into the believer, he makes the believer a temple. On that we will have more to say in the next chapter. All are called to enter into Christ by faith and there worship God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The temple at Jerusalem was every way a most illustrious type of Christ.

Christ, the Messiah, was prophesied by Isaiah to be God's temple or sanctuary. Wrote him: "He will be as a sanctuary, But a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense To both the houses of Israel, As a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem." (Isa. 8: 14 nkjv) This is why Christ said - "But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple." (Matt. 12: 6 kjv) That is, he is greater than any temple built of stones or by finite men. When Christians pray they pray with their faces, hearts, and thoughts focused towards Christ who is the greater temple.

In the next chapter we will continue to look at the temple of the Christian religion.

Essentials of Religion

"If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." (James 1: 26-27 kjv)

In this series we will speak of the essentials of religion, especially as spoken of in the holy scriptures. Years ago I preached a message to the church I pastored titled "Five Things Necessary For Religion." After about fifty years later I want to return to that theme, with however some additions so that it is now far more than five essential things. 

I have heard some sermons through the years where I heard a preacher say "religion cannot save you sinner; only Jesus can save you." Ironically I would hear some of these same preachers sing "give me that ole time religion, give me that ole time religion..." Of course, what they meant to say was this: just being involved in religious activities or being members of a religious group or performing some religious exercises, does not guarantee salvation or acceptance with God. We see this from these words of Christ:

"Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." (Matt. 7: 22-24 kjv)

Here are people who had religion but were never known by the Lord and who go to Hell. Jesus also often spoke against the religious leaders of his day, be they Sadducees or Pharisees, declaring that they were lost in sin in spite of all their religiosity. See for instance his rebuke of them in Matthew chapter twenty three. 

But, we must not go to extremes or "throw the baby out with the bathwater" when we speak against "religion." For the fact is, we are saved by truly and sincerely embracing the Christian religion as defined in the new testament scriptures. The text above from James, the Lord's brother, shows us that there is both a "vain religion" and a "pure and undefiled religion," and "that before God." False religions will not be of any use to anyone, and can actually be a means of sealing one's doom. 

The 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith in chapter ten of "Effectual Calling" write this in section 4:

"4. Others not elected, although they may be called by the ministry of the Word, and may have some common operations of the Spirit, yet not being effectually drawn by the Father, they neither will nor can truly come to Christ, and therefore cannot be saved: much less can men that receive not the Christian religion be saved, be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the light of nature and the law of that religion they do profess." (Mt 22:14; 13:20-21; Heb 6:4-5;  Jn 6:44-45,65; 1Jn 2:24-25; Ac 4:12; Jn 4:22; 17:3)

If this is true (and it is), then 1) accepting the Christian religion (which is to accept the gospel) is necessary to be eternally saved, and 2) following any other religion saves no one.

Excluding God, the object of worship in religion, what are the essentials or component elements of "religion." In fact, how does the dictionary define "religion"? The above image gives the most simple definition, which is a sociological one. Other sources give much longer definitions. Essentially it is the worship of a deity and involves doing the bidding of that deity, or being engaged in service to him or her.

However, we cannot exclude the deity being religiously served. True religion only exists where the true deity is worshiped. All vain and false religion that does not worship only "the one true and living God" (Jer. 10: 10; I Thess. 1: 9; etc.) saves no one. 

Word Study

The sociological definition in the above heading is good simple concise definition of "religion." However, it does not detail the essential elements of religion, which is what we will do in this series. Many other social scientists also are concerned about studying the world's religions, as are theologians, and so in many colleges you can find classes in "the sociology of religion," and in the role of religion in psychology, and in "the philosophy of religion" (a class I took in college), etc. But, how do the scriptures speak of the idea of religion? As we will see, some texts give the word "religion" (or its cognates, such as worship, serve, etc.) a negative connotation, and others give a positive connotation. In the text above from James we have both kinds of religion referred to. Notice these texts about what Paul said about his native religion.

"My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews; Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee." (Acts 26: 4-5 kjv)

"For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers." (Gal. 1: 13-14 kjv)

Vine's NT Words says this about the Greek words translated "religion":

"Religion (threseia) signifies religion in its external aspect (akin to threskos), "religious worship," especially the ceremonial service of "religion;" it is used of the "religion" of the Jews, Acts 26:5; of the "worshiping" of angels, Colossians 2:18, which they themselves repudiate (Revelation 22:8-Revelation 22:9)...in James 1:26-James 1:27 the writer purposely uses the word to set in contrast that which is unreal and deceptive, and the "pure religion" which consists in visiting "the fatherless and widows in their affliction," and in keeping oneself "unspotted from the world." He is "not herein affirming...these offices to be the sum total, nor yet the great essentials, of true religion, but declares them to be the body, the threskeia, of which godliness, or the love of God, is the informing soul" (Trench)."

In the Galatians passage the Greek word is "ioudaismos" and means religion of the Jews and on this word Vine says that it "denotes "the Jews' religion," and stands, not for their religious beliefs, but for their religious practices, not as instituted by God, but as developed and extended from these by the traditions of the Pharisees and scribes. In the Apocrypha it denotes comprehensively "the Government, laws, institutions and religion of the Jews." 

Essentials of Religion

1. Temple or place of worship

2. Priests

3. Worshipers

4. Prayer

5. Praise and Adoration

6. Altars

7. Religious Rules 

8. Sacrifices

9. Rites and Ceremonies

10. Oracles and Sacred Writings.

11. Holy or Feast Days

12. Religious Duties (religious life)

13. Creed or Confession of Faith

14. Belief and religious feelings (psychological)

Some might include other things, things that are not essential, but accompaniments, such as:

1. Relics and holy objects

2. Anointings

3. Ordinations

4. Etc.

As we will see, there are both internal and external elements of religion, what corresponds to the thoughts and emotions of the worshipers, and what corresponds to the physical activities of the worshiper. In our next chapter we will begin examining each of these listed essentials one by one. We will show how in all these essentials that the Christian religion far excels that of all other religions.