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The background of the cross and crown of thorns symbolizing the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus Christ, and the concept of Passion Week, Lent, and Easter with a red sunset

<figure id="figure-wke9b1r8fwmb460uvw"><img id="wke9b1r8fwmb460uvw" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2049705945/photo/silhouette-of-three-crosses.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1NzvSJM4EFu4PYYbUgG3n8VKcBsXCi69ok4GL7BQzUI=" alt="Silhouette of three crosses" title="Silhouette of three crosses" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2049705945/photo/silhouette-of-three-crosses.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1NzvSJM4EFu4PYYbUgG3n8VKcBsXCi69ok4GL7BQzUI=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The central theme of the Scriptures is how God extends grace to mankind by coming into the world as a man—so that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. This is a recurring message throughout the Bible. The captivity and deliverance of the nation of Israel is a type and shadow of grace and works. The story of Jacob and Esau also represents a type and shadow of grace and works. There are many more stories in the Old Testament that convey the same theme. As I continue to learn, I will share more.<h3>The Two Thieves </h3>Luke 23:32–43 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”At arguably the worst moment of God’s human experience, His character still shined. Two guilty thieves were crucified next to the Lord.<h3>Observation 1: Both Were Guilty</h3>The Scriptures don’t provide much background on the two thieves, except the fact that they were crucified. One of them, however, acknowledged their guilt:Luke 23:41"We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve." Scripture is clear: all humans have sinned—both inherently and directly. The very moment you think you don’t actively sin is often the moment pride has set in. And pride—whether loud or subtle—is still sin.Jesus set a standard of righteousness that is impossible to meet through human effort alone. For example:Matthew 5:28 (NIV) "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." We are the thieves.<ul><li>Romans 3:23 (NIV) "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." </li><li>Ecclesiastes 7:20 (NIV) "Indeed, there is no one on earth who is righteous, no one who does what is right and never sins." </li><li>Psalm 51:5 (NIV) "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me." </li><li>1 John 1:8 (NIV) "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us." &nbsp;<h3>Observation 2: One Thief Mocked Jesus</h3>Luke 23:39 (NIV) "One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: 'Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!'"</li></ul>That thief was probably in extreme pain. But rather than focusing inwardly on his condition, he chose to mock Jesus. Interestingly, even in his mockery, he seems to acknowledge something unique about Jesus by asking Him to save both Himself and them.We see this today. Nearly all of humanity believes a man named Jesus lived over 2,000 years ago and that He was revolutionary. But that’s where many stop. As believers, we know He is far more than a historical figure. He is the Creator of the universe. He is God.<h3>&nbsp;Observation 3: The Other Thief Believed</h3>The second thief acknowledged his own guilt and recognized Jesus’ innocence. More importantly, he displayed faith in Jesus’ identity and kingdom. While we’re not entirely sure if he explicitly recognized Jesus as God, his words—“Don’t you fear God?”—imply a reverence and a belief in something beyond that moment.He had enough faith to believe that there was a kingdom after that crucifixion.<h3>Jesus Rewarded His Faith</h3><figure id="figure-q508z1cpzmb461fj1"><img id="q508z1cpzmb461fj1" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1216824578/photo/let-my-people-go-demands-moses-in-egypt.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=kP-pTuXYNzJOA4EnMzoe1wf-KzguroFZ7hSjSpikpqA=" alt="Let My People Go Demands Moses in Egypt" title="Let My People Go Demands Moses in Egypt" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1216824578/photo/let-my-people-go-demands-moses-in-egypt.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=kP-pTuXYNzJOA4EnMzoe1wf-KzguroFZ7hSjSpikpqA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Luke 23:42–43Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”As I said at the beginning, this is the theme of the Scriptures. It is the only theme of the Christian faith. Nothing can be earned from God. The very idea that we can earn something from the Almighty is an insult to His character. All we must do is believe.Jesus spoke frequently about faith. Without faith, it is impossible to please Him.These were two thieves who had spent their lives living in sin and hurting others. But in the final moments of their lives, one believed—and the other did not.It’s not a question of earning salvation. It’s not a question of deserving it. It’s not a question of fairness.Those are irrelevant.There is only one question:Do you believe in Jesus—or not?

Grace and Works: The Two Thieves at the Cross

<figure id="figure-dkv3oi80xm9gbb98m"><img id="dkv3oi80xm9gbb98m" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1320356231/photo/stained-glass-of-angels-holding-the-holy-grail.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=apmpO_a59uPk90stNnCLxGI9qEtPFhgSR8n_1kba6SI=" alt="Stained glass of angels holding the Holy Grail" title="Stained glass of angels holding the Holy Grail" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1320356231/photo/stained-glass-of-angels-holding-the-holy-grail.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=apmpO_a59uPk90stNnCLxGI9qEtPFhgSR8n_1kba6SI=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Researching the topic of liberal theology was, frankly, frustrating. But in that frustration lies an opportunity—to shift our focus back to what really matters: Christology—the study of the person and work of Jesus Christ.&nbsp;What is Theology?&nbsp; Theology means the “study of God.” The word comes from the Greek theos (God) and logos (word, study, or discourse). So, theology literally means “discourse about God.”&nbsp;Now, what is liberal theology? At face value, it implies a liberal or progressive way of studying or thinking about God. But it's more than that. The term liberal is relative. Liberal theology exists in contrast to another viewpoint—conservative theology. The key questions we must ask are:&nbsp;Does God care about this? Which version of theology best describes who God is?&nbsp; &nbsp; Elements of Liberal Theology&nbsp; <ul><li>View of Scripture: Scripture is viewed as rich in symbolism and shaped by historical context. It is not always considered inerrant or infallible.&nbsp;</li><li>Approach to Doctrine: Open to reinterpretation and doctrinal evolution over time. Traditional beliefs are not seen as static.