Is it really true that the Bible is incomplete and not sufficient as a basis of faith and in leading us to attain salvation?

Letter from Peter Yong

I WAS BORN A CATHOLIC but I am one of those who attend Mass only when there are special occasions in the family like Christening, wedding, internment, and Christmas days. My friend who is a seminarian encourages me more to be active in our religion. In one of our friendly discussions, I asked him where in the Bible we could read many of our doctrines and practices like Trinity, purgatory, rosary, keeping images and the like. He read some biblical verses which I believe are not conclusively teaching them. He nevertheless pointed out that we must not be strictly biblical, for the Bible is incomplete, especially on the written account of Christ's life. He explained that we must  believe in the Bible, but we must also accept other Catholic books and traditions as bases of our faith.

What can you say about this? Is it really true that the Bible is incomplete and not sufficient as a basis of faith and in leading us to attain salvation?

Seoul, South Korea

Editor's reply:

It is true that the Bible's account on Christ's life is incomplete---the reason is explained by Apostle John:

"But there are many other things which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written." (John 21:25, Revised Standard Version)

Though not all the things Jesus did were written in the Bible, it is not right to believe that what were recorded in the Bible are not adequate in leading to us to attain eternal life or salvation. Apostle John testifies, thus:

" Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may  have life in his name." (John 20:30-31, New International Version)

As a basis of faith, the Bible therefore does not need to be supplemented by any other book and even by what the Catholics call tradition. The truth, is to believe in the Bible and to propose that the Bible needs to be supplemented is to engage in self-contradiction---for the Bible warns everyone not to go beyond what is written:

" Now, brothers, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for you benefit, so that you may learn from us the meaning of the saying, 'Do not go beyond what is written'. .... (I Cor. 4:6, Ibid)

"For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of these book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book." (Rev. 22:18, New King James Version)

Hence, a true believer in the Bible know that when compared to other books used as a bases by various religions, the Bible alone teaches the way to salvation. Aside from this, he also follows the biblical teaching not to go beyond what is written in it. Anyone who claims that he believe in the authority of the Bible and purports that it must be coupled with something else as source of true faith is guilty of either inconsistency or not truly accepting the precepts of the Bible.

This is the reason why the Iglesia ni Cristo believes that the Bible should be the sole basis of man's faith. It is the only book inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking errors, correcting faults and giving instructions (II Tim. 3:16, Today's English Version). Using the Bible as the only basis of faith will give us the wisdom that leads to salvation (II Tim. 3:15).

15 and you remember that ever since you were a child, you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living, 17 so that the person who serves God may be fully qualified and equipped to do every kind of good deed. (II Timothy 3:15-17, Today's English Version)

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The Church of Christ: Its Meaning and importance to man’s salvation

THIS ARTICLE AIMS to present some of the fundamental and essential truths about the Church of Christ. Through the teachings of God recorded in the Holy Scriptures, we will seek to answer some frequently asked questions about this Church of which we are members.

The Iglesia ni Cristo (Church of Christ) which reemerged in the Philippines on July 27, 1914, has spread not only throughout the islands of the Philippine archipelago but also to different parts of the world. To date, it has established locales and congregations in 83 countries and territories.

1. What does the name “Church of Christ” mean?
The meaning of the name “Church of Christ” is body of Christ. This is what Apostle Paul teaches:

“Christ is the head of the church, which is his body.” (Col. 1:18, New Living Translation)

Since the Church is Christ’s body, whatever feeling and concern that we have for the Church is the same feeling and concern that we have for its head, our Lord Jesus Christ. If we truly love and value our Lord Jesus Christ, then we should also love and value the Church. However, not all churches are considered the body of Christ. Apostle Paul enlightens us on this matter:

“We have many parts in the one body, and all these parts have different functions. In the same way, though we are many, we are one body in union with Christ, and we are all joined to each other as different parts of one body.” (Rom. 12:4-5, Today’s English Version)

There is only one body or Church of Christ. Apostle Paul’s pronouncement is explicit: “we are one body in union with Christ” [emphasis ours]. What is the characteristic of this one body or Church that has union or fellowship with Christ? Its members, though many, “are all joined to each other.” They are not separated from each other and they do not have divisions, factions, or schisms within them. Hence, not all churches are of Christ, and any church that is characterized by sectarianism or denominationalism could never be the one true Church which Christ recognizes as His body. Another solid proof that there is only one Church which Christ recognizes as His body is recorded in the Gospel according to Apostle Matthew. Our Lord Jesus Christ states:

“ ‘And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church…” (Mt. 16:18, New King James Version)

Notice the clause “I will build My church.” The word “church,” as far as the entire organization founded by Christ is concerned, denotes singularity. Hence, there is only one Church which our Lord Jesus built or established. Another important point is that the Lord Jesus used the pronoun “My” to show that the one true Church is His or belonging to Him, primarily because it is His body and He Himself established it.

