by Bob Picard
As we get older we all begin to realize that we need to change our diet. I can still remember being able to eat an entire pizza. That was when I was thirty years younger, and thirty pounds lighter! Yes, the effects of an unhealthy diet do indeed add up.
Spiritually speaking, many suffer from the unhealthy effects of false teaching. Just as I crave Dr. Pepper, instead of water, many crave sweet sugary sermonettes which actually corrode one’s heart and mind.
My flesh really desires that my doctor prescribe a diet that would consist of Ring Dings and Dr. Pepper. That would make me so happy! Yet, everyone knows that you would not live a very productive life with a diet like that.
Yes, much of the professing church has been made fat, and unhealthy, by the junk food it propagates. The central message of the Gospel is the one thing that we should be focusing on. This can be found by reading and studying the written Word of God, in its historical, literal context.
Nothing else grows mature Christians.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Scripture is the ONLY thing that can cause a Christian to mature (be perfect)!
When one tries to become mature using any other way there is immaturity. There can never be true growth, or at least healthy growth. Just think: the gut that many of us has is because of an improper diet.
The latest music may get you excited – for a while. But, you will never grow spiritually by it.
A “purpose driven” message may motivate you – for a while. But, you will never grow spiritually by it.
A charismatic “experience” may make you “feel” good – for a while. But… Well, you get the picture.
You can add your own particular junk food at this point!
As a dietitian, here is what I prescribe:
1. Stop eating junk food – it’s rotting your brain. No more Rick Warren, no more Joel Olsteen, no more Hillsong! There are so many “brands” of spiritual junk food to name. You’ll know them by their lack of Biblical fruit.
2. Begin taking large doses of Scripture – not just a verse here and there to back up your own ideas. Don’t worry. This medicine will not do you harm, but will open your heart and mind. You will begin to see what God’s intention is through His revelation.
3. Get into a Bible believing CHURCH, which seeks the glory of God, the wonder of salvation, and the centrality of Jesus Christ (not you) as the most important figure in all of history. And, yes, Jesus Christ IS still alive and well. He is seated at the right hand of the Father.
If you desire a Bible Believing, Bible Heeding, Bible Teaching CHURCH, we’d be more than happy to have you join us.
God’s Grace Bible Church, Millbury, Massachusetts
http://www.godsgracebc.org