&nbsp; </li><li>Understanding of Jesus: Focuses more on Jesus as a moral teacher and example rather than primarily on His divinity or atoning sacrifice.&nbsp;</li><li>Miracles and the Supernatural: Often reinterpreted as metaphorical or understood through modern scientific frameworks.&nbsp; </li><li>Position on Social Issues: Generally progressive—emphasizes inclusion across gender and sexuality and encourages interfaith dialogue.</li><li>Concept of Truth: Truth is seen as evolving, influenced by culture, experience, and time.&nbsp;</li></ul>Elements of Conservative Theology&nbsp;<ul><li>View of Scripture: Often interpreted literally and regarded as free from error—fully authoritative and trustworthy.</li><li>Approach to Doctrine: Rooted in long-standing creeds and resistant to changes in core beliefs.&nbsp; </li><li>Understanding of Jesus:&nbsp;Jesus is central as the divine Son of God whose death and resurrection provide salvation.&nbsp; </li><li>Miracles and the Supernatural: Fully accepted as literal, historical events that are central to the Christian faith.&nbsp; </li><li>Position on Social Issues: Typically maintains traditional views on topics like marriage, gender roles, and sanctity of life.&nbsp; </li><li>Concept of Truth: Truth is considered absolute, unchanging, and revealed by God—not shaped by culture.&nbsp; &nbsp; <h3>My Reflections</h3>View of Scripture&nbsp;</li></ul>It would be intellectually dishonest to say the Bible is entirely free from human error. It's also not a comprehensive biography of anyone except Jesus. For example, how can Abraham’s 175-year life be accurately captured in just a few chapters? It is not possible. So we don't know 99% of the life of the characters in the Scriptures.&nbsp;The Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, and has undergone extensive translation over millennia: Septuagint (Greek, c. 250–100 BCE), Latin Vulgate (c. 382–405 CE), and more. Today, it exists in over 3,600 languages. It's reasonable to conclude that some context or nuance has been lost in translation.&nbsp; Does that mean the Bible is fallible? Yes—the text itself is fallible. It didn’t fall from heaven. It was written by around 40 different human authors over 1,500 years. According to 2 Timothy 3:16–17, they were inspired by God, but not dictated to.&nbsp;And yet, here’s the miracle: these diverse authors, separated by time and culture, were all pointing to the same person—Jesus Christ. That’s why the Bible, despite its human flaws, remains the most trustworthy reference we have for knowing God. It has greater authority than visions, encounters, or religious traditions.&nbsp;Both liberal and conservative theology often miss this: the Bible is about Jesus. It must be interpreted with Him as the central figure—not debated endlessly over historical details or peripheral doctrines.&nbsp; &nbsp; Approach to Doctrine&nbsp; The central doctrine is Jesus. Everything else must be measured by Him.&nbsp; The danger of conservative theology is that it can become rigid, resistant to fresh insight about Jesus, even when it comes from Scripture. On the flip side, liberal theology often opens the door to endless reinterpretation that may drift away from Christ altogether.&nbsp;Jesus must be the absolute. Paul, Peter, David, and the others were inspired, but they are not the standard. Their teachings must be evaluated in light of Jesus’ words and actions. For example, Paul said women should be silent in church—but what would Jesus say? What was Paul’s context?&nbsp; In this sense, liberal theology is correct: we must be open to evolving. But that evolution must be anchored in Christ.&nbsp; &nbsp; Understanding of Jesus&nbsp;<figure id="figure-b4dj7dvicwm9gap5an"><img id="b4dj7dvicwm9gap5an" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/600166380/photo/it-is-in-difficult-times-that-he-carries-you.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=TxgnNG8T_6XADhfZwcpOdwaGhwCI1vN3S1JBZAgcEI0=" alt="It is in difficult times that He carries you" title="It is in difficult times that He carries you" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/600166380/photo/it-is-in-difficult-times-that-he-carries-you.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=TxgnNG8T_6XADhfZwcpOdwaGhwCI1vN3S1JBZAgcEI0=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure> Liberal theology often reduces Jesus to just a great moral teacher. But the beauty of Jesus' moral teaching is that we can’t live up to it—not without Him.&nbsp; "Unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees... you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven." — Matthew 5:20&nbsp;This is the entire point of grace. Jesus didn’t just teach morality—He embodied righteousness and gifted it to us through faith. This is where conservative theology is closer to the truth, though not always perfect in its expression.&nbsp; &nbsp; Miracles and the Supernatural&nbsp; If we don’t believe in miracles, we don’t believe in God. Yes, miracles can carry deeper meanings, but that doesn’t make them less real. Miracles still happen. To dismiss them is to dismiss faith itself.&nbsp; &nbsp; Position on Social Issues&nbsp;<figure id="figure-e89o9yuzcm9gasw2p" class=""><img id="e89o9yuzcm9gasw2p" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/104939553/photo/conquest-of-jerusalem-by-charlemagne.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=3LPrCu0cuf__uvR1r6SZAas0PUErgcyFdfaVgbCb4ZA=" alt="Conquest of Jerusalem by Charlemagne" title="Conquest of Jerusalem by Charlemagne" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/104939553/photo/conquest-of-jerusalem-by-charlemagne.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=3LPrCu0cuf__uvR1r6SZAas0PUErgcyFdfaVgbCb4ZA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>This is where things get even more complicated. Today, many Christian leaders stay silent about real atrocities—like the killing of innocent civilians by military forces (e.g., in the Israel-Palestine conflict). Historically, this isn’t new. Religion has often been used to justify violence:&nbsp;<ul><li>The Crusades (1096–1291): Christians waged war in the name of reclaiming the Holy Land.&nbsp;</li><li>The Inquisition: Torture and executions of heretics, Jews, Muslims, and scientists.&nbsp;</li><li>Witch Hunts: Brutal killings of alleged witches, often without evidence.&nbsp;</li><li>Religious Wars in Europe: Millions died over denominational differences.&nbsp;</li><li>Colonial Conversions: Forced conversions in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.&nbsp;</li></ul><figure id="figure-5l243rg3lcm9gba5q0"><img id="5l243rg3lcm9gba5q0" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/982579896/photo/old-couple-rear-view-in-church-keeping-the-sunlight-beam-out-of-his-eyes.