Preaching false doctrine is dangerous even when it comes in the form of a subtle reference. Paul preached that as Christians, we must live in such a way there is not even a hint of compromise. But even a higher demand is placed on those who preach the gospel.

With that warning, it is with sorrow that I report that the church of Jesus Christ is in serious trouble. Not that we're in danger of losing salvation or missing heaven. After all, that's what God said and it's not up me to make his promises work. God said it; that settles it, whether I believe it or not!

No, I'm afraid the vast majority of our church pews are filled with those who have confidence they're saved but really aren't. Only God gives the Holy Spirit and only He can give confident assurance that we belong to Him. Too often we get our assurance from men and not the Spirit.

Sadly, from behind pulpits and by someone's personal interpretation of Scripture, a message is preached that is said to reflect God's word. But all too often, it's a watered-down version or worse yet, in stark contradiction to it. Either way, Paul warns us to beware of anyone who knowingly or unknowingly tries to deceive us with "empty" words.

Last evening I sat in amazement as a much revered evangelical preacher taught a congregation how to witness to the lost. That in itself is not a bad thing, but the way it was done was alarming. By my count during the sermon, prayer was mentioned one time and only mentioned in reference to praying for someone who refused to agree with the witness.

But what was more alarming than the absence of prayer as vital to witnessing was the fact salvation was preached without ever once referring to repentance. I'd like to say I was amazed, but that's why I was listening and counting. I guess it was confirmation on my part, for I knew before he ever opened his mouth, repentance wouldn't be part of his presentation. After all, how can a person speak to someone else about repentance when they themselves see no need for doing it?

Most witnesses are well-meaning but are willing accomplices in ignoring God's word. When telling someone how to be saved, they avoid mentioning personal responsibility and accountability in relation to sin. It's like red letters in Scripture have no relevance to them. Try these three references just for a start: "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance" - Lu 5:32; "But unless you repent, you too will all perish" - Lu 13:3; "Go now and leave your life of sin." - John 8:11.

For years, those who have preached a doctrine void of personal accountability have misused red letters. In fact, ninety-nine out of one-hundred witnessing tracts will include Jesus' words in Revelation 3:20 as a sales closing technique to get a commitment: "Jesus is knocking at your heart's door; just open the door and he will come in and save you." Sounds good, until you put it in context to the verse right before it: "Those I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent."In Revelation chapter three, Jesus was talking to the church - saved folk, not lost people! (Rev 3:19)

Friend, if you're preaching a gospel message other than salvation by repentance, I have rebuke for you. Our Lord's words in Revelation are intended for you and not the one to whom you are witnessing. Why not open the door or your heart by repenting and preaching what Jesus did. When you do, He will do what He promised: "I will come in and fellowship with you."

1 Developed from Read the Bible Thru ( Is. 51:1-53:12 Ep. 5:1-33 Ps. 69:15-36 Pr. 24:7 )
2. Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society

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