Q3. Religious Compromise

[JustJeff]

"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world." (1 John 2:15a) Today, sadly, we are not much different than the church of John's time. Anytime that the Word of God is compromised it fails to be truth, becoming a lie, which always fails. We have sold out insofar as we have taken hell out of our sermons, embrace fornication, both heterosexual and homosexual, promise that giving money to the church will get you great material blessing from God and so much more. This is not Christianity but religion. So sad.

[dharm]

When it comes to Jesus and God's word ther can be no compromise. There cannot be sexual immorality or any other God. Those things cana nd will destroy a relationship with Jesus. Couples don't get married anymore they just live together, children are taught that sex is O.K. outside of marriage. People make money their god. These things can greatly compromise a church.

[Bro Steven]

any time we compromise with God it will break our relationship with him and will seperate us from God.

In todays time not only t.v. radio and computers and **** can lead us to compromise our relationship with God but also the church trying to keep up with other church in attendance and money by any mens nessary which will lead us away from the love of Jesus.

our true compromise comes when the teachers and preachers do not put the prue word of God out to the church due to the fear of the church could boot them out

[Linda Spilman]

Q.3 Due to economical and social pressure these early Christians surely struggled with their religious convictions. Most likely it was a continual compromise. To be exposed to any situation where religious compromise occurs is dangerous. But with prolonged exposure there is a weakening and eventually the destroying of convictions. When Jesus speaks to His disciples in John 15 I think of vital Christianity. Jesus is the true vine (the source of all spiritual life for God's people) and we are to abide (continual dependence on Christ as the only way to grow in character and witness). Allowing other things to be more important, not taking the time to abide in Christ yet calling ourself Christian we dilute what is intended to be a vital, life-giving relationship.

[mags]

When we start compromising our faith we are compromising God - we aren't trusting in His provision for us but relying on our own strength and abilities. By losing that faith in Him we are limiting God and not letting Him work in us!

There are many compromises today - a lot of them are very subtle. TV and movies is a huge one - there is so much that we let into our homes by TV - a lot of things that we wouldn't normally allow! We often think that it won't matter or it doesn't hurt us but in actual fact it stifles our relationship with God. We should hurt for the things that hurt our Lord!

[sisterlily]

compromise today would be preaching without using the name of Jesus. The world compromise when they have one foot in church and the other foot in the world and call themselves Christians. We need to stay focused on the One and Only True deserver of our time and actions, Jesus Christ.

Please pray for the youth for the protection of their faith and strength to endure living for Jesus, thanks.

[Blssd1030]

Compromising religious standards or beliefs on a regular basis as in the ancient trade guilds is spiritualy destructive for a believer because over time the act seems to meld into your everyday life and is no longer recognized as being compromising and also there may be this period of stagnant growth and separateness from God because of the routine of, well, basically sin, which in return opens the door for Satans condemnation to creep in because of the guilt that may be felt after realizing such willful disobedience and wanderings, particularly if repentance is not immediate upon recognition. Condemnation is not conviction. Our God is approachable. The curtain has been torn. Praise, praise, praise!

Is it a spiritually destructive compromise to accept the fact that God's standards and teachings are no longer (less and less anyway) accepted or tolerated in public arenas because of the supposed offensiveness of it? Have you gotten to the point where you try very unsuccesfully to turn a blind eye to the filth that for some reason is not offensive to the world and it just blends in as normal environmental background? Isn't it difficult to explain to your children the un-truths that are taught in public schools? I think I find myself at times becoming almost numb to certain moralities I don't agree with in this world. If I cant feel the snake's bite though then I won't know his venom is slowly killing me. Makes me think of "Wake up O' sleeper". Do I make any sense?

God bless.

[coastershirley]

it allows us to be mislead by false truths the heathen practices are made to look far more attractive than our own beliefs . as christians we wouldfollow and worship the things they did sexuality drugs alchol divorce sex outside marriage seductive teachins of a jezebelic spirit and idol worship

[masika]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

The road of compromise eventually ends in a precipice, especially in matters regarding the integrity of God's word and His saving gospel. The timeless principle for Christians today is given in II Corinthians 6:14,15: "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? . . . or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?"