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=KptJ_bkPNCzqQoUqpk3Y62cVubS0KbpAxKxeb7YkBPA=" alt="Old couple rear view in church keeping the sunlight beam out of his eyes" title="Old couple rear view in church keeping the sunlight beam out of his eyes" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/982579896/photo/old-couple-rear-view-in-church-keeping-the-sunlight-beam-out-of-his-eyes.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=KptJ_bkPNCzqQoUqpk3Y62cVubS0KbpAxKxeb7YkBPA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>This violence was committed in God’s name, but not in God’s character.&nbsp;"The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." — Galatians 5:22–23&nbsp;"Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father." — John 14:9&nbsp;The character of God is revealed in the Man, Jesus, not in the political or military agendas of nations or churches.&nbsp; Hebrews 1:3 (ESV)&nbsp; "He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature..."&nbsp;Colossians 1:15 (NIV)&nbsp; "The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation."&nbsp;John 14:9 (NIV)&nbsp; Jesus answered: "Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father."&nbsp;So, while conservative theology clings to traditional moral stances, it has also—historically and presently—been weaponized. &nbsp;Core elements of the fruit of the Spirit have been minimized for the illusion of doctrinal purity. Elements like love, kindness, Compassion etc. So, the debate really is which evil is more acceptable? For example,&nbsp;<ul><li>Abortion or Capital punishment? &nbsp;</li><li>Gay marriage OR stoning them on the street? &nbsp;</li><li>Witchcraft or burning alive of another Human being?</li><li>Etc.&nbsp;</li></ul>None of this is about Jesus. The debates are expression of self-righteousness. Jesus loves EVERYBODY. John 3:16&nbsp;&nbsp;My Conclusion&nbsp;<figure id="figure-q80pxaseksm9gbyx4t"><img id="q80pxaseksm9gbyx4t" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32Tu2m13DDx93iaQsLFl5qB36jfO0URhPxBjqGcE20Wn5vjUYp7YyCITbJp2fWyV.png" alt="Preacher reading from holy bible in church" title="Preacher reading from holy bible in church" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32Tu2m13DDx93iaQsLFl5qB36jfO0URhPxBjqGcE20Wn5vjUYp7YyCITbJp2fWyV.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Most people fall somewhere on a spectrum between liberal and conservative theology. But God doesn’t live at the extremes of any ideology. The Bible was written in ancient time, for ancient audiences, and in ancient languages. We must interpret it wisely, carefully, and always through the lens of Christ. That’s why researching liberal theology was so frustrating—because the debate often misses the entire point of Christianity. The Christian faith is not about moral perfection, sinless perfection, social ideology, or doctrinal superiority. Doctrinal purity does not exist (Not even in the Bible). It’s about restored relationship with God.&nbsp; It’s about Jesus.&nbsp; It’s about grace.&nbsp; And it’s about faith in the One who fulfilled the law so we could be free (including freedom to have an ideology).&nbsp; When liberal and conservative theologians argue, they're often just debating works. But work doesn't save. Jesus does. Good Works is a byproduct of ongoing relationship with Jesus. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Liberal Theology: Symptoms of A Bigger Program

<figure id="figure-730kqa1kxdm91c21zm"><img id="730kqa1kxdm91c21zm" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/184132508/photo/rocky-setting-at-mount-of-temptation.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=pNCq-cux768YoXGXXVAUDVFE3Pr81U_IuG4Mio2krvc=" alt="Rocky setting at Mount of Temptation" title="Rocky setting at Mount of Temptation" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/184132508/photo/rocky-setting-at-mount-of-temptation.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=pNCq-cux768YoXGXXVAUDVFE3Pr81U_IuG4Mio2krvc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>So far,we have examined the following<a data-mce-href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/is-religion-a-tool-for-control--exploring-modern-church-enslavement" href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/is-religion-a-tool-for-control--exploring-modern-church-enslavement" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Part 1: Is Religion a Tool for Control? Exploring Modern Church Enslavement&nbsp;</a> We introduced the idea that the enslavement of Israel was a prediction of the evolution of the modern Church.&nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/from-shackles-to-pews--how-the-modern-church-sustains-systems-of-control" href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/from-shackles-to-pews--how-the-modern-church-sustains-systems-of-control">Part 2: From Shackles to Pews: How the Modern Church Sustains Systems of Control </a>; We argued that the elements of slavery are all found in today’s modern church.<a data-mce-href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/the-idols-of-egypt--a-warning-for-the-modern-church" href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/the-idols-of-egypt--a-warning-for-the-modern-church">Part 3: The Idols of Egypt: A Warning for the Modern Church</a>; We explained how idol worship prevented God from taking many of the Israelites to the Promised Land and how this remains a significant issue in today’s church.&nbsp; &nbsp; What Is the Point of All of This?&nbsp;Exodus 3:8 (KJV):&nbsp; "And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey."&nbsp;This statement by God sums up the entire scripture, but we need to examine it more closely to fully understand its significance.&nbsp;Exodus 5:1:&nbsp; "And afterward Moses and Aaron went in, and told Pharaoh, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Let my people go, that they may hold a feast unto me in the wilderness."&nbsp; Exodus 8:1 (NIV):&nbsp; "Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Go to Pharaoh and say to him, “This is what the Lord says: Let my people go, so that they may worship me.”’"&nbsp; God used three words interchangeably: Serve, Worship, and Feast. Since He used them interchangeably, they must carry the same meaning. To serve God is to worship Him. To worship God is to feast unto Him.&nbsp;Serve = Worship = Feast.&nbsp; Understanding Worship&nbsp;<ul><li>Shachah (Hebrew): To bow down, prostrate oneself (Psalm 95:6). This refers both literally and figuratively to humbling oneself before God in reverence and submission.&nbsp;</li><li>Ābad (Hebrew): Service, labor, work (Exodus 8:1). This is the context of Jesus’ instruction to Moses.&nbsp;</li></ul><figure id="figure-y3r38bl9mm91c2twt"><img id="y3r38bl9mm91c2twt" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/667802574/photo/you-are-never-truly-alone-if-you-have-faith.