2. What is the biblical name of the one true Church which Christ established and considers His body?
When Apostle James sent a general letter to the brethren in the Church during his time, he made it clear that they were called by the holy name of Christ:

“Do they not insult the holy name of Christ by which you are called?” (Js. 2:7, Christian Community Bible)

Besides not having divisions, another identifying mark of the one true Church is the name by which it is called: called by “the holy name of Christ.” Thus, any church which is not called by the name of Christ could not be true Church which Christ established and recognizes as His body. Which Church is called by the holy name of Christ? In Acts 20:28, Apostle Paul explicitly teaches:

“Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood.” (Lamsa Trasalation)

“Church of Christ” is the name of the Church which is called by the holy name of Christ. In Filipino as well as in other major languages such as Spanish, French, and German, it is translated “Iglesia ni Cristo,” “Iglesia de Cristo,” “église du Christ,” and “Kirche Christi,” respectively. It is only proper and just that the one true Church be called after the name of its Head, Founder, and Owner. Hence, “Church of Christ.”

Even Catholic authorities attest to the fact that the one true Church founded by Christ should be called “Church of Christ.” Francis B. Cassilly. A Jesuit priest admits the following:

“1. Did Jesus Christ establish a Church?

“Yes, from all history, both secular and profane, as well as from the Bible considered as a human document, we learn that Jesus Christ established a Church, which from the earliest times has been called after Him the Christian Church or the Church of Christ. (Religion: Doctrine and Practice, pp. 442-443, emphasis ours)

Catholic priests attest to the truth that the Church which Christ established should be called “Church of Christ.” Ironically though, the Vatican council which convened in 1870 decided to drop the name “Christ” and use in its stead a name which can not be found in the Holy Scriptures, “The Holy Catholic Apostolic Roman Church” (Discourses on the Apostles Creed, p. 191).

Protestant authorities likewise affirm that the one true Church which was founded by Christ and recognizes as His body is to be called “Church of Christ.” Quoting a Protestant preacher and former Methodist by the name of Rice Haggard, Leroy Garrett writes in his book:

“All Christians ought to be members of one church, for there is but one foundation, which is Christ. And the name of this body originates from its head, which makes it ‘the Christian Church or the Church of Christ’.” (The Stone-Campbell Movement: An Anecdotal History of Three Churches, p. 88, emphasis ours)

Notice that Haggard said: “the name of this body originates from its head, which makes it… the Church of Christ.”

Then again, despite this admission, many Protestant churches, besides having divisions within them prefer to be called by various names such as Baptist Church, Episcopalian Church, Methodist Church, Pentecostal Church and Seventh-Day Adventist Church to name a few (Protestantism, p. 190;Moody Monthly, September 1984, p. 28).

3. How important is the Church of Christ to man’s salvation?
Contrary to popular belief, the Church of Christ is extremely important for the following biblical reasons:

a) Christ built the Church so that death will not be able to prevail against it.

“And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it.” (Mt. 16:18, Revised Standard Version)

Would Christ have built the Church if it were not important to man’s salvation? It is said that death will not prevail against the Church founded by Christ because those who died in Christ as members of His Church will be raised to life first:

“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.” (I Thess. 4:16, NKJV)

Blessed are those who are included in the first resurrection for the second death, that is, eternal punishment in the lake of fire, shall have no power over them. Instead, the Savior Himself guarantees that they will rise again to enjoy eternal life:

“Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

“Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.” (Rev. 20:6, 14, Ibid.).

“Don’t be so surprised! Indeed, the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God’s Son, and they will rise again. Those who have done good will rise to eternal life, and those who have continued in evil will rise to judgment.” (Jn. 5:28-29, NLT)

Concerning the members of the Church of Christ who are still living when Christ returns, they will no longer die but along with those who will be resurrected first, they will meet the Savior to be with Him forever.

b) Christ loved and offer His dear life for the Church.

“Husbands, love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave his life for it.” (Eph. 5:25, TEV)

If the Church were not important, would Christ have given up His precious life for it? In truth, He sacrificed His life for the Church in order to redeem its members from their past sins so that they will be saved when the Day of Judgment comes:

“But God has shown us how much he loves us – it was while we were still sinners that Christ died for us! By his sacrificial death we are now put right with God; how much more, then, will we be saved by him from God’s anger!” (Rom. 5:8-9, Ibid.)

“Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood.” (Acts 20:28, Lamsa Translation)

c) The Church of Christ is where the Lord adds those who will be saved.

“Praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” (Acts. 2:47, NKJV)

“For a husband has authority over his wife just as Christ has authority over the church; and Christ is himself the Savior of the church, his body.” (Eph. 5:23, TEV)

For this reason, the Savior Himself commands all of those longing for salvation to enter the fold.

“ I am the door; anyone who comes into the fold through me will be safe.” (Jn. 10:9, Revised English Bible)

This fold or flock is none other than the Church of Christ (Acts 20:28, Lamsa Translation). Would the Lord God add to the Church of Christ those who will be saved and would Christ command people to enter in it if the Church were not important and necessary to man’s salvation?

4. How can one become a member of the Church of Christ?
A person officially becomes a member of the Church upon receiving baptism in the Church of Christ. Christ, who commanded all people to join the Church of Christ which He Himself founded, gave the following conditions for baptism:

“And He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned’.” (Mk. 16:15-16, NKJV)

Before a person receives baptism in the Church of Christ, he must first be taught the gospel and believe. For this reason, the Church of Christ conducts Bible studies wherein all the fundamental teachings it upholds are taught and explained to anyone who has declared his intention of joining the Church. The candidate for baptism then undergoes a series of tests in order to show that he really believes in these teachings. Another condition that an individual must meet before he can be baptized is taught by Apostle Peter:

“Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit’.” (Acts 2:38, Ibid.)

