Interesting Questions-04
"Exposing by Contrast"
Letter to the Editor:
GOD'S MESSAGE, April 2011, p.3
BEING ALWAYS ON THE ROAD, it has become my hobby
to tune in to your radio station (DZEM 954 khz) I must admit that I
learn a lot from your programs especially with regards to various
religious beliefs. In your attempt to be fair and objective, I also
noticed that you quote from books written by authorities of other
religions. However my wife once quipped why your speakers at times
deal with the beliefs of other religions instead of just confining
yourselves to the doctrines you uphold. Is that approach not against
the Bible?
Peter John Isidro
Manila, Philippines
Editor's reply:
Thank you for writing us
and for tuning in to our religious programs on local radio, DZEM
954kHz.
In discussing
the truth about the teachings of other religions, our modest
objective is to correct the erroneous doctrines which will cause man
not to inherit the kingdom of God. (Gal. 5:20-21, New King James
Version) To attain such a noble aim, there are some instances
when we cannot avoid comparing the beliefs espoused by different
religions with the tenets of the Bible, being the sole basis of the
true faith. In doing so, we only use the Bible according to its
intended function: ".... you have known the Holy Scriptures, which
are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in
Christ Jesus, All scriptures is given by inspiration of God,
and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for
instruction in righteousness, that the man of God maybe complete,
thoroughly equipped for every good work" (II Tim. 3:15-17, ibid.).
Notice that aside
from being profitable for doctrine and instruction,
the Holy
Scriptures is also useful for "reproof" and "correction". The Church
of Christ therefore believes that examining other religious beliefs
in the light of biblical precepts eventually leads to understanding
and enlightenment on the part of the people concerned.
Consequently, identifying what
is false is effective and oftentimes necessary to show the truth.
And since it is a duty of the Church of Christ to share what is true
concerning God's wisdom (Eph. 3:10), exposing false teachings for
the purpose of enlightening others , is therefore unavoidable and
necessary. As a matter of fact, the Apostle Paul recommends this
method of exposing the truth. He taught: "Try to discover what the
Lord wants of you, having nothing to do with the futile works of
darkness but exposing them by contrast" (Eph.5:10-11, Jerusalem
Bible).
___________________
Note: Some words and
phrases are in italics for emphasis.