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=unJ8-TtToOpR98x2wClsWyJhqUbmRExBu4B1OSku-Oc=" alt="You are never truly alone if you have faith" title="You are never truly alone if you have faith" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/667802574/photo/you-are-never-truly-alone-if-you-have-faith.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=unJ8-TtToOpR98x2wClsWyJhqUbmRExBu4B1OSku-Oc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Worship is humbling ourselves before God—literally or figuratively—in submission, to serve and labor for Him. The Israelites were already doing this for Pharaoh, but now God was demanding their freedom so that they could serve Him.&nbsp;Matthew 11:30 (NIV):&nbsp; "For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."&nbsp;You are serving and laboring for God when you do His will against your Humanistic instincts. Example; Loving your enemy would be your act of worship. Being kind and good to everyone would be your act of worship. Being generous to the homeless would be your act of worship.<h3>What Makes Worship Acceptable to God?&nbsp; </h3>John 4:23-24 (KJV):&nbsp; "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth."&nbsp;In Spirit&nbsp; Acceptable worship must be done in spirit. I once thought this meant worship inspired by the Holy Spirit. But in context (John 4:7-26), Jesus was saying worship is no longer tied to a physical place like Jerusalem because God is spirit.&nbsp;He desires worship based solely on faith, without physical references.&nbsp; This means the church must move away from symbolisms—crosses, anointing oil, prayer shawls, etc.—as they can and will lead to idolatry. At the very least, we know God does not desire worship through physical means. We have direct access to Him. Hebrews 11:6 (KJV):&nbsp; "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." In Truth&nbsp; Worshiping God in truth means worshiping Him with the revelation of Jesus and His mission.&nbsp; Exodus 5:1:&nbsp; "Let my people go, that they may hold a feast unto me in the wilderness."&nbsp;There are seven feasts that God introduced to the Israelites in the wilderness. Their purpose was to reveal Jesus Christ, the Truth (not to be repeated by believers after fulfillment): &nbsp;<figure id="figure-pk2x2b4jxm91ca50j"><img id="pk2x2b4jxm91ca50j" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2067494980/photo/a-man-celebrates-the-jewish-holiday-of-passover.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=YG7tN__R-3DGCKDGwnt6qKwKmx_SgHHrARCpEfm3VVc=" alt="A man celebrates the Jewish holiday of Passover" title="A man celebrates the Jewish holiday of Passover" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2067494980/photo/a-man-celebrates-the-jewish-holiday-of-passover.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=YG7tN__R-3DGCKDGwnt6qKwKmx_SgHHrARCpEfm3VVc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><ol><li style="">Passover (Pesach) – (1 Corinthians 5:7).&nbsp;</li><li style="">Unleavened Bread (Chag HaMatzot) – (1 Corinthians 5:8). </li><li style="">Firstfruits (Yom HaBikkurim) – (1 Corinthians 15:20). </li><li style="">Pentecost (Shavuot) – (Acts 2). </li><li style="">Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah / Rosh Hashanah) – (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). </li><li style="">Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). </li><li style="">Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot).&nbsp; </li></ol>The Land Flowing with Milk and Honey&nbsp;<figure id="figure-69auuf4zam91cbg41" class=""><img id="69auuf4zam91cbg41" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1472352662/photo/the-watchman-zion-national-park-utah-usa-sunset.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=wi9sc5iHfCgjpuN6fup0nlvsXbAiV0uARN88hkVQ0Zg=" alt="The Watchman Zion National Park Utah USA Sunset" title="The Watchman Zion National Park Utah USA Sunset" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1472352662/photo/the-watchman-zion-national-park-utah-usa-sunset.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=wi9sc5iHfCgjpuN6fup0nlvsXbAiV0uARN88hkVQ0Zg=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The plan from the beginning was to bring them to a land flowing with milk and honey. Canaan was not literally overflowing with rivers of milk and honey, but it was a fertile land, rich in resources, capable of sustaining livestock (milk) and producing abundant crops (honey). The phrase served both as a literal description of the land’s prosperity and a metaphor for something deeper.&nbsp; Genesis 12:7:&nbsp; "The Lord appeared to Abram and said, 'To your offspring I will give this land (Canaan).' So he built an altar there to the Lord, who had appeared to him."&nbsp;Paul later explained that this offspring was Jesus.&nbsp;Galatians 3:16 (NIV):&nbsp; "The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. The Scripture does not say 'and to seeds,' meaning many people, but 'and to your seed,' meaning one person, who is Christ."&nbsp;Canaan represents a place of intimacy with Jesus Christ. It is a place of communion with Him, full knowledge of God, and God’s rest. It is place where humans get the full reality of Jesus.&nbsp;The first prototype of this land flowing with milk and honey was the Garden of Eden—a place of abundance and intimacy between God and man.&nbsp; Genesis 3:8 (NIV):&nbsp;"Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden."&nbsp;God and man coexisted in Eden, making it the first true place of intimacy with God.&nbsp;Returning to Zion&nbsp;While many people believe that the prophecies about Zion refer to a physical restoration of Jerusalem (possibly but irrelevant), their true message is that Jesus will restore relationship and intimacy with His people.&nbsp;Zechariah 8:3 (NIV):&nbsp; "This is what the Lord says: 'I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem.'"&nbsp; Psalm 126:1-3 (NIV):&nbsp; "When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy."&nbsp; JESUS IS THE KING OF ZION.<figure id="figure-t0sxehg4rbm91cdkl2"><img id="t0sxehg4rbm91cdkl2" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1997124335/photo/jesus-christ.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1CJk_RcK6iz8yENCKiCZxur32mHBvILQ9SqOTAAvGG8=" alt="Jesus Christ" title="Jesus Christ" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1997124335/photo/jesus-christ.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1CJk_RcK6iz8yENCKiCZxur32mHBvILQ9SqOTAAvGG8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Genesis 14:18-20 Melchizedek means King of Righteousness. He was also described as the King of Salem. Salem was the Old Jerusalem which was in canaan. It means the King of Peace. He was without beginning or end. Melchizedek serves as a divine prototype of Christ, revealing Jesus as our ultimate King, High Priest, and Mediator before God. Hebrews 7&nbsp; Conclusion&nbsp;The whole theme of the scriptures is the restoration of the Intimacy between Jesus and His people.&nbsp;God desires His people to be free—free from sin, legalism, and religious oppression. He has paid the price for our freedom. We need to be free to truly know Him and to worship Him.Idolatry can hinder the plans of God because we are now free to choose. Idolatry will take us back to slavery. True worship must be done by faith (no physical references) and in truth (the revelation of Jesus Christ). This will take place ONLY at Zion, where the King is waiting.&nbsp;Jeremiah 31:31-34 (NIV):&nbsp; "The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel... I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people."&nbsp;