Since baptism is for the forgiveness of sins, a candidate for baptism must first repent for all of his past sins. This is done by means of confessing one’s sins to God (I Jn. 1;9), asking Him for forgiveness (Mt. 6:12, NLT), leaving one’s wicked way of life including his way of thinking, and returning to God (Is. 55:7, TEV).

Notice that these aforementioned conditions for baptism could only be met while a person is still alive and while Judgment Day has not yet come. But once a person dies or when the Day of Judgment occurs, listening to and believing in God’s commandments, and repentance for past sins will then be impossible. Thus, the Lord Jesus admonishes:

“Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the Master of the house has risen up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock at the door, saying ‘Lord, Lord, open for us’, and He will answer and say to you, ‘I do not know you, where you are from’,

“ ‘But He will say, “I tell you I do not know you, where you are from.” Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity’.” (Lk. 13:24-25, 27, NKJV)

We must make every effort to follow Christ’s commandment to enter His Church. When the door leading to salvation has already been shut, then there is nothing that man can do to reopen it for himself. The opportunity to be saved will be lost. This is precisely why Apostle Paul gives the following exhortation:

“We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. For He says: ‘In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you’. Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (II Cor. 6:1-2, Ibid.)

While the door leading to salvation is still open, man should not waste the opportunity that God is giving him. Upon realizing the meaning and importance of the Church of Christ to salvation, he should heed the call of our Savior Jesus Christ “to strive to enter through the narrow gate” by means of joining the Church of Christ.

References:
Cassilly, Francis B. Religion: Doctrine and Practice.
Chicago: Loyola University Press, n.d.

Crock, Clement H. Rev. Discourses on the Apostle’s
Creed. New York: Joseph F Wagner, Inc., 1938.

Garrett, Leroy. The Stone-Campbell Movement: An
Anecdotal History of Three Churches. Joplin,
Missouri: College Press Publishing Company,
1981.

Moody Monthly. Chicago, Illinois: Moody Bible
Institute, September 1984.

Protestantism. New York: Scorge Braziller Inc., 1962

Joining the military service is not against the will of God. In fact, the first nation of God, Israel, had armed soldiers who were ready for the battle. Becoming a soldier or joining the military has never been violation of the teachings of God and of Christ.

On being a soldier

Roger Bayliss Wrote:

AS A JEHOVAH'S Witness, I have always believed in what was taught to us that joining the military and becoming a soldier is against the will of God. Soldiers fight and kill their enemies.   If you really uphold the teachings of the Bible, shouldn't  you also prohibit your members from joining the military since the duty of a soldier violates the teachings of God and of Christ that say "You shall not kill" and "Love your enemies"?

Editor's reply:

Joining the military service is not against the will of God. In fact, the first nation of God,Israel, had armed soldiers who were ready for the battle (Jos. 4:12-13).

¹² And the men of Reuben, the men of Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh crossed over armed before the children of Israel, as Moses had spoken to them. ¹³ About forty thousand prepared for war crossed over before the Lord for battle, to the plains of Jericho. (Jos. 4:12-13, NKJV)

These soldiers were described by the Bible as “mighty men of valor, men trained for battle, who could handle shield and spear” (I Chron. 12:8, New King James Version).

⁸ Some Gadites joined David at the stronghold in the wilderness, mighty men of valor, men trained for battle, who could handle shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and were as swift as gazelles on the mountains: (I Chron. 12:8, NKJV)

At that period, God’s commandment, “You shall not kill” was already in effect. But, why then did Israel have an army? Some of the reasons were for them to defend themselves against their enemies and to protect the leaders of God’s nation, as with the case of David—“…there he [David] was joined by many experienced, reliable soldiers” (I Chron. 12:1, Today’s English Version).

The Bible also records that there were soldiers who asked John the Baptist, “And what shall we do?” To their question, john replied:

“Do not intimidate anyone or accuse falsely, and be content with your wages.” (Lk. 3:14, NKJV)

John the Baptist did not instruct the soldiers to leave their duty. Rather, he gave them instructions to follow. Indeed, being a soldier isn’t against God’s teachings.

When our Lord Jesus Christ commanded, “Love your enemies,” He spoke in the context of Christians being persecuted by nonbelievers and not in the context of soldiers fighting in a war or battle (Mt. 5:44).

⁴⁴ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, (Mt. 5:44, NKJV)

Thus, becoming a soldier or joining the military has never been violation of the teachings of God and of Christ.

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Note: Some cited verses are printed in full to facilitate study.

Bible Study Suggestion: If you have further questions, please feel free to visit the Iglesia ni Cristo congregation nearest you. A minister or an evangelical worker would be happy to answer any biblical question you have in mind. For the latest Worship Service Directory of Iglesia ni Cristo Locales and Congregations outside the Philippines, please visit www.iglesianicristoworshipservice.com

Precious death

“A man who is in honor, yet does not understand, Is like the beasts that perish.” (Psalms 49:20, New King James Version)

THE SAD THING about life here on earth, however enjoyable we may have lived it, is that it has an end. And when its end comes, which is death, nothing in this world, not even all its combined wealth and riches, not even all of man’s wisdom and knowledge can stop it. Moreover, no one knows exactly when it comes. At any moment, death can strike and take us to our graves with nary a warning and any discrimination at that. Whatever our situation in life is, we cannot avoid and escape death. Its grim specter looms in a serious illness, in a fatal accident, in a disaster – either natural or man-made – and in old age. Indeed, death lies in wait every single moment in our life. One minute a person is well and alive, the next, he is being eulogized and his name placed in obituaries. Alas, no man can stave off death and no one has the capacity to keep himself from dying. The Bible states, thus:

