The 7 Idols of the American Church | Matt Dabbs

[@robertkersten3971]

Matt, you’re on a roll. I came to the conclusion awhile ago that while the early church, and even where Christianity is thriving today, it’s fueled by the Holy Spirit. This is in contrast to the way the majority of the IC is powered, they tend to be much more reliant on money. I believe that all 7 of these forms of idolatry are covered by Paul’s admonition: “Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elements of the of the world, rather than Christ.” (Colossians 2:8) In other words, in many ways today’s church has been influenced by the surrounding culture, rather than the other way around.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

That is spot on Robert. It is the temptation of every time and culture...we have our specific temptations and we must be aware of them and fight them tooth and nail.

[@robertburke9920]

Well then, prayerfully consider reading the breakthrough novel "Where Do We Go Now, LORD? - Burke." A Divine Comedy Tale of the Christ. (Advanced.) Enjoy!

[@1Word2218]

Some may disagree, but I would add one more - SINGING. I know so many Christians that base their decision about which church to attend on whether they like the singing/music service. I could write a whole essay on this, but when we put our preference for a particular type of singing or music above the instruction to assemble to edify our fellow saints (1 Cor. 14) it has become an idol.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Ohhhh....that's so true!

[@glenw-xm5zf]

Are you born again? Singing is worship. singing is good for your brain, your heart. and ... awww never mind

[@alexandermichael117]

Social media.is one big Idol folks refuse to see, or acknowalage in their deluded lives.

[@DannyLoyd]

singing is to be done from the heart, not with musical instruments Col 3:16, the Catholic Church brought in musical instruments about 800 years after the church had been established.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

@DannyLoyd an instrument makes it not from the heart? How do? The Bible doesn’t say that.

[@joelfields9807]

Excellent! So excited to have our 3rd House Church meeting sunday. Please pray for us as we are still very new to all this.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Fantastic Joel! FYI, I am building out training to help...not really publicizing this yet but glad to send you a link if you want it. Let me know - [e-mail]

[@hidden-treasures]

Thank you. You have a truly unique voice of truth, and I am looking forward to viewing more of your postings. I subscribed.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Thank you so much! That means a lot.

[@angelsrest]

Thank you for giving us this video!

[@revolutionofordinaries]

You are very welcome! Thank you so much for watching and taking time to leave a comment!

[@clarencehammer3556]

I agree with you on the Bible being an idol. Also , I think Paul is also idolized. You always hear preachers and others say, “Paul says….” When they are about to quote from one of his letters.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

I have seen that a lot as well. The early church has also been idolized.

[@drycreek9]

Very good stuff. Basically all the things the Lord has revealed to me about what's happening in the church. And I love the church. I love my brothers and sisters. But these things are problems and they have to be addressed and repented of.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Repentance is the key word...hard to repent if you don't think there is a problem! Thanks for your comment.

[@adrianthomas1473]

All good points - thank you for posting

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Thanks for watching!

[@codyclark5995]

#7 sadly with the American Church i had doctrine,and church membership before I had a genuine relationship and with Jesus. Our faith is centered on Christ

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Thank you for your comment Cody.

[@cathcolwell2197]

Luv the title - revolution of ordinaries.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

God does amazing things with ordinary folks like us!

[@stephenvos2380]

So well humbly explained. TY

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Thank you so much...appreciate the kind words.

[@benbrown411]

I started a gathering of christians at my home. We eat together, worship, pray, receive teaching and have communion. Question to you and others on this forum. I am a woman I am leading the group. I asked the group if we could rotate this role,but no one feels comfortable. Am I out of line because I am a woman and taking a leadership role in this setting?

[@philobailey5627]

What about the fancy white robes the pastors wear? Good points you've made. Intellectual items vs. hard items like statues etc.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Some people like to be the center of attention...there are some amazingly humble pastors out there as well.

[@paul-hn7ck]

PRAISE THE LORD...........MATT......GOD WILL EMPOWER YOU........EACH DAY.........NOT AHEAD OF HIM.......BUT IN HIM PAUL JOHN OTTAWA

[@cathcolwell2197]

Yes, church is (now) another way to be American- the flag has suffocated the cross. Influence dealing is a huge part of large church’s.

[@dagwould]

Many decades ago my parents supported a 'church plant' as we now call them in a social housing project. In some ways it has my fondest memories, of the Christians I met there many of whom were on social security, but they were humble, praying people, whose life benchmark was the scriptures. I think of Norm and his wife. Both disabled by chronic illness and poorly dressed, but faithful. Of Dolores and her 4 lovely kids wearing hand-me-downs and husband disabled by an injury suffered in army training. Same. I look forward to them in the New Creation. No rich, articulate, polished hero of the institutional church measures up to them IMO.