Let My People Go....Back to Zion

<figure id="figure-n3fv8s57mm8jiky2i"><img id="n3fv8s57mm8jiky2i" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1394310836/photo/the-scene-inside-the-bright-church.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=74Otyj4i9tOn7HzSZGb9mobnYUgSuAPCWKFeIcRwLl4=" alt="The scene inside the bright Church" title="The scene inside the bright Church" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1394310836/photo/the-scene-inside-the-bright-church.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=74Otyj4i9tOn7HzSZGb9mobnYUgSuAPCWKFeIcRwLl4=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure> While meditating on the similarities between the Israelites' enslavement in Egypt and the modern church, I came across a perplexing question: Why was the almighty God unable to fully deliver Israel out of Egypt? This question may shed light on why believers and the church today find themselves in a similar struggle.&nbsp;To put things into proper perspective, around 600,000 men left Egypt, and if we factor in women and children, it's estimated that between 1 million to 2 million Israelites left Egypt. After doubting God, God declared that everyone above the age of 20 would die in the wilderness, except Caleb and Joshua. We can estimate that around 1 million Israelites died in the wilderness. If God promised to take them to the promised land, what changed? I have a theory: Egypt never left them.&nbsp;In simpler terms, they never fully embraced the freedom God had given them. They still clung to the mindset, culture, and practices of Egypt, even after God had freed them.&nbsp; &nbsp; <h3>The gods of Egypt&nbsp; </h3><figure id="figure-2ih1is38gcm8jiqhf9"><img id="2ih1is38gcm8jiqhf9" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2188890216/photo/luxor-temple-luxor-city-egypt-africa-the-hieroglyphs-and-carvings-inside-the-temple.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=0isFK7x7zMDTKzTtrDoPyK6RMHeX1jWLmP-XaAY9lag=" alt="Luxor Temple, Luxor City, Egypt, Africa, the Hieroglyphs and carvings inside the temple." title="Luxor Temple, Luxor City, Egypt, Africa, the Hieroglyphs and carvings inside the temple." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2188890216/photo/luxor-temple-luxor-city-egypt-africa-the-hieroglyphs-and-carvings-inside-the-temple.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=0isFK7x7zMDTKzTtrDoPyK6RMHeX1jWLmP-XaAY9lag=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The gods of Egypt were very prominent at that time. God dealt with them through the 9 plagues—each one undermining the power of Egypt's gods. Perhaps that's a topic we can explore later. The issue, however, was that the Israelites did not let go of Egypt’s idols. They kept the influence of Egypt alive in their hearts. The most notable example is the golden calf, forged shortly after God delivered them. The calf mirrored Egyptian religious practices, particularly the worship of the bull-god Apis (one of Egypt's gods).&nbsp;<ul><li>Ezekiel 20:7-8 – God recounts how He commanded the Israelites to abandon the detestable practices and idols of Egypt, but they rebelled and did not forsake them.&nbsp;</li><li>Joshua 24:14 – Joshua urges the Israelites to fear the Lord and serve Him sincerely, instructing them to put away the gods their ancestors worshipped in Egypt. Despite 40 years in the wilderness, they still refused to let go of those idols.&nbsp;</li><li>Exodus 32:1-4 – While Moses was on Mount Sinai, the Israelites made a golden calf, reminiscent of Egyptian idol worship, and proclaimed it as the god who brought them out of Egypt.</li><li>Acts 7:39-41 – In his speech, Stephen recalls that the Israelites refused to obey Moses, turned back to Egypt in their hearts, and made a calf to offer sacrifices to it.</li><li>Scholars note that ancient Israel practiced monolatry—acknowledging the existence of multiple deities but worshiping Yahweh exclusively. This perspective suggests that while the Israelites were devoted to Yahweh, they still recognized and sometimes embraced other gods, including those of Egypt.&nbsp;</li></ul>Egypt’s Lifestyle: They Missed the Egyptian Food One of the more striking examples of Israel's lack of freedom is their desire for Egypt's food. After being freed, they began to long for the food they had in Egypt:&nbsp; Numbers 11:4-6 (NKJV)&nbsp; &nbsp;“Now the mixed multitude who were among them yielded to intense craving; so the children of Israel also wept again and said: 'Who will give us meat to eat? We remember the fish which we ate freely in Egypt, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic; but now our whole being is dried up; there is nothing at all except this manna before our eyes!'”&nbsp;You would think that if God could provide manna directly from the sky, He could also provide garlic and onions. Yet, the point here is that Israel never embraced the freedom God gave them. True freedom comes with responsibility. At every small obstacle, they wanted to return to slavery. &nbsp; The Modern Church&nbsp;<figure id="figure-nbusc1itdm8jkbz9r"><img id="nbusc1itdm8jkbz9r" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/182786940/photo/applauding.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=HdaWf8vVArSnych9yd-6FHGI0YR1A4dUmKyPNk170xQ=" alt="Applauding" title="Applauding" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/182786940/photo/applauding.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=HdaWf8vVArSnych9yd-6FHGI0YR1A4dUmKyPNk170xQ=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>How is this relevant to the modern church today? The mission of our Lord Jesus could not have been clearer.&nbsp; He came to set us free.&nbsp;John 8:36 (NIV) – “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”&nbsp;Galatians 5:1 (NIV) – “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”&nbsp;He came to fulfill the law. The requirements of the law are completely obsolete.&nbsp;Romans 10:4 (NIV) – “Christ is the culmination of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.”&nbsp;Instead, we are saved by faith in Him—not by our works.&nbsp; Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”&nbsp;I guess some things haven’t changed. Because all He ever asked Israel to do was to trust Him. Yet, at any small obstacle, we, like Israel, often revert to our animalistic instincts. We start to believe that we can earn things from God. We believe we can earn financial blessings, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, or even God’s anointing. We fall into the trap of trying to impress God with our works.