“No man has power over the wind to contain it; so no one has power over the day of his death. …” (Eccles. 8:8, New International Version)

Moreover, as if death itself is not enough scourge already, when man is finally taken down to his resting place, he cannot bring with him anything he has worked for during his lifetime. As eloquently pointed out in the Holy Scriptures:

“We leave this world just as we entered it – with nothing. In spite of all our work there is nothing we can take with us.” (Eccles. 5:15, Today’s English Version)

The bright side
Although death, certain as it is, is the saddest, its onset the most unceremonious of all of life’s circumstances, there is a bright side to it. There is that death which is precious in the sight of God, the Giver and Taker of life (Deut. 32:39, Contemporary English Version). The Bible enlightens us on this regard:

“Precious in the sight of the LORD Is the death of His saints.” (Ps. 116:15,New King James Version)

There is, after all, a death that is not supposed to bring so much pain and so much sadness to people – both to the dying and to those whom they would be leaving behind – a death that is not a loss and is not in vain, for it has worth in the sight of God. And inasmuch as death, sad as it may be, is an inevitable occurrence, we might as well opt for and welcome the death that is precious to God. Why? Is there another kind of death that is different from the death that is precious in God’s sight? In Psalms, this is recorded:

“Do not be afraid when one becomes rich, When the glory of his house is increased; For when he dies he shall carry nothing away; His glory shall not descend after him. Though while he lives he blesses himself (For men will praise you when you do well for yourself), He shall go to the generation of his fathers; They shall never see light. A man who is in honor, yet does not understand, Is like the beasts that perish.” (Ps. 49:16-20, Ibid.)

There is the kind of death that is likened to that of the beasts. And such death cannot be said to be on account of one’s being poor and lowly in life. The aforecited man whose death is likened to that of the beasts has even attained riches, honor, and glory. Yet, he perishes like the beasts because he “does not understand.” What he does not understand is explained by the Bible, thus:

“The Lord says, ‘Wise men should not boast of their wisdom, nor strong men of their strength, nor rich men of their wealth. If anyone wants to boast, he should that he knows and understands me, because my love is constant, and I do what is just and right. These are the things that please me. I, the Lord, have spoken’.” (Jer. 9:23-24, TEV)

Whatever is man’s station in life, be he rich or poor, wise or fool, if he does not know and understand God, he would only die like a beast. Hence, one should not be content just to be alive, pursuing earthly knowledge, accumulating material wealth to improve one’s lot or simply earning a living to survive. What is of utmost importance is to understand and know God, our Creator, for this is the very reason God created us. God does not expect animals to understand and know Him. Which is why the death of even the wisest and the richest man on earth will only be like that of the beasts if he doesn’t know and understand God.

Knowing and understanding God
Given the religiosity and spirituality of many people today, they will readily say that they understand and know God. They show as proof the worship and service that they render to God. However, just because people sincerely believe and are fully convinced that they recognize and render God genuine worship and service does not mean that they truly know Him. Apostle Paul points out why:

“They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work.” (Titus 1:16, NKJV)

Apostle Paul speaks here of people who merely profess to know God. Merely professing to know God is not truly knowing Him. Apostle John delineates the distinction between those who merely profess or pretend to know God and those who genuinely know and understand Him:

“We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands. The man who says, ‘I know him’, but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” (I John 2:3-4, NIV)

Those who say they know God, even if they are fully convinced that they indeed do, but do not do what He commands are called liars. Their profession of faith is but an empty claim, for the truth is not in them. The correct and proper way to know God is to obey His biddings. One does not truly know God but merely pretends to do so if he refuses or fails to obey His will.

The will of God
The Bible points out that the death of those who do not know and understand God by refusing or failing to do His will for one reason or another is like that of the beasts. On the other hand, the death of God’s saints – those who truly know God because they follow His teachings or His will – is precious in His sight. They are called the saints of God because they have been sanctified, according to God’s will, through the offering of Christ’s body. The inspired writer of the letter to the Hebrews states:

“By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” (Heb. 10:10, NKJV)

The offering of Christ’s body sanctifies man because His shed blood has the power to cleanse man’s conscience from acts that lead to his death, or from sins. In Hebrews, this is stated further:

“How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!” (Heb. 9:14, NIV)

To be among those whom God recognizes as His saints, one must be sanctified first by the blood of Christ and his conscience must be purged of all impurities or sins. Aside from this, there is no other way in which man can be cleansed of his sins for “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Heb. 9:22, Ibid.). And contrary to what many people believe, the works of righteousness man has done by himself cannot sanctify him to make him worthy of salvation, for “according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior” (Titus 3:5-6, NKJV). Hence, man’s own works, even if he considers them righteous by his standards, cannot sanctify and save him. It is according to God’s mercy and grace that man is saved through the redemptive act of our Lord Jesus Christ. This does not mean, however, that when Christ was crucified and died on the cross, all men were forgiven of their sins and benefited from His sacrificial death. The Bible testifies that it is the Church of Christ that was redeemed or purchased by the precious blood of Christ:

“Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood.” (Acts 20:28, Lamsa Translation)

Hence, in order to be embraced by Christ’s redemption, one needs to be a member of the Church of Christ. This is the way, according to God’s will, that man is sanctified and counted among His saints. This is the way in which he is made worthy to serve God and to receive His blessings.