This warning and command is at least as greatly needed today as it was in Paul's day. Spiritual, moral, and religious compromise seem to be endemic in the Christian realm today, in both doctrine and practice, and God would warn us that tragedy is imminent in the generation of our children if not before.

"Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing" (II Corinthians 6:17).

[vsdaddy4441]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

Like the business people of today's world, those in Paul's days wanted to succeed in business. Connecting with people of other faiths or "just getting along" was vital to seeing financial success. We do the same. Some join a church simply because of who else belongs, some go to church simply to be able to put a fish or cross on their advertisements, some profess Chrisitanity while exhibiting absolutely no change in the way they live. We struggle against the political correctness that says all religions are the same. Some Christians agree that good Muslims will be in heaven just like good Hindus, Buddhist, etc., because they do not want to offend someone, especially a potential customer. We see divorce in our churches equalling, or exceeding, the national divorce rate because we are not commited to our spouses and have bought into the lie that "God wants me to be happy." We avoid church activities for our children because the ball game is schedule for Wednesday or Sunday afternoon. We watch the same filth on TV or in the movies because we want to experience the same thrills that the world is seeking. We dress immodestly and, worse, we allow our children to dress immodestly or provocatively because they want to belong. We give our children whatever they want, whether we can afford it or not, because we want to impress their friends or parents with our fianancial ability or our ability to keep up with the latest fads. On and on I could go. In truth, we want to be accepted not noticed as different.

bob

[gideona]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

Religious compromise was so destructive because it led Christians away from God. Moreover, it led d into their excommunication from the society and economic deprivation as well. I think that one real compromise that we, Christians of today is giving much more of our time trying to earn things or riches that makes us more comfortable staying in this world. This desire drives us to acquire more material possessions, which even becomes the whole goal of our lives. We have that thought that if we have more money, we feel more secure. However, this is totally in contrast to God's word. Rick Warren, the author of The Purpose Driven Life says, "Real security can only be found in that which can never be taken from you - your relationship with God." Yes, only God can make us feel secured, for He is our true God who fulfills His promise. He said in His word that He will never leave us nor forsake us. We just have to remember that our life here on earth is temporary. Therefore, while we are still living, may it be our purpose and desire to follow God's Word and not to compromise with the world.

[Willem]

In today's real life poeple tend to fall back into a world of non christianity because of some so called christains that are out to only injure poeple more on the in the spirit and unfortunately this is leading to spiritaul deaf. Where as Jesus teach His followers to love each other as they love them self. But is there still love in todays real live. In the business world there is not. If we can understand this simple rule that God give in His Word the world will be turned uround and christains will be united into one group

[randall greene]

Because when you practicing heathen religions you are worshiping gods other than Jesus. These practices lead down a road of destruction. The compromises and a weak and watered down version of Christ, His word and His laws.

[smurf1948]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

Worshiping these other gods and idols. Lead them from Jesus and his teachings thus leading them to the things of the pagans.

I think the real compromises of today are money, material things of this world. People wanting want others have. Thus taking them from what counts the treasures we store up in Heaven.

[ising4ujc]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

I believe it was destructive because it separated us from G-d/Christ/Holy Spirit. He has laws/commandments for us to follow and abide. When we don't follow them, we compromise our relationship with Him. We lose our focus which is to keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. There is no other perfecter. The compromises that we face are: homosexuality, greed, sex outside of marriage, abortion, giving into fleshly desires and not spending time with Him through worship, prayer, fellowship and reading the Word.

[Delivered]

Q3 Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive?

There is a lesson to be learned from king Solomon, who in his youth was a man of faith, integrity, and honor, and of whom God blessed. God warned Solomon that divine favor and protection bestowed upon Israel would continue only if their faith remained uncorrupted by other beliefs.