[@trevino37]

It is interesting to know that Exodus 20:4 and Exodus 20:5 are two separate things that are always combined. verse 4 is "not to make any craven Images". Verse 5 is "do not bow down to them". Yet we have crosses, fishes, birds and wreaths and say its ok because we are not bowing down to them. However, verse 4 and verse 5 are two separate things. Verse 4 says "don't make them at all". It DOES NOT say "don't make them for the purpose of bowing down to them". verse 4 and 5 are separate things. Just because its the second commandment does not make them both one. The first church idol is the church building temple. This have become such a big idol, that many have gone into debt just to find our own independent place of Worship. Christians were never mandated nor instructed to create temples, altars nor acquire debt for the purpose of worship. The next Idol used by churches are all the crosses, fishes, white dove and wreaths used to represent G-d, Christ and the Holy Spirit. Exodus 20:4 says not to make any image of anything in heave (the cross), on earth (the temple and the dove) and under the earth (the fish). Our churches have accomplished in doing all three. The next Idols we have accomplished in created are all the independent church visions, mission statements and utilizing marketing tools to increase the church fold. If this is not anti-biblical, then what is? Our vision and missions statement are in scripture already. To re-create an independent vision and mission statement is to declare the Word of G-d as insufficient due to cultural changes over time. I can go on but will stop here.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

That's an interesting point...it all boils down to our attitude about those items, imo. Appreciate you sharing your thoughts...I will think that over.

[@trevino37]

@@revolutionofordinaries i think the world has just become accustomed to what Constantine the Great created and we now consider them the standard. Anything apart from that would be viewed as nearly heretical. Imagine going into a church and say the cross you have here is an Idol- they would flog me and throw me into a ditch. Today, people actually think that speaking against any church temple is a sin because it’s the house of G-d… perception has been former and shaped by false theologies. I would not expect many to agree with me.

[@sherrygifford5738]

great lesson

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Thank you so much Sherry! Thanks for watching.

[@johnmartin3517]

A church i was visiting had a pastor say I don,t know if I love God more or my wife. At that point I stopped going to his services and a woman there told the people there that I was a demon! Please note this same woman is married to my neighbor (ahab?) and has been trying to get me to sleep with her for the last 10 years.(failed though)

[@revolutionofordinaries]

What on earth...that is terrible.

[@rickywoods9800]

Christmas and Easter are the primary idols of modern day Christianity.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

I don't think that's right but I appreciate you watching and taking time to leave a comment Ricky!

[@1Whipperin]

Patriotism is a huge idol.

[@garysmurraysr5914]

🙏🏾❤️ CONFIDENT HOPE THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT ❤️🙏🏾 It is written: “I Believed; therefore I have spoken.” Since we have that same Spirit of Faith, we also Believe and therefore Speak, because we Know that The One who raised The Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you to Himself. All this is for your benefit, so that the Grace that is reaching more and more people may cause Thanksgiving to overflow to the Glory of God” (2 Corinthians . 4:13-15). “I Pray that God, the source of Hope, will Fill you completely with Joy and Peace because you Trust in Him. Then you will Overflow with Confident Hope through the Power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13). 🙏🏾❤️FELLOWSHIP WITH THE FATHER & HIS SON JESUS CHRIST❤️🙏🏾

[@alpscraftshack599]

This video will probably go over the heads of most, especially those who are caught up in that idolatry. There are also a couple of others that could probably be added to the list.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Yes...you are exactly right. What would you add to the list?

[@mustardseedsociety]

When I watched the video I was really hoping that you would mention the "Biggies" - and yes the list you mentioned need to be considered no doubt, but I don't know how the following could be left off the list: {1] The Government {2} The police {3} The "flag" {4} Politicians {5} The "constitution" {you know that "freedom "document where men who owned slaves wrote "all men are created equal" {6} "rule of law" {which thwarts principles, morals, and ethics} {7} countries and imaginary borders {8} Donald Trump {9} MAGA {10} and last but not least, [the act of] VOTING. There, I just spelled out 10 IDOLS that can be added to the list of 7. So now the list is up to 17.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Those are good additions...we can run the number up into the hundreds and beyond of what is out there. The ones you listed are prevalent.

[@keyszen]

Anything can become an idol. Pretext and context.

[@dagwould]

Don't conflate the church and the government which God has provided for us: see Romans 13. True, 'nations' don't figure in God's economy, there are merely convenient. But imagine the power of a government that dominated the world...like the Roman Empire which crumbled continuously for centuries. Thus the government should protect its borders and its citizens...or you end up with an unsustainable 7 billion people living in California.

[@mikelyons2831]

I've learned Calvinists are big on people worship. They quote Calvin, Augustine, John Knox & Johnathan Edwards like their words are golden.

[@oztheberean]

I’ve literally learned the same exact thing. Don’t forget John MacArthur. Great teacher and yet still fallible. But don’t you dare say that aloud. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@mikelyons2831]

@@oztheberean Yep, that & I believe it's a false gospel. John Calvin "Some are Doomed from the womb"... Jesus "For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives but to save them" (Luke 9:56 KJV). See also John 3:17, 5:24, 6:40, 20:39-31, Romans 5:18, 10:11-13, 11:32, 12:3, 1 Corinthians 1:21, 15:1-2, 1 Timothy 2:4-6, Titus 2:11, Hebrews 2:9, 1 John 2:2, 4:14, 2 Peter 3:9, Revelation 22:17, Matthew 11:28. I left some out, fingers are numb, lol

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Yes they do Mike. Great comment.

[@oztheberean]

@@mikelyons2831I was raped and molested for many years by my uncle. Sadly some very popular and well known calvinists state that God did indeed ordain that to happen to me. Tell me again why I would want to believe in that "different gospel?"