Blessed are the redeemedThe fortune of becoming a member of the Church of Christ, which means being redeemed from sins through the sacrificial death of Christ, cannot be overstated. The Bible testifies to the blessedness of being redeemed or forgiven of one’s sins, thus:

“Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, And whose sins are covered; Blessed is the man to whom the LORD shall not impute sin.” (Rom. 4:7-8, NKJV)

Indeed, those whose sins have been forgiven by virtue of Christ’s redemption of the Church of Christ have received an exceedingly great blessing. From their former condition of being sinners and separated from God, they have been sanctified and are now counted among His saints. Should they die patiently keeping the commandments of God, their death will be a precious one in His sight. The Bible testifies to this:

“Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth – those who have done good, to the resurrection of life …” (John 55:28-29, Ibid.)

“Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, ‘Write: “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.”’ ‘Yes’, says the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them’.” (Rev. 14:12-13, Ibid.)

Their rest will be in the Holy City, where all the sad and unpleasant things they experience in this life will be ended, for “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying; There shall no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Rev. 21:4,Ibid.).

And to be assured of such a great fortune, they strive to follow the Lord’s bidding: “be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Rev. 2:10, Ibid.)

"Why use different Bible versions?"

Letter from Kim Valdez

I HAVE READ several issues of your magazine. I greatly admire the way you tackle doctrinal issues by quoting directly from the scriptures. However, I find it disturbing that you use many Bible versions, and not stick to just one. Are you being subjective and arbitrary by choosing the version that suits your beliefs? Why the need to use different versions?

Oahu, Hawaii, U.S.A.

Editor's reply:

Using only one Bible version in both written and oral discourse seems practical and expedient. This would not pose any problem if and when those who translated various languages are completely free of bias or theologically neutral. Unfortunately, they are not. And this has resulted not only in differences in shades of meaning in some portions of the verse, but also  in differences in interpretation of the entire passage:  

"All translations involves interpretation. Interpretation, of course, involves the influence of theology; and as all translation involves interpretation, so all translation involves theology. ......... Translators cannot avoid totally the necessity of making interpretive decisions, nor can they avoid completely the influence of personal views of truth on their work. Translation in not hermeneutically neutral and translators are not theologically neutral." (Accuracy of Translation, p.41)

For these reasons there are times when it is necessary to choose the version that is not only easier to comprehend, but most of all renders the precise meaning---thus, the need to use more than one version of the Bible.

How do we determine which particular version of the Bible to use? Apostle Paul taught the guiding principle when it comes to the teachings written in the Holy Scriptures:

"But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God."

"These things we also speak, not in words which man's wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual" (I Cor. 2:10,13, New King James Version)

Spiritual truth must be compared with spiritual truths, and in doing so, there must be no contradiction. Hence, if a term or phrase in particular version contradicts the true doctrine, then there is an error in the translation. Therefore it behooves us to use a version that does not contradict the biblical truth.

However, an important thing must be understood when it come to comparing spiritual truths with spiritual truths. A preacher of the gospel must be sent or duly commissioned by God for him to receive the Holy Spirit and be able to correctly compare spiritual truths and spiritual things. Hence, not everyone can rightfully explain the contents of the Bible. Apostle Paul said,

"And how shall they preach unless they are sent? ..... (Rom. 10:15, ibid)

John the Baptist also taught the importance of being sent by God:

"The one whom God has sent speaks God's words, because God gives him the fullness of his Spirit." (Jn. 3:34, Today's English Version)

God gave the knowledge of His words only to His messengers. They are the ones entrusted with the ministry and the message of reconciliation (II Cor. 5:18-20), and thus they are the ones who can rightfully teach the contents of the Holy Scriptures. People should listen to their preaching to be able to know and understand the will of God expressed in His Holy book. □

Misconception about the Iglesia ni Cristo "Iglesia ni Cristo members are forced or compelled to give tithes or ten percent of their income to the Church"

"Tithing or giving 10% of income"

Misconception: 
THERE IS A PERSISTENT rumor among many people from other religions that Iglesia ni Cristo practice the giving of tithes or giving 10% of a member's income to the Church.  This allege practice of tithing is  perpetuated by Church detractors who persistently sow rumors about tithing in the Church as a means to dissuade other people from joining the Iglesia ni Cristo.  This, allege practice of tithing, is also due to a common perception among other people who are awestruck by the unceasing construction of beautiful and magnificent houses of worship or churches all over the Philippine archipelago and now in many places around the world. These people cannot believe that the Iglesia ni Cristo can fund this large scale church building projects with only the voluntary contributions of its members, the great majority of which are ordinary people and most them are considered poor in the society. Thus, they assume (accept without proof) that the Church is forcing or compelling its members to give tithes or 10% of their income so the Church can finance these massive church construction projects.