&nbsp;Works vs. Grace&nbsp;<figure id="figure-u78ri3bjkgm8jinf76" class=""><img id="u78ri3bjkgm8jinf76" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1844647747/photo/jesus-christ.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1W3nAFUV-r22muTGHzdkEWfrePWQOJVIcfG7rzYClFs=" alt="Jesus Christ" title="Jesus Christ" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1844647747/photo/jesus-christ.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1W3nAFUV-r22muTGHzdkEWfrePWQOJVIcfG7rzYClFs=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Why did God hate idol worship so much? God is not intimidated by objects that people create and worship. Here’s my theory: At the heart of idol worship is works, not grace. Idol worship occurs when people place their trust in something other than God—whether it’s physical idols, false gods, or even worldly possessions.&nbsp;In today’s age, idol worship is more subtle than ever, and unfortunately, it’s present in the church. Here are a few examples of things that can easily replace full trust in God:&nbsp; <ul><li>Self-Righteousness – You may not verbally brag about it, but deep down, you think your holiness is better than someone else’s. Jesus' attitude toward self righteous pharisees could not have been any more clearer.&nbsp;</li><li>Faith in Things – Anointing oil, handkerchiefs, prayer water, cloths (from someone you consider more anointed than yourself), Holy Communion, even the altar of your church.</li><li>Location – Some Christians believe that there is special anointing or power in Israel. Ministers often visit the burial sites of their heroes of faith. Location (including your church building) can be an idol.</li><li>Tithes &amp; Offerings – Many Christians believe God will bless them because they give, making their faith in their offerings rather than in God Himself.</li><li>Prayer and Fasting – Often, we believe that fasting is what will get God's attention.&nbsp;</li></ul>Any of these can lead to legalism before God, which is ultimately a form of pride. Legalism is about self-reliance—trusting in our actions to earn God’s favor. Trusting in physical things that we can feel or touch. This content isn’t entirely about works vs. grace, but perhaps at a later time, we’ll explore this more in-depth.&nbsp;In Conclusion&nbsp; The Egyptian culture and lifestyle centered around idol worship, and in the New Testament, that represents works—the opposite of grace. The problem Israel faced wasn’t just the physical location of Egypt or Pharaoh’s oppression. The deeper issue was that they adopted Egypt’s lifestyle and worshiped the same gods. God could not force Israel to trust Him or Embrace His Grace. That is not in His Character. God did many signs and wonders to show them who He was, just like He did signs and wonders in the New Testament. It was not enough. The disciples still left Him when the Romans came. Egypt was part of their identity.&nbsp; Egypt is still part of our identity in the New Testament. A complete renewal of mind is necessary to achieve this. It was not going to happen right away, but Israel was also not willing.&nbsp;As believers, it is Jesus OR Nothing.So, what’s the point of all these?&nbsp;Exodus 8:1 (NIV) – “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Go to Pharaoh and say to him, ‘This is what the Lord says: Let my people go, so that they may worship me.’”&nbsp;This is what it’s all about. God desires worship. In the Promised Land, in freedom.&nbsp; In the next and final part, we will explore a few important questions:<ul><li>&nbsp;What did God mean by “Worship Him”?</li><li>&nbsp;Why did Israel need to be free to worship Him?</li><li>Why was Freedom From Egypt Not enough? (answered here)</li><li>Where did God intend for Israel to worship Him, and what did it mean?</li><li>How is this relevant today?&nbsp; &nbsp;</li></ul>

The Idols of Egypt: A Warning for the Modern Church

Aerial view of cathedral and park from Saint Patrick's Park-Dublin, Aerial view of historic St. Patrick's Cathedral in the heart of Ireland, Christ Church Cathedral, Aerial view of people walking in saint Patrick park, Public park fountain

<figure id="figure-1pkor4z3u8m8blw7mp"><img id="1pkor4z3u8m8blw7mp" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/115979267/photo/orange-highlights-in-a-church-interior-with-cross.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=QsQ3hhN6fAEqjIZPXPWD7nUzr3dYJMf3C7dk_A5lceM=" alt="Orange highlights in a church interior with cross" title="Orange highlights in a church interior with cross" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/115979267/photo/orange-highlights-in-a-church-interior-with-cross.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=QsQ3hhN6fAEqjIZPXPWD7nUzr3dYJMf3C7dk_A5lceM=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Introduction &amp; Disclaimer&nbsp;</h3>The goal of this piece is not to criticize any church, minister, or denomination. I understand that this is a sensitive topic, and as someone raised in the church, I recognize the instinct to defend the modern church system. I firmly believe that the gates of hell will not prevail against the church. However, the church must evolve—not through cultural compromise, but by returning to the pure teachings of Christ.&nbsp;This discussion is meant to challenge believers to seek a deeper, more intimate relationship with Jesus and remain open to continuous learning and growth. Jesus, in His infinite wisdom, must have foresee the challenges the church would face, and like all living things, the church is meant to grow and transform. But the question remains: Are we growing in Christ, or are we merely expanding institutions?&nbsp;How does the Mordern Church mirrors the Israel's Slavery in the Scriptures?&nbsp; <h3>Loss of Freedom &amp; Autonomy&nbsp;</h3>The Israelites in Egypt had no control over their lives. Pharaoh dictated their labor, living conditions, and even sought to control their population (Exodus 1:8-14, 22).&nbsp;Today, many Christian institutions function similarly, imposing strict guidelines on how people should live, what they should believe, and even how they should think. This influence extends into politics, where members are urged—or outright told—who to vote for under the guise of religious duty.&nbsp; The concept of holiness is often weaponized to justify rigid rules on dress, behavior, and lifestyle, reinforcing conformity over conviction. Questioning religious leaders is discouraged, creating an environment where pastors are revered rather than held accountable.