[@bjones5791]

@@mikelyons2831Yeah!Screenshotted THAT comment!!😎💯👊

[@fernandogallardo3458]

The idols of the nations are high and lift it up on a flag pole, and the blind cannot see them, because of their UNBELIEF, and because the idols are made of fabric. The idol worshippers of the US, are serving the image of the star spangle of heaven. The idol worshippers of Israel, are serving the image of the star remphan of heaven. The idol worshippers of Japan, are serving the image of the sun of heaven. The idol worshippers of Mexico, are serving the image of the eagle of the earth. The idol worshippers of Canada, are serving the image of the maple leaf of the tree of the earth. Idolatry is through the pledge of allegiance to the flag and anthem. When the king of Babylon the great played the anthem at the sound of music, the idol worshippers bowed down to the ground and worshipped the image of the gold statue of the earth. When the nations play the anthem at the sound of music the idol worshippers stand on their feet and worship their idols of the flag with a song. God is against serving or pledging allegiance to OBJECTS, to SYMBOLS, and to IMAGES, made in the likeness of anything in heaven above, or made in the likeness of anything in the earth below. { Exodus 20:3-5 } & { Deuteronomy 4:15-19 } If you are serving or pledging allegiance to OBJECTS, you are an idol worshipper.

[@marinaabad4995]

You are so right. Jesus preaches to be aware of great deceptions in the last days. Patriotism is an idol of Great Deception of American Christians. One cannot believe in Jesus' second coming and his rule of 1,000 years and want to repel the southern border of "invasion" and worship a national leader that tickles our ears with "safety, peace, and prosperity" and will end and deport all these unsaved souls. Many pastors end sermons with urging people to repent and be saved and Believers to preach the Gospel and be missionaries to save souls but criticize the current administration with giving up our sovereign nation. The whole Earth is Jesus Christ's sovereign nation, not just the USA. The evil one is deceiving us about the border "crisis" and we are believing that great Deception. How are we to know if the migrant "invaders" are having their prayers answered? Not just Christian prayers, but other false gods/idols they pray to? Jesus says not judge others. Review the Sermon on the Mount and see how it applies to Believers. Did He not tell us to preach the Gospel, heal the sick (also spiritually healing), feed the hungry, forgive one another, treat others as you want to be treated? Can not heinous criminals repent and be saved by Grace? No salvation for cartel leaders and members? Many do not know any way to believe or live. What about people from oppressive regimes that come here? Are they not to hear the Gospel? Many of these illegal migrants are criminals, demon possessed, sick, coerced to come here, want a better life, want freedom, want a better standard of living. Many are from oppressed regimes of either communism, fascism, or muslim theocracies. Evangelizing in these places is illegal and very challenging but not here in the USA. Do not many Christians believe that all people have to hear the gospel before the Second Coming of Christ? Do you not wonder how a US President can open the borders and let 10 million plus unsaved souls in? Has it occurred to you that it's the Holy Spirit sending the unsaved souls to us to teach them the Gospel. We teach the Gospel, but the Holy Spirit makes disciples. God chooses our leaders and obviously he chose President Biden. Are we NOT to criticize/mock the God chosen leaders? Isn't God all powerful and has purpose? Is His plan to have all these migrants come to the USA? All Christians and pastors/preachers of all denominations get off their behinds and go save all the unsaved souls where the migrants are congregated? Endlessly preaching to the congregations the same stuff over and over again is not saving new souls.

[@vbetta8979]

Oh....idol of the Bible. I agree. I have heard people say those things. Like they don't need the Living God, thanks, they have print on a page. Well, you're not going to interpret those words withoit His Spirit. I wanted to add another: idol of their CHURCH/ denomination. I have heard people say that sitting in the pew on Sunday *is* sitting with God. Going to church *is* serving Him. All the activities *is* serving Him. They talk about their church and their pastor and I keep waiting for them to talk about Jesus. 😢

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Amen!

[@glenw-xm5zf]

Please understand this. God speaks to us through his word. We need both

[@cash1851]

What is your background Sir? That you know all this? Are you from ARC?

[@revolutionofordinaries]

We are in house church independent.

[@krominator]

What about Dispensationalism? From which many other idols spring, all based on the doctrines of men. The cross, the "star of David" (star of Rempham), having an "altar", modern Churches are filled with pagan symbols and idols. Can we turn from them when the Lord opens our eyes? or do we double down and cling to our traditions and teachings of men?

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Yep - not a big fan of dispensationalism...appreciate you bringing that up. Thanks for the great comment.