The Truth: 
THERE IS NO TRUTH to the allegation that Iglesia ni Cristo members  are forced, compelled, coerced, forced or manipulated to give ten percent of their income to the Church. Contrary to what some people say or believe, the Church do not practice the giving of tithes. Iglesia ni Cristo members give their offerings on a voluntary basis, out of their faith and understanding of the biblical teaching concerning religious offerings. Thus Iglesia ni Cristo members faithfully follow  God's commandment to His servants in the Christian Era that says:

Each of you should give as you have decided in your heart to give. You should not besad when you give, and you should not give because you feel forced to give. God loves the person who gives happily.  (II Cor. 9:7, New Century Version, emphasis ours)

Do not forget to do good to others, and share with them, because such sacrifices please God. (Heb.   13:16, NCV)

Knowing  that  the  Lord  is pleased  by  fulfilling the above commandments,  members   of  Iglesia ni Cristo voluntarily and happily give their offerings. And it is through these voluntary offerings that the Church is able to finance the construction of  beautiful and magnificent houses of worship where they, the members themselves, happily congregate to worship the Lord God Almighty in utmost solemnity. Many people may not believe nor may not come to understand that this happens in the Iglesia ni Cristo, simply because in their own religious organizations, many of which, cannot even put up a decent place of worship, and many still use public places such as cinemas, auditoriums, grandstands even after many years of giving tithes or offerings to their church leaders.

AN OBSERVER of the Iglesia ni Cristo has this to say:

"How is it that the INC has so many palatial churches—and we see them all over the country, while ours. . . . . . . . . .   Perhaps, there is  something about the   INC,   ...  that we   are missing.   Could  it  be that their leaders and, more important, their members believe—and more than just believing, live out their faith?"   ―Joel L Bodegon, Elder, United Churches of Christ of the Philippines from the book, The Isaiah Paradigm: Recapturing the Role of the Laity, pp. 116-117 (emphasis ours)

Mr Bodegon's observation is correct. There is something in the Iglesia ni Cristo that is missing in other religious organization. The Iglesia ni Cristo leaders and members more than just believe―they live out their faith. Why? Because deep in their hearts, they believe they are in the true Church of Christ. They know and worship the "only true God―the Father in heaven, the Lord God Almighty―and His Son, the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who will come again for the second time to bring home God's chosen people.

A TESTIMONY about tithing in the Iglesia ni Cristo by Michael Alexander Peter Adams, a British businessman, who is now a member of the Iglesia ni Cristo:

 "I deal a lot with Roman Catholics and  people of other  faiths in everyday life in business, and they often raise issues concerning the doctrines and practices of the Church of  Christ and most of their perceptions on these matters are just simply not true. For example,   there is  a persistent belief that we practice tithing,    whereas I know from the numerous sermons I've heard on the subject that God loves a cheerful giver and it is not a requirement to give a certain amount. Actually, the way in which the offering is handled the Church is very impressive. Great care is taken to record the members offerings and to ensure that these offerings are properly spent. If anybody doubts that, all you do is look at the number of chapels which are being built all the time, which, in my own rough estimation, have approximated two a week for the past forty years!   The construction of houses of worship and other buildings certainly requires money and this shows you right away  that even without having to delve into the details of the Church's books of accounts, the brethren's offering are being properly used."

Source: Excerpt from Convert story, April 2004, GOD'S MESSAGE, p.28 (emphasis ours)

According to Mr. Adams "the persistent belief that the Iglesia ni Cristo practice tithing is simply not true". What is true is "the great care that  is taken to record the member's offering and to ensure that these offerings are properly spent".   This is the basic reason why members do not hesitate to help the Church as much as they can because they clearly see what is being done and what is being accomplished for the glory of God.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS on tithing: 
Pictures of foreign Congregations houses of worship are shown in between.

On the giving of tithes

I ATTENDED A worship service in your church and noticed you are collecting monetary contributions, Are your members compelled to give ten percent of their earnings or wealth to the Church? Do you practice tithing?

Derick Manning
Berkeley, California, USA 

Editors Reply: 
The members of the Church of Christ give voluntary contributions during congregational worship services. However, contrary to what some people believe we do not practice the giving of tithes. Neither are we being forced to give our contributions.   We  give our offerings on a voluntary basis, out of our faith and understanding of the biblical teaching concerning religious offerings. The Apostle Paul teaches:

Each person should give what he has decided in his heart to give. A person should not give if it makes him sad. And a person should not give if he thinks he is forced to give. God loves the person who gives happily." (II Cor. 9:7, Easy-to-Read Version)

This is the teaching that applies to the Christian era. God's people are not mandated to give a specific percentage of their earnings or a particular amount of their wealth. Each one should give according to what he has decided in heart. Hence, tithing is not practiced in the Church of Christ of Christ.

Furthermore; we give our offerings to please God. If we give grudgingly or sadly, He wouldn't be pleased because He wants us to give happily and willingly. Hence, offerings should be voluntary and not compulsory.

Source: PASUGO, July 2002, p.2

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	Locale Congregation of Forest Hills, New York, USA

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On forced tithing:

IS IT TRUE that Iglesia ni Cristo members are forced to tithe or give ten percent of their income?

Justino Tumbaga
Camarines Sur, Philippines

Editors Reply: 
There is no truth to the allegation that Iglesia ni Cristo members  are coerced, forced or manipulated to offer ten percent of their income. The Church follows God's commandment to His servants in the Christian Era that says:

"Let each one give as He has made up in his own mind and purposed in his heart not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion." (II Cor. 9:7, Amplified Bible)

Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo offer according to the dictates of their hearts. They joyfully give their offerings knowing that by fulfilling this commandment,  God is well pleased. (Hebrews 13:16).