&nbsp;Moreover, some churches instill fear by teaching that leaving the faith leads to damnation. Instead of fostering a genuine relationship with God, this creates a system where people remain not out of faith, but out of fear—bound to the institution rather than free in Christ. &nbsp; <h3>Forced Labor&nbsp;</h3><figure id="figure-v1ork35xrm8blyshy"><img id="v1ork35xrm8blyshy" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1764505290/photo/cage-fence-grasp-hand-monochrome-imprisonment.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=XY7AJZhnyKaXxWoSoxKbpCctv8Nq--bnz4CboaOsZIY=" alt="cage, fence, grasp, hand, monochrome, imprisonment" title="cage, fence, grasp, hand, monochrome, imprisonment" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1764505290/photo/cage-fence-grasp-hand-monochrome-imprisonment.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=XY7AJZhnyKaXxWoSoxKbpCctv8Nq--bnz4CboaOsZIY=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The Israelites were forced into backbreaking labor, building cities for Pharaoh with no compensation (Exodus 1:11-14).&nbsp;While modern churches do not enforce physical labor, many religious institutions demand unpaid service in the name of God. Members are expected to give their time, money, and energy to the church—sometimes under manipulative pressure.&nbsp;Serving the church is equated with serving God, but in many cases, believers are actually working to fulfill their pastor’s vision rather than a divine calling. Donations can feel less like acts of faith and more like spiritual obligations, often tied to promises of blessings or warnings of consequences.&nbsp;Service to the church isn’t inherently wrong. The problem arises when manipulation replaces true devotion, turning what should be a joyful offering into coerced labor. &nbsp;<h3>Dehumanization&nbsp;</h3>Pharaoh saw the Israelites as a threat and stripped them of their humanity, reducing them to laborers and even ordering the death of their newborn sons (Exodus 1:16, 22).&nbsp;Some Christian institutions prioritize organizational growth over individual well-being, functioning like corporations rather than communities of faith. Members are treated as replaceable rather than valued as unique individuals.&nbsp; This contradicts the biblical concept of the Body of Christ, where every member plays an essential role (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). Jesus modeled a radically different approach:&nbsp;“If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?” — Matthew 18:12-14 (NIV)&nbsp;True Christianity values the one just as much as the ninety-nine.&nbsp; <h3>Coercion &amp; Fear&nbsp;</h3>The Egyptian taskmasters beat and oppressed the Israelites when they failed to meet quotas (Exodus 5:14-16). .&nbsp;<figure id="figure-tlbapng9ym8b1fz2z" class=""><img id="tlbapng9ym8b1fz2z" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/68Lb39xwToEVyRB3jK2GiMBneNq9lIbyNca4pcXH1U6jSRWu2Eo7f2aUm2X5pROI.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/68Lb39xwToEVyRB3jK2GiMBneNq9lIbyNca4pcXH1U6jSRWu2Eo7f2aUm2X5pROI.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>While physical violence is rare in modern churches, psychological and emotional coercion is common. Fear of hell, demonic attacks, or divine punishment is used to keep believers in line. Excommunication, public shaming, and social exclusion function as modern punishments for those who question church authority. In some rural part of the world, physical violence (disguised as discipline)is still a common practice.&nbsp;Instead of fostering true faith, these tactics enslave the mind. But Jesus did not come to establish a kingdom of fear—He came to offer grace, freedom,&nbsp;<h3>Slavery was a Business.</h3>The Israelites built the cities of Pithom and Rameses yet received no compensation (Exodus 1:11).&nbsp;Similarly, many churches today operate like businesses, profiting off their members while claiming spiritual authority. Mega-church pastors live in luxury while struggling members are pressured to “sow seeds” in hopes of receiving blessings. The prosperity gospel exploits the poor, teaching that financial giving leads to divine rewards.&nbsp;Many of the departments in the Church actually mimicks business practices.&nbsp;Jesus never demanded money in exchange for miracles or favor. In fact, He rebuked religious leaders who exploited the people (Matthew 23:4, Mark 12:38-40).&nbsp;A biblical parallel is the story of Simon the Sorcerer in Acts 8:18-22. Simon offered money to receive the power of the Holy Spirit, but Peter rebuked him sharply, saying:&nbsp;“May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money!” (Acts 8:20, NIV)&nbsp;Yet today, the gifts of God are being sold for profit. Pastors charge for conferences, books, and courses promising “How to Prophesy” or “How to Operate in Healing”—turning ministry into a business. At what point does service turn into exploitation? <h3>Social &amp; Political Control&nbsp;</h3>Religious institutions have long influenced laws, politics, and society, often dictating morality based on doctrine rather than personal faith.&nbsp;The Evangelical Influence on U.S. Politics&nbsp;In modern America, evangelical Christians wield enormous influence over national policies. This became evident with Donald Trump’s presidency, where over 80% of white evangelicals supported him—not necessarily for his moral character, but for his political alignment with their interests. Their primary goals included overturning Roe v. Wade, promoting religious freedom laws favoring Christian institutions, and securing conservative Supreme Court justices.&nbsp;However, this power has extended beyond legislation. The rise of Christian Nationalism seeks to position America as a Christian nation, pushing for laws that align more with church doctrine than democratic principles. Prayer in schools, state-endorsed religious programs, and policies favoring one faith over others all point to a dangerous fusion of church and state.&nbsp; All of these are not inherently a bad thing.&nbsp;When the Church Became the State Religion&nbsp;<figure id="figure-3ezod8jfxwm8bm99s3"><img id="3ezod8jfxwm8bm99s3" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2164813538/photo/american-flag-with-religious-cross-on-church-wall.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=RE5ufVOPw_g5pkjiY1KkKoVmYnb1OALPJiEoyVVYHCs=" alt="American flag with religious cross on church wall" title="American flag with religious cross on church wall" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>The marriage of religion and government is nothing new. In 380 AD, Emperor Theodosius I declared Christianity the official religion of Rome, leading to centuries of forced conversions, persecution of dissenters, and religiously enforced laws.&nbsp;History warns us what happens when faith is weaponized for control. The modern evangelical movement risks repeating this pattern—not seeking true spiritual revival, but political dominance. And what is political control but another form of slavery?