[@chadmeidl1140]

The Bible is an idol? Jesus referenced the scripture, saying "It is written" in these passages: Matt. 4:4, 4:7, 4:10, 21:13, 26:24, 26:31, Mark 7:6, 9:12, 9:13, 14:21, Luke 2:23, 3:4, 4:4, 4:8, 7:27, 19:46, 26:46, John 6:31, and John 6:45. He chided the Pharisees and scribes for not knowing the scriptures, as well as the disciples and Apostles: Matthew 21:42, 22:29, Mark 12:24, Luke 24:27, 24:32, 24:45, and John 5:39. Paul commanded Timothy to STUDY as a workman (laborer). He also told him HOW to study, and WHO to be approved of: 2 Timothy 2:15 *Study* to shew thyself approved unto *God,* a *workman* that needeth not to be ashamed, *rightly dividing* the word of truth. Studying the scripture renews our mind, not our flesh, as the flesh is corrupt. (Gal. 3:1-4, 1 Cor. 15:50, Romans 7:18) Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the *renewing of your mind,* that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Ephesians 4:11-13 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, *; and some, pastors and teachers;* 12For the *perfecting of the saints,* for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, *unto a perfect man,* unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: A Christian cannot be perfect in the flesh, but in the knowledge of the doctrine of God. "Perfect" means complete. Galatians 3:3 *Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?* Colossians 1:28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and *teaching every man in all wisdom;* that we may present *every man perfect* in Christ Jesus: Philippians 3:14-15 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15Let us therefore, *as many as be perfect,* be thus *minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded,* God shall reveal even this unto you. 1 Cor. 2:6 That *your faith* should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. 6Howbeit we speak wisdom among *them that are perfect:* yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 *All scripture is given by inspiration of God,* and is profitable for *doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:* 17That the man of God may be *perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.* 1 Cor. 4:1-2 1Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and *stewards of the mysteries of God. 2Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.* Baptists were known as "people of the Book". How do we understand God's dealings with the patriarchs, the prophets, the Jews in Jesus' earthly ministry, Paul's teaching of both Jew and gentile the doctrines of the Church, and salvation, predestination, the Adoption of sons, Inheriting the kingdom, and the blessed hope without studying the scriptures? The word of God is likened to many things for the Christian's survival: *Clothing and armor:* The Christian is a soldier (2 Tim. 2:3-4) and told to have all his armor and sword and prayer. (Eph. 6:11-18) Put on the *whole armour of God,* that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14Stand therefore, having your *loins girt about with truth,* and having on the *breastplate of righteousness;* 15And your *feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;* 16Above all, taking the *shield of faith,* wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17And take the *helmet of salvation,* and the *sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:* *18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit,* and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; 1. Robe/Linen of Truth. 2. Breatplate of Righteousness. 3. Shoes of the gospel. 4. Shield of Faith. 5. Helmet of Salvation. 6. Sword of the word of God. 7. Prayer, our communications in the field to the Commander. The word of God is our *Equipment* in the field: 1. A Lamp. (Psalms 119:105, 2 Samuel 22:29, Proverbs 6:23) 2. A Fire. (Jeremiah 23:29, Jeremiah 20:9, Jeremiah 5:14, Isaiah 6:5-7, Rev. 11:5, Isaiah 6:5-7) 3. A Mirror/Glass to check himself. (James 1:23, Hebrews 4:12-13) 4. Water for drinking and washing. Includes snow (John 4:14, Eph. 5:26, 1 Cor. 12:13) 5. Seed and planting. (Isaiah 55:10-11, 1 Peter 1:23) Isaiah 55:10-11 For as the *rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven,* and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give *seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:* 11So shall *my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.* 6. Money- Silver (Psalm 12:6) 7. Manna in cases of extreme hunger. (Deut. 8:3) The Scriptures are our *Weapons:* 1. A Sword (Eph. 6:17, Hebrews 4:13) 2. A Hammer to pull down strongholds. (Jeremiah 23:29, 2 Cor. 2:4-5) 3. Fire. (Jeremiah 23:29, Matt 3:12) The Scripture is *Food:* 1. Bread. (Matt. 4:4) 2. Apples/fruit (Proverbs 25:11) 3. Honey/ Sweet Roll (Psalms 19:10, Ezekiel 3:1-3) 4. Meat. (Heb. 5:12) 5. Milk. (1 Peter 2:2) Here you have dairy, fruits/vegetables, grains, meat and sugars. Here the word of God has many uses for a Christian. He is properly clothed and has all his armor, has the proper equipment for preaching the word and planting, weapons, (sword, hammer, fire) food, drink, a mirror or glass for checking himself, and lastly, he has prayer for communications to God no matter where he is.

[@jimhughes1070]

I've often been tempted to transcribe the whole Bible in the comments 😭🤣👍🙏♥️.... One tip though... If the Bible says "be ye perfect....be holy..... Purify yourselves"... Probably shouldn't tell people they can't be.... I won't claim to be 100%.... But Jesus has made me WAY, WAY better!! 🤣👍🙏

[@Karen-j6b]

🥵

[@PolymathCrowsbane]

With respect, this reply is almost an example of making "The Holy Bible" an idol. We must remember that what we today call the Bible is a collection of writings that have been winnowed, organized and categorized by people over time. Without disparaging scripture, we need to respect it enough to read it for what it is, not as the artificial construction we've made it. The original texts were in a variety of genres (history, biography, poetry, teaching, wisdom, prophecy, etc.). Each of these genres had a specific meaning which they may not have today (history, for example, meant something very different than what it does today). Chapters and verses were a very late addition (16th Century AD) and have changed how we approach the reading of God's Word. It becomes even more overtly an act of idolatry when we consider a particular translation to be the One True Version, forgetting that every translation from one language to another is an act of interpretation. Worst of all, when we treat a specific translation with reverence and insist that we must read all parts of scripture in the same way, regardless of when, where and how God chose to give them to us, we elevate it above God Himself: we forget that the teachings of God are a means to an end: our transformation into the image of God as shown in Jesus.