Source: PASUGO, July 2000, p.2

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	The Locale Congregation of Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada

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Not Tithing

IN   ONE OF YOUR ISSUES,   I Saw the pictures of some of   your "houses of worship" around the world. Objectively speaking, I have to admit that they are enormous    and    magnificent.    Some say, however, that your members  are forced to tithe or give ten percent of their income which is the reason why you can afford to build such edifices. Is it true?
Berna Sebastian
General Santos City, Philippines

Editor's reply: 
Although   there are many   religions that  practice tithing,   the   Church   of Christ is definite and firm in its stand that such  kind  of   monetary  contribution   is  not what God commands  for true Christians.

The truth is, members of the Church of Christ are taught to offer voluntarily according to what  their  hearts   have decided.  Even non-members who are studying   and  observing   this   Church could testify that Iglesia ni Cristo members are never coerced, forced, or manipulated to offer ten percent of their income. The Church   members   instead faithfully follow  God's commandment to His servants in the Christian Era that says:

"Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion ..." (II Cor. 9:7, The Amplified Bible)

Knowing   that   the  Lord    is pleased   by   fulfilling this   commandment   (Heb.   13:16),   members   of   this Church  voluntarily and   joyfully give their offerings. And it is through these voluntary offerings that the Church is able to do its holy functions like constructing edifices where  God   expects His people to worship Him:

"I intend to  build  a   great  temple, because our God is  greater than any other god.

 "I am  building a temple to honor the Lord my God.  It will be a holy where my people   and   I   will worship him ..." (II Chr. 2:5, 4, Today's English Version)

"Even them I will bring to My holy mountain, And make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices Will be accepted on My altar; For My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations.'"  (Isa. 56:7, New King James Version)

Source: GOD'S MESSAGE, January 2005, p.3-4

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	The Locale Congregation of Los Angeles, California, USA.

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Thank-offerings are voluntary contributions:

I HAVE BEEN fascinated by the magnificent houses of worship built all over the country by the Iglesia by the Iglesia ni  Cristo. Considering the fact that majority of he lglesia ni Cristo members are poor, I am amazed at how your Church manages to finance the construction of such elegant structures.

A member of your Church said that the Church's finances were supported or shouldered by voluntary contributions. Does your Church set a quota on the contributions of its members? Aside the support from the support for the Church's construction  work, what other expenses are your offerings allotted for?

Henry Bunao
Manila, Philippines

Editor's reply:
The Church's expenses, including those for the construction of houses of worship (cf. II Chron. 24:12-14), the maintenance of these houses of worship, the sustenance of ministers and their families (cf.Gal. 6:5-6),  the propagation of the gospel through  print, radio and TV, and the assigning of ministers for foreign missions, are all supported by voluntary contributions. What are voluntary contributions? They are thank-offerings given freely based upon the dictates of one's heart (cf. II Cor. 9:7).

Guided by these biblical precept, the Church does not in any way dictate or set a quota on the thank-offerings or voluntary contributions of its members.

Source: PASUGO, Sept. 1995, p.3

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	The Locale Congregation of Western Sydney, Australia

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. How could the Iglesia ni Cristo be the true Church of Christ established by Christ, when it was Felix Manalo who pioneered the Iglesia ni Cristo in the Philippines in 1914? .

Christ's other sheep

Amy Guadalupe Wrote:

I AM A member of a Bible ministry in our place. As I often watch your television program Ang Iglesia ni Cristo, I have observed that you emphasize that it is only your Church which Christ will save while the rest are subject to perdition. Isn't this selfishness?

You teach that yours is the true Church of Christ established by Christ. How could this be true when it was Felix Manalo who pioneered the Iglesia ni Cristo in the Philippines in 1914?

How sure are you in saying that the Far East mentioned in the Bible refers to the Philippines when the Far East is composed of many countries like Japan, Korea, China, etc.  Even if we accept that the fulfillment of the prophecy is the Philippines, there were already other churches or religions established in this country prior to 1914 like the Catholic Church, Aglipayan Church, and the Protestant denominations.

Editor's reply:

The doctrine that membership in the Church of Christ is necessary for salvation, is far from being a selfish claim, as it is a biblical truth. The Lord Jesus Christ Himself declared:

“I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved.” (Jn. 10:9, NKJV)

Man, therefore, must enter Christ to be saved. Those who have entered in Him find themselves in the fold or flock which is the Church of Christ (cf. Jn. 10:7, 9, REB; Acts 20:28, Lamsa Translation). Christ is the Savior of His Church because it is His body of which He is the head (cf. Col. 1:18; Eph. 5:23). The Bible even testifies that God will judge those outside the true Church (cf. I Cor. 5:12-13, NIV).

It was the Lord Jesus Christ—and not Brother Felix Y. Manalo—who established the Churchof Christ in the Philippines as testified to by the prophecy of the Savior:

“And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.” (Jn. 10:16, NKV)

Christ prophesied about His other sheep which were not yet in the fold then. These other sheep of Christ will be made one flock or Church by listening to His voice. Thus, the time of their calling is in the distant future and not during Christ’s earthly ministry (cf. Jn. 10:16, Easy-to-Read New Testament). They comprise the third group of people yet to be called into the Church (cf. Acts 2:39). The first two groups were the Jews and the Gentiles (cf. Rom.9:24) who became members of the first-century Church of Christ (cf. Gal. 1:22; Rom. 16:4, 16, Lamsa Translation). On the other hand, the third group will come from distant times and places (cf. Acts 2:39, Rieu Version).