&nbsp; <h3>The Self-Sustaining System&nbsp;</h3>The Israelites were enslaved for 400 years because the system of oppression outlived individual rulers. It was bigger than any one Pharaoh—it was self-sustaining. Similarly, the modern church system is not dependent on any one leader. It is upheld by tradition, structure, and institutional frameworks. It starts from the denomination leader, Lead and local pastors, Ministers, Ministry Leaders, Workers etc. Many churches today could continue functioning without Christ, simply because they operate more like corporations than living faith communities.&nbsp; It is a well oiled machine.&nbsp; <h3>Final Thoughts&nbsp;</h3>It is necessary to draw the similarities between what happened in the scriptures and what is going on today. The modern church has done much good, but it is not immune to human corruption and control. Christianity is not about fear, obligation, or blind obedience—it’s about love, grace, and freedom in Christ.&nbsp;“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” — Galatians 5:1 (NIV)&nbsp; We will not look into how God delivered the israelite. We are all familiar with the story. However, delivering Israel from Egypt was the easy part. The real challenge was getting Egypt out of Israel. In the next part, we will explore how hard it was for Egypt to leave Israel. &nbsp;Why was God never able to fully deliver Egypt out of Israel?" &nbsp;

From Shackles to Pews: How The Modern Church Sustains Systems of Control

<figure id="figure-09mpt32l7fm79hrrpt"><img id="09mpt32l7fm79hrrpt" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/176001440/photo/revolution.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=-OQOCP6dqKf6ZKZQrcJTRblDTM6Qu_vm-S3G0NMoH1U=" alt="Revolution" title="Revolution" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/176001440/photo/revolution.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=-OQOCP6dqKf6ZKZQrcJTRblDTM6Qu_vm-S3G0NMoH1U=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>“If slavery was outlawed, why do so many people still live in bondage?”In recent weeks, I’ve been reflecting on one of the most significant events in Scripture—the enslavement of the Israelites in Egypt. If you’ve spent any time in the church, you're likely familiar with the story of how Israel was enslaved in Egypt. But what does this have to do with the state of the “Modern Church”? I’ll be using the term "Modern Church" frequently because it's crucial to distinguish between what we have now and the church as it was immediately after the resurrection of Jesus.<h3>The Enslavement of Israel: A Brief Overview</h3>Around 1876 BC, Jacob (Israel) and his sons moved to Egypt due to a severe famine (Genesis 46:1-7). Joseph, one of Jacob’s sons, had been sold into slavery by his brothers but later rose to power as Pharaoh’s right-hand man. He invited his family to settle in Goshen, a fertile land in Egypt (Genesis 45:9-11). The Israelites prospered and grew in Egypt (Exodus 1:7).After Joseph’s death, a new Pharaoh came to power who “did not know Joseph” (Exodus 1:8). He saw the growing Israelite population as a threat and enslaved them, forcing them into hard labor (Exodus 1:11-14). Pharaoh also ordered the killing of all Hebrew male babies (Exodus 1:15-22).Moses was born during this time, and to escape Pharaoh’s decree, he was placed in a basket on the Nile (Exodus 2:1-10). Later, God called Moses to demand the Israelites' freedom (Exodus 3:1-12), and after Pharaoh’s refusal, God sent the Ten Plagues upon Egypt (Exodus 7-12), culminating in the death of the firstborns. The Israelites were spared by marking their doors with lamb’s blood (Exodus 12:13).Finally, Pharaoh released the Israelites (Exodus 12:31-36), but after changing his mind, pursued them. God parted the Red Sea, allowing the Israelites to escape, while Pharaoh’s army drowned (Exodus 14:21-31). The Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years (Numbers 14:33-34), receiving the Ten Commandments and eventually reaching the Promised Land under Joshua (Joshua 1:1-9).<h3>Old Testament vs. New Testament: A Shadow of Jesus Christ</h3>Debates often arise about the historical accuracy of Old Testament stories, but such discussions miss the point. The Old Testament is full of types and shadows pointing to the real subject of Scripture—Jesus Christ. The Bible isn’t just a historical account; it’s the biography of Jesus. And when you read it through that lens, even the stories of Israel’s slavery in Egypt come alive with profound meaning.Did these events happen exactly as written? Perhaps not in every detail. But the message remains clear and powerful: God desires to free His people, not just from physical slavery, but from the deeper bondage of sin and religion.<h3>Slavery and Religion: A Parallel for Today </h3>In Exodus, God commands Pharaoh through Moses: “Let My people go, that they may serve Me” (Exodus 8:1). This isn’t just about the Israelites’ physical liberation; it’s a prophetic symbol of God’s desire to free His people from the bondage of sin and religious systems. Egypt represents oppression and slavery, just as sin binds humanity, keeping us from a true, intimate relationship with God.God’s ultimate goal is freedom—freedom to worship Him in spirit and truth. “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” (John 4:23). It was never about religious perfection, but about intimacy with God. Pharaoh’s hardened heart mirrors the resistance of the flesh and the religious structures that oppose God’s true intent. Jesus speaks to this when He says, “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).The journey of the Israelites out of Egypt was only the beginning. Despite their deliverance, they continually wished to return to Egypt, where they were enslaved. This is the same pattern we see in the church today. Jesus came 2,000 years ago to set us free from sin and religion, declaring, “It is finished.” But many of us still yearn for the institutions that enslaved us—much like the Israelites longed for Egypt after being freed.<h3>The Church Today: A Reflection of Israel’s Enslavement</h3>Over the centuries, the church has been entangled with worldly political systems and religious institutions that recreate the very bondage Christ died to free us from. We have outsourced our spiritual lives to others, creating a new veil—one that God tore down through the death of Jesus.In future writings, we will explore the parallels between Israel’s enslavement in Egypt and how the modern church continues to be enslaved by religious institutions. The aim is not to criticize any denomination, assembly, or person but to inspire others to develop a deeper relationship with Jesus. We are all, in some way, victims of and contributors to the system. The goal is simple: to encourage a personal, intimate connection with Jesus that transcends religious structures and leads to true freedom.

Christ Uncensored

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