[@jimhughes1070]

@@PolymathCrowsbane Cool, you go with that... I've met Jesus... turned me into another man in an instant... Then I read the Ten Commandments... That alone confirmed that I had met the God that wrote them... Reading what he spoke to the prophets confirms the same. Jesus Words in the gospels are from the same Author.. when he speaks in Revelations... He still did not change... You used mini eloquent and learned words... From my perspective they are simply another variation on the secular humanist Ideology... A private interpretation if you will. (Yes sir, reading someone else's interpretation and simply quoting it, does not remove one's self from its origins.) The Mind with the power to create a universe Speaks... Jesus is heard... Those Words are recorded And preserved at the cost of thousands and thousands of lives... And you can commit the bravest of logical fallacies... (not to mention blasphemy against the Holy Ghost)... And call the Bible an idol? Maybe you have a maid to come around and dust yours off... I have no need for the service. No that's not bad philosophy that's Testimony. The fear of the Lord always has been and remains to be the beginning of Wisdom. I have no illusion that you might be converted today.... I leave this for others that may be deceived by your pretty post.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

The Bible is not an idol. People can, of their own accord, treat the Bible as an idol. That's my point.

[@k.b.tidwell]

Interesting that all of these idols revolve around "ME", which is another way of saying they're all based on pride, the original sin, the one thing (perhaps?) that Satan ever created...and which gave him his expulsion from Heaven.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

That's such a good point...I guess that is the nature of all idolatry.

[@k.b.tidwell]

@@revolutionofordinarieshaving thought about this idea a good bit over the years, I really believe pride is in fact the root cause of all sin.

[@patiencewilson7104]

Marriage,Family, and Fatherhood and motherhood, education,

[@revolutionofordinaries]

That's true...those are really good additions.

[@ebenoit72]

Children worship

[@robertburke9920]

So then, please consider reading the breakthrough novel "Where Do We Go Now, LORD? - Burke." A Divine Comedy Tale of the Christ.

[@Underground_seminary]

Money/Power/Control can be identified as "tenure" in "the academy"

[@revolutionofordinaries]

That's a great point.

[@johndwyer3357]

May I recommend GRACE as an idol in the American church,

[@revolutionofordinaries]

It can be...it can also be taught biblically. Romans 6:1 would be one way grace could be an idol.

[@DouglasNicholson-ff6ep]

YES...The false Grace, warned of in ,Jude & 2 Peter 2. .. referred to as ." Turning the GRACE of God into lasciviousness"

[@aussierob7177]

what is the "American" Church ?

[@oztheberean]

Legit question, it caught my attention. I personally define it as what I was saved into. It was the false doctrine of health, wealth, over spiritualization and Jesus wants me to “prosper.” It’s a modern Western culture worldview vs. a biblical worldview. Again, my own definition to your legitimate question. And it was and is all false after finally reading the scriptures for myself.

[@aussierob7177]

Thanks a lot for responding to my question.@@oztheberean

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Great question! There are a few ways to answer it. Simple it is any church that exists in America/American culture. On a deeper level, though, it is a church that has taken American values and blended them in with Christianity to create something that is compromised.

[@oztheberean]

@@aussierob7177It needed to be asked, since many don't. And it needed at least some type of answer, since many won't and will dismiss it.

[@oztheberean]

@@revolutionofordinaries Amen.

[@RevIreland]

The Bible is the Word of God. It is the final authority and it does tell us all things. If you can not accept that, then you are just as lost as someone that does not believe.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

If someone doesn't accept that then they don't believe. I am not sure what you are trying to say.

[@glenw-xm5zf]

100% spot on

[@joerodriguez6043]

Who says the Bible is the final authority? Did God or human tradition tell that?

[@thebiblebunker3110]

​@@joerodriguez6043 you can start by cross referencing John 4:24 with John 17:17, John 6:63 & Psalm 138:2. Also, in 2 Peter 1:17-19 Peter says that this word of prophecy (Scripture) is more sure than him witnessing the transfiguration.

[@hermenutic]

I really agree. For a lot of people the Bible functions as their Pope. It did for me at one time...no longer. When the sum of all spiritual wisdom and knowledge is Christ,settling for a Bible verse here and there to answer your immediate questions never worked for me. To keep my faith and not give up like many have done I decided to throw the wood hay and stubble away. Martin Luther is reported to have said the Bible is the swaddling clothes that holds the baby Jesus. My motto is like George Beverly Shea. I'd rather have Jesus ,the Logos, than anything.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

The Bible points us to the Word - Jesus. He is the goal.

[@glenw-xm5zf]

Why did Jesus say 'My people are destroyed, for lack of knowledge' We have God's word in our hands and seldom read it. If anyone would dissuade you from doing so, have nothing to do with them. U be better off

[@troymccullagh]

You know that a pastor is an idol when he sins and the people refuse to believe it, they cover it up, minimize it, make excuses, blame the victim, manipulate, and enable. They want to restore him as leader even though he is not above reproach.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

You might find this helpful...thanks for watching and commenting - kzbin.info/www/bejne/fXuWi5dmmbd1rpY

[@dragonf1092]

One idol is on your wall behind you cross.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Nah...not really. I don't worship it. It reminds me.

