A monument to the Tree of Knowledge
Photo by Mark Marathon, under CCA-SA
I simply find it fascinating. One guy who claims to go strictly by the Bible for the calendar, who claims that is is so crystal clear for all to see, recently proclaimed, “I will announce the New Moon as soon as the observers see it.” Really? Where does he get his authority?
Do not his followers see the obvious contradiction?
The Catholic Church, at the other extreme, took it upon itself to change the entire calendar, the day of worship, and much more. In fact, a recent article on Preaching the Gospel reminded me that most European calendars actually start the week on Monday instead of Sunday! According to the Catholic Church, it has the authority to change the calendar entirely. Where do they get this authority?
I recently read where a “prophet” once told someone how certain pagan prophecies are speaking directly of him. He studies false prophecies to supposedly understand the mind of the enemy, and he is quite sure that the enemy has identified him. Where does this “prophet” get his authority?
Some so-called evangelicals have decided that the OT does not condemn homosexuality, only promiscuous behavior. This is in spite of clear wording of the Law otherwise. Where do these people get their authority to redefine God’s Law as they see fit?
I realize that much of my writing and speech about authority goes over people’s head, much to my frustration, but isn’t that really what the Bible is all about? It is the story of God, His plan and His dealings with people, but that also means mankind has a place in the story. Mankind’s story is about who is in charge. Who will human beings submit to, collectively and individually? What will it take to turn most of humanity to the true God?
3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.
4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:
5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
~ Ge 3:3-5
Adam and Eve partook of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, which meant they chose to decide for themselves what is good and what is evil, what is right and what is wrong.
So, what has changed in 6,000 years or so? Can we look at the divisions within the Church and say it has not been effected as well?