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7 & 8 September 2024 (Pastoral Page) THE CHURCH UNDER ATTACK

Reflections On IDMC (Intentional Discipleship Making Church) Conference 2024


By Dn Yvonne Chong


In a world where truth is often seen as fluid and subjective, the emphasis on biblical truth is more critical than ever. Biblical truth is not merely a set of teachings or moral guidelines—it is the unchanging foundation upon which our faith and lives are built. The Bible reveals the very character of God and His will for humanity, providing a steadfast anchor in a culture that constantly shifts its definitions of right and wrong.

 

Biblical truth is more than knowledge; it is a living connection with the reality of God’s Word, which leads to a transformative relationship with Jesus Christ. This truth is not just something to be understood intellectually but something that deeply changes us, moulding us into the image of His Son. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we are not just informed; we are transformed, growing in Christlikeness.

 

In an age that often promotes the idea that truth is relative—adaptable to individual preferences or cultural norms—biblical truth stands as a beacon of absoluteness. It confronts us with the reality that truth is not subject to our whims but is rooted in the eternal nature of God. The Bible speaks with authority, presenting truth that is gracious and loving but also firm and unyielding in its standards.

 

The chief attack on truth today is an attack on the very essence of what the Bible teaches. The enemy seeks to undermine the authority of Scripture, to distort its meaning, and to sway believers from its clear teachings. This is why our emphasis on biblical truth must be unwavering. We are called to guard this truth, to uphold it as the cornerstone of our faith, and to ensure that it remains central in our lives and our communities.

 

As we stand firm in biblical truth, we not only resist the lies and deceptions that threaten to lead us astray, but we also shine as a light in the darkness, pointing others to the only truth that can truly set them free—the truth of God’s Word, revealed in Jesus Christ.

 

In Genesis 3:1, the serpent's words, "Did God actually say...?" mark the beginning of a sinister distortion of truth. This subtle question is more than a simple inquiry—it is an insidious attack on the goodness of God, designed to sow doubt in the hearts of Adam and Eve. In paradise, where God's provision was evident and abundant, the serpent's deception aimed to undermine their trust in God's goodness.

 

The serpent's claim, "You will not surely die... you will be like God," further distorts the truth by suggesting that God's command was not for their good but rather to withhold something from them. This deception led them to question whether God truly had their best interests at heart. Instead of trusting in the abundant goodness they were already experiencing, they were swayed by the lie that God was holding back something better.

 

This narrative highlights how easily doubt can distort our perception of God's goodness, leading us to question His intentions and provisions. The serpent's deception was not just a lie—it was an attack on the very character of God. When we anchor ourselves in the truth of God's goodness, we guard against such deceptions, reminding ourselves that God's intentions are always for our good, even when we don't fully understand His ways.

 

In light of the relentless challenges facing the truth and the church, we must take to heart the biblical command to "keep watch over yourselves" (Acts 20:28a). This vigilant self-examination is essential not only for our personal spiritual health but also for the integrity of our witness in a world increasingly hostile to biblical truth.

 

Yet, the call does not stop with watching over ourselves. As part of the body of Christ, we are also charged with the responsibility to "keep watch over your community" (Acts 20:28b). The church is under constant attack from forces seeking to distort and diminish the truth. Therefore, we must be diligent in protecting the flock, ensuring that we remain anchored in the truth of God's Word and that our community stands united against any attempts to undermine it.

 

By keeping a careful watch over ourselves and our community, we fulfill our duty to guard the truth, ensuring that it continues to be a light in the darkness and a foundation for all who seek to follow Christ. In doing so, we preserve not just the integrity of our faith but also the power of the gospel to transform lives and bring glory to God.

 

To truly know the Word of God, it is essential to immerse ourselves in Scripture, studying it diligently both individually and within our community. Engaging in Bible study within a CARE Group allows us to go deeper into the knowledge of God, exploring His character and the Truths He has revealed. As we grow in understanding, we strengthen our faith and our ability to live out the teachings of Scripture. Ultimately, this commitment to knowing God's Word shapes us into a Bible-centered church—a community rooted in the unchanging truth of Scripture, dedicated to living out His will in every aspect of our lives.

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