[@randysquires8362]

Us.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Thanks Randy

[@GLang-kq5lw]

I thought one of the idols of the church is the Christmas tree and decorations.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

No one is worshipping that. Not even close. People of faith use the Christmas tree to actually remember and celebrate Jesus...pretty amazing stuff!

[@2ndyeardrummer]

It’s pagan, catholic tradition and nothing more. Find any scripture to support this abomination that the world celebrates, I’d love to have an excuse for the deception of Santa clause and be drunk with consumption in the middle of winter.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

I have never seen a church celebrate Santa Clause...maybe someone has done it. I would condemn that in church. Here is your scripture. I hope you will agree with what Paul wrote here and drop the judgment on this matter, "Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters. 2 One person’s faith allows them to eat anything, but another, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. 3 The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them. 4 Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand. 5 One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. 6 Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God; and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God. 7 For none of us lives for ourselves alone, and none of us dies for ourselves alone. 8 If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. 9 For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living. 10 You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister[a]? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat." - Rom 14:1-10

[@2ndyeardrummer]

@@revolutionofordinaries thanks for removing my comment and then responding to it. Classy

[@2ndyeardrummer]

Jeremiah 10 Hear ye the word which the Lord speaketh unto you, O house of Israel: 2 Thus saith the Lord, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. 3 For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. 4 They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not.

[@trailrvs]

If there is another idol, I would say it is CENI

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Totally agree!

[@dragonf1092]

C tree is a idol,manger scene is a idol.

[@sixmill977]

Is that ‘cross’ hanging on the wall behind you a “graven image”?

[@revolutionofordinaries]

I can assure you it is not. Have a great day.

[@theshepherdspromise]

I think most of this can be boiled down to the single charge of self-idolatry. I don't agree with how far your point on the idolatry of the Bible went... it is important to note that not everything in the Bible is actually scripture, but I do think saying anything that would encourage anyone to assume they need to part from genuine scripture is potentially hazardous.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

That's a fair summary. Thanks for leaving a comment and watching!

[@VictorianMaid99]

Church is a business. When you get over 300 people it is time to split it off. We left church when we had to make an appointment with the secritary just to talk to the leader. Church is incorporated and is under the 501c3 tax exemption. It is all about money and a product. Church is a consumable.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

I wouldn't say for most churches it is all about the money - for some that is true but not most.

[@RussellAubrey-q5o]

If it was only as simple and straightforward.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Because there are about a zillion other things we idolize but you can only cover so much in 10 minutes or less.

[@glenw-xm5zf]

John 3:16 is simple and straightforward. and so is one John ch 1 Read it, and go from there

[@cathcolwell2197]

I also think that pastoring makes for very lonely men - needs to be a board of elders.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Agreed!

[@rorywynhoff1549]

Revolution of Ordinaries... or the priesthood of all believers. 1Pet 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Subscribed.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

This is one of my favorite passages and concepts. If only more churches would embrace it.

[@melvaochoa4930]

Start with true repentance..So repent

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Amen

[@Charleston4Jesus]

I would hate to be a Pastor under the business model. There is so much pressure because you done built this idol up on the wrong foundation so the constant need for money and Pastors know the people in the church that has the money. So these people use the money for power and control. What happens if the money dries up or your main donors die or leave. Now your stuck with massive bills starting to pile up. What I have seen though is churches built on the business model start going to community leadership to get them to invest in keeping the church building that the building is then used for ungodly events and purposes as like a secular events ungodly weddings etc because they invested in making the church like a community gathering place. Its like the building becomes an idol to.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

It is a rough system...a beast that has to constantly be fed.

[@Iris-2023gh]

Well the pastors will love it for the pay they receive from mega churches. They will preach what they ask him to preach and say what they want them to say. It does not matter if the situation does not affect what he gets every month. They are paid more than a US president. That is the motivation. That is alright if they stop being a puppet and do their jobs well.

[@Charleston4Jesus]

@@Iris-2023gh Yes money effects the preaching and even how church functions. One thing you can be sure of when the word of God is being watered down 9 times out of 10 Pastors have compromised for the money. Do not think someone in the church gives a very healthy check to you but does not want something in return. About 6 months later the Pastor gets a call from them my child wants this and that. I want only these songs sung in worship. Can I make a suggestion on making the messages more relevant to my kids problems etc Because the Pastor took that healthy check he now feels obligated to them. He was bought. The apostle Paul was a tentmaker by trade. The advantage of tentmaker preachers is that they can't be so easily bought.

[@Iris-2023gh]

@Charleston4Jesus ya tent makers support themselves. They preach according to what they saw was needed by the congregation. As for the choice of songs, I am not too sure, but anyway, they sure have limited choice unless the church is founded by them and they control everything. They continue to urge people to help those in need and, at the same time, keep reminding the congregations to give, and some even threaten them with the attack of the evil spirit if they don't. That is evil. Do they themselves give to the needy?