I believe compromise came to Israel when Solomon did not take to heart God's warning, when he made treaties with other nations, bringing a commercial enterprise system to the nation; it increased their wealth, but what about their

[alpha1]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

Any time we succumb to the pressures to compromise our moral standards, our faith is weakened. The most insideous of these compromises are the very little things (e.g. the "white lie", keeping the extra change when a clerk makes an error in our favour, claiming a questionable deduction on our Income Tax Return, etc). These lead to guilt, which tends to separate us spiritually from God, and to rationalize bigger transgressions.

[royk]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

Some television programs today during young adult and children viewing hours have sexual connotations in the conversation between young people, even young teens.

Then there is all the free **** on the internet, which is far more costly than its "free' price.

Divorce among two Christian adults/parents. Obviously the people running TV stations are only interested in great ratings and more money from advertising. They don't care how people and families are demoralized by these events.

Identity Theft is another example, a white collar crime that doesn't hurt anyone physically, but kills their assets and their ability to be happy.

Heaven help us, dear most gracious Father please deliver us, in Jesus name.

[royk]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

Some television programs today during young adult and children viewing hours have sexual connotations in the conversation between young people, even young teens.

Then there is all the free **** on the internet, which is far more costly than its "free' price.

Divorce among two Christian adults/parents. Obviously the people running TV stations are only interested in great ratings and more money from advertising. They don't care how people and families are demoralized by these events.

Identity Theft is another example, a white collar crime that doesn't hurt anyone physically, but kills their assets and their ability to be happy.

Heaven help us, dear most gracious Father please deliver us, in Jesus name.

[ritad]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

Participating in heathen religious practices comprimises morals and beliefs. Do we conform to this world or to His Word? We put other gods liks work, success, materialism, money, and/or prestige before our time in prayer, Bible study, and growing closer in our relationship with the Lord.

[Commissioned]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

When participation in any societal association prevents complete freedom to serve and honor God, then such involvement would engender spiritual destruction. In the twenty-first century Christians struggle with being accepted in social settings while not compromising. The real compromises that dilute vital Christianity is the failure to be a witness, not sharing the gospel.

[hanks]

Q3.

Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive?

What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with?

Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

Pagan practices and idolatry mixed with Christian works and worship is a recipe for disaster. Our Christian beliefs will be impregnated with impure and false doctrines. In our modern world today, I find that we live our lives at such a hectic pace. Pressures at work make such huge demands on our time, because we live in a very competitive society. Then there is our leisure time; this also seems to take up much of our time. We put all sorts of other interest before God. There seems to be no more time for prayer, reading and studying the Word, Bible study, and even Christian fellowship. If we sometimes manage to make time, we rush the time spent with our Lord; almost as an afterthought.

[Josephine Koh]

Coming from a multi-religion society whereby the government promotes religious harmony and any "disrespect" to other religious groups is a crime, being a Christian can be relatively tough and challenging. Sometimes, we can have to compromise our ideas and beliefs, always considering if it is offensive to somebody, or "disrespectful".

Main problem is also due to so many denominations, and so many different "styles" of worship. Often on the streets, I faced people with questions asking about what one denomination does, and applying to the general christianity. Speaking against non-christians' beliefs is one thing, but to speak against other so-called christians, can further misled or confuse the non believers. Among ourselves, too much "ways" have fused into christianity and become part of our lives. It is difficult to draw a line between what is right and what is wrong sometimes.

[Marloes]

The pagan gods are not real but the demons behind it are real.

If you participate in bad ceremonies, you honour the demons.

Then you come under their influence and then you

[l.a.]

Q3. Why do you think the religious compromise required by participating in heathen religious practices in the trade guilds was so spiritually destructive? What compromises do twenty-first century Christians struggle with? Let's not settle for trite legalisms about drinking and smoking. What are the real compromises that dilute vital Christianity?

any compromise to the truths of Christianity chip away and water down the message of how we are supposed to live. It is very important to remain in truth in what is being taught through the church. Anything false may have a weakening affect on the church for generations to come. Struggles we are (obviously) going through today are sexual sins, homosexuality. I think the sin we need to be most aware of is not walking in love.