[@dragonf1092]

The fake pictures of Jesus are another idol,statues of Mary and Jesus are idols.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

It depends on how you view them and use them.

[@dragonf1092]

That's blasphemy against the holy Spirit calling the word of God the Bible a idol.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

I am not calling the Word of God an idol. You missed the point 100%. I am saying SOME people view/treat it in an idolatrous way. Big difference. Think about it.

[@glenw-xm5zf]

Umm no. Just serious misunderstanding

[@jimhughes1070]

It's not the Bible... It's narcissism.... The Bible is where you get All the knowledge... Imagine if all the "denominations" actually believed and preached it... MINUS all the extras you think you need 🤣👍... "Denominations" would be a better fit I think...(I am of Paul... I am of Cephas.... I am of Calvin 😂).... Jesus is both King and Prophet...."call no man, Father"... Jesus knew what he was saying, and still does!... You can join any of the "abominations" or you can stick with Jesus..."the Word of God manifest in flesh "🎉.... It's almost as if people "enjoy" their lack of knowledge!🤣😭 Rate the level of importance of this statement...."My people perish, for the lack of knowledge".... God's Word is not an idol made with hands... It is the true and living God!🙏

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Of course the Bible is the living word of God! But some people twist it and abuse it and make it an idol for themselves and miss the point.

[@PolymathCrowsbane]

“God’s Word is not an idol made with hands… It is the true and living God!” Is, IMHO, the very definition of idolatry: worshipping the creation (God’s Word) rather than the Creator (the God who gave us the words). Unfortunately, much of Restoration teaching about how to approach God’s Word is a product of the European Enlightenment, not the First Century. When considering a particular teaching or interpretation, I start with two questions: Does this belief depend on the reading of a specific translation? If I read the book from which a “proof text” is derived without chapter or verse markings, will I find the same teaching? If a belief is based on a particular translation or a particular passage taken out of context, it should be considered suspect, as I’m no longer reading God’s Word the way He delivered it.

[@jimhughes1070]

@@revolutionofordinaries I've never seen that... There are many false christianities out there... Tricking people into worshiping twisted versions of the Creator, is Lucifer's main job... The Bible says "that" is idol worship... It does not however, Refer to itself as an idol... Or even make reference in its many pages, that that would be a possibility! 😭...

[@jimhughes1070]

@@PolymathCrowsbane You can lie all you like brother... The Reformation is only the furthering of the harlot riding the beast... As its doctrine "spread out among the seed of men."... If you're not in possession of the intellect God gave you to be able to "prove what is true" (your brain is capable, but the flesh is obviously weak) 🤣... You're simply speaking evil of things you know nothing about... Which is about average for the population.

[@jimhughes1070]

@@PolymathCrowsbane God didn't create His Word.... The Word was with the Mind from before the beginning of the universe... And all authority has been given to the Word.... Like 99% of Christians you confuse the Bible, with the Word... Lots and lots of things recorded in the Bible... That aren't.... "God Speaking."... Some of the recorded spoken words we're from Lucifer.... It's obvious deep thought is not your forte... But you could do better 👍

[@dragonf1092]

Money is not a idol it becomes a false god.

[@glenw-xm5zf]

Why are we nit picking this stuff?? It is not that much of a problem. Either you know and love Jesus, or you don't. He either knows you, or he doesn't Read Matt ch7-verse 21 to 26. those are the most chilling worlds in all of scripture, IMO

[@glenw-xm5zf]

It is the LOVE of money that is the problem. Also love of power, of pleasure, and desire to be worshipped or esteemed of men. Those are killers

[@revolutionofordinaries]

thanks for these comments...I agree with your assessment.

[@dragonf1092]

The god of the world is money.

[@glenw-xm5zf]

The Bible tells me that the devil is the god of this world. Look it up

[@revolutionofordinaries]

The love of money, not money.

[@dragonf1092]

This guy is a false prophet.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

Yeah...that Matt guy is a loose canon.

[@glenw-xm5zf]

@@revolutionofordinariesI am skeptical of anyone who says they died, and went to hell and saw this, saw that, OR to heaven and saw this and saw that. Many deceivers are in this world, and they are ever increasing. The other side of this stuff is that many are deceived, and then think they had a 'vision from God' when they were demonically fooled. Pray for wisdom. Read God's word, and then ACT LIKE IT iS TRUE because it is

[@jamesstrohl2016]

The Bible is an "idol?" That is absolutely false teaching. Is there a miraculous indwelling of the Holy Spirit today? No, that was promised to the Apostles, and they passed it down to others, who could not pass it on. Secondly, the Holy Spirit was given to those who wrote the Epistles. Jude , and James come to mind. Third, there is enough in the Bible to lead a person to salvation and keep them saved. That was God's plan since the Fall of mankind. Does that mean God has said all He needs to say? Absolutely. In another post, I asked you a question which you ignored. If the Holy Spirit was the only thing that is needed, then why study? From your teaching all one has to do is just ask the Holy Spirit to tell you. Here is something that you really need to do. Study Genesis 3 and 11.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

James, if anything is false teaching it is that the Holy Spirit doesn't indwell people today or work in any way - cessationism. That view is killing our churches left and right. The Holy Spirit is alive and well...doing miracles. In fact, Jesus warned against blasphemy of the Holy Spirit toward those who said the Holy Spirit wasn't doing miracles. So be careful, seriously.

[@jamesstrohl2016]

@@revolutionofordinaries Again you didn't answer the question. The false teaching that I said was plainly referring to was calling the Bible an Idol. That is very plain since it is the very first sentence. The indwelling that the Apostles had, and the early Church, is very much different than today. The scriptures plainly tell that. Third, you have blaspheming of the Holy Spirit, in the time of Jesus mixed up with the blaspheming today. In Jesus's time it wasn't the Holy Spirit that we have today. Especially since the Holy Spirit didn't come on the scene until Christ ascended. John 16. The spirit that Jesus had was the Holy Spirit of God and not the Holy Spirit. So that meant when the Pharisees said that He did the miracles by Satan, and Jesus had God's Spirit then they blasphemed God. since at this time one could not separate the physical Jesus from the Spiritual one. There is only one way to blaspheme the Holy Spirit today, and that is to die apostate. The Bible clearly teaches this as well. I've never said that the Holy Spirit doesn't indwell in the Christian today. It provides comfort for one thing. Nor have I said that miracles have ceased. God will have mercy on whom He chooses. The gifts, meaning man's involvement, have ceased. That is what Paul said would happen. Read the Book that I referenced too and the two chapters. That is if you want a complete understanding of man and his relationship to God.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

You can make anything an idol except for God. The only reason you think it is different today is because that is the limit of your experience with the Spirit. When you see a miracle your eyes get opened and you realize that God is doing those things today - or you could see a miracle and deny it happened...that happened even to Jesus when he did them. Sad you are missing out on it.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

"In Jesus's time it wasn't the Holy Spirit that we have today. Especially since the Holy Spirit didn't come on the scene until Christ ascended. John 16." That is a pretty bad line right there. I can prove you are wrong. Read Luke 4 and Acts 10 - both chapters say that Jesus did his miracles by the power of the Holy Spirit. Read Matthew 3 - baptism of Jesus - the Spirit came down upon Jesus. How can you say the Spirit didn't come until Jesus ascended when the Holy Spirit is in the gospels?!? That makes zero sense biblically and is a very very poor understanding of the Spirit, imo...nothing personal....it's just really a bad comment and view.

[@jamesstrohl2016]

@tionofordinaries John 16: 5 “But now I am going to Him who sent Me; and none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’ 6 But because I have said these things to you, grief has filled your heart. 7 But I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I am leaving; for if I do not leave, the [e]Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. Notice the Helper is the Holy Spirit. Christ plainly states that the Holy Spirit won't come unless He leaves. Let's go back to Mary becoming pregnant. It wasn't the Holy Spirit, because if it was the Holy Spirit, Jesus would have been the Son of the Holy Spirit. How can this be reconciled so that Jesus was the Son of God. The translation from the Greek had to be properly translated to the Holy Spirit of God. Meaning that God's Spirit impregnated Mary. answer the questions. Red the reading that i asked you too. It will open your eyes of the time we are living in.

[@sterlinggeorge205]

"the holy spirit doesn't do anything" is absolutely NOT what cessationism teaches. be honest about your brothers of a different theological stripe please.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

There are many different flavors of cessationism...the particular conversation I was having was with a brother who was directly saying the Holy Spirit does nothing today. In Churches of Christ, there is a prevalent view that the Spirit only works through the words on the page of the Bible and in no other way...that the Bible was inspired back when it was written so the work of the Spirit was done back then and left us with just the Bible to do the work today. That is the cessationism I grew up on. Be honest - okay...I am being honest and everything I have said here has been honest. When you say be honest you imply that I am telling lies...is that what you think is going on here? That I am purposely making things up and lying? Because that's basically what you said.

[@sterlinggeorge205]

@@revolutionofordinaries yup one who lies is a liar. Whatever your personal experience is you misrepresented (at best) the historical cessationist position with a overbroad generalization. It might make it easier for you to make your point by dunking on faithful brothers but it’s still wrong.

[@revolutionofordinaries]

@sterlinggeorge205 totally disagree. First, my statement has context. Restoration movement word only cessationism. My points address that view. So you can pull out other forms and say I am wrong but at some point it makes you the liar once you know my point but insist on twisting it. Lies are intentional misleading. I see what you are doing online all the time. You disagree with my assessment and say I am lying. Or I need to be honest. There used to be a huge difference between lying and being mistaken in understanding. Neither of which I am doing. If you would like to persist in accusing me of being a liar you can go someplace else to leave comments.

[@sterlinggeorge205]

@@revolutionofordinaries your comments were not specific to any individual flavor of cessationism. you painted us all with an extremely broad brush. that is absolutely a lie. that's like saying all republicans are racists. of all of the terrible mischaracterizations I've heard of cessationism, this was the silliest and sloppiest, and it is a high bar to clear. perhaps you should learn what cessationists believe before telling the internet what cessationists believe. brother, just be humble and accept the sharpening instead of defending yourself.

[@marinaabad4995]

the Holy Spirit is sending millions of unsaved souls to the US, but we are not doing anything to save those souls.@@revolutionofordinaries