The “distant times” when Christ’s other sheep were to emerge is also called by Prophet Isaiah as the ends of the earth (cf. Is. 43:5-6), the time when the end of the world is near and which would be heralded by signs, among which is the war of all nations that will be rumored all over the world (cf. Is. 34:1-2; Mt. 24:33, 6-7). This war is the First World War that broke out on July 27, 1914 (cf. The Story of the Great War, vol. 3, p. 923), the same date when the Iglesia ni Cristo was registered with the Philippine government.

The distant places where the sons and daughters of God who are the other sheep of Christ will emerge is the Far East (cf. Is. 43:5, Moffat Translation). The nation from where they would originate consists of islands (cf. Is. 42:10, NIV). The Philippines where the Iglesia ni Cristo reemerged in 1914 is a country that stands almost at the geographical center of theFar East and consists of over 7,100 islands and islets (cf. Asia and the Philippines, p. 169; Encyclopedia Britannica, vol. 25, p. 537).

The Iglesia ni Cristo did not reemerge in any other country in the Far East, like Japan,Korea, or Thailand but in the Philippines as prophesied. Religions that sprouted before the year 1914 are not themselves the fulfillment of the biblical prophecy regarding the emergence of the “sons and daughters” of God or the “other sheep” of Christ.

However, Christ did not have to descend from heaven to preach to His other sheep. Instead, he sent someone to do the function of preaching the gospel. Listening to the one whom Christ has sent, or to his messenger, is equivalent to listening to His voice (cf. Lk. 10:16; Jn13:20).

The messenger of God in these last days who preached the gospel of Christ that resulted in the reemergence of the Iglesia ni Cristo is Brother Felix Y. Manalo. He was the Lord’s instrument responsible for the reemergence of the Church of Christ as prophesied but is never the Church’s founder as others have mistakenly thought.

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Bible Study Suggestion: If you have further questions, please feel free to visit the Iglesia ni Cristo congregation nearest you. A minister or an evangelical worker would be happy to answer any biblical question you have in mind. For the latest Worship Service Directory of Iglesia ni Cristo Locales and Congregations outside the Philippines, please visit www.iglesianicristoworshipservice.com 

Homosexual relationships are such an abomination before God that death penalty is imposed and offenders will not inherit the kingdom of God.

On homosexual relationship
(an unholy union)

Imelda Gasarin Wrote:

ONCE I TUNED in to a local television program and was surprised with the feature of this Catholic priest who is living with a man. This particular priest, in his sermons, is very vocal in his stand that marriage of couples of the same sex is not wrong. He reasoned out that the Bible does not explicitly prohibit such union. I want to know, if the Scriptures do not forbid the union of people of the same sex?  Does it mean that people can get into homosexual relationships without committing sin?

Editor's reply:

God does not allow homosexual unions. From the very beginning, God had instituted marriage for the union of a man and a woman—and not for two individuals who belong to the same sex. Adam and Eve—the first man and woman—were the first ones united by God through marriage.

According to God’s design, men and women need each other (cf. I Cor. 11:11).

¹¹ But in the Lord the woman needs the man, and the man needs the woman. (I Cor.11:11, Easy to Read Version)).

Apostle Paul said that every man should have his own wife and every woman should have her own husband:

“But because there is so much immorality, every man should have his own wife, and every woman should have her own husband.” (I Cor. 7:2, Today’s English Version)

The Bible strictly teaches that it is unnatural and sinful for women to have lustful affection and passion and worse, sexual relationship, with one another. Males having passion with other males are also denounced:

 “For this reason God gave them over and abandoned them to vile affections and degrading passions. For their women exchanged their natural function for an unnatural and abnormal one,

“And the men also turned from natural relations with women and were set ablaze (burning out, consumed) with lust for one another—men committing shameful acts with men and suffering in their own bodies and personalities the inevitable consequences and penalty of their wrong-doing and going astray, which was [their] fitting retribution.

“And so, since they did not see fit to acknowledge God or approve of Him or consider Him worth the knowing, God gave them over to a base and condemned mind to do things not proper or decent but loathsome.” (Rom. 1:26-28, Amplified Bible)

Homosexual relationships are such an abomination before God that death penalty was imposed upon offenders during Moses’ time (cf. Lev. 20:13).

¹³ “If a man has sexual relations with another man as with a woman, they have committed a terrible sin. They must be put to death. They are responsible for their own death. (Lev. 20:13, ERV)

In the Christian era, God had decreed that those who engage in such abominable relationships will not inherit His kingdom:

“Do you not know that the unrighteous and the wrongdoers will not inherit or have any share in the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived (misled): neither the impure and immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor those who participate in homosexuality,…will inherit or have any share in the kingdom of God.” (I Cor. 6:9, 10, Amplified Bible)

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Bible Study Suggestion: If you have further questions, please feel free to visit the Iglesia ni Cristo congregation nearest you. A minister or an evangelical worker would be happy to answer any biblical question you have in mind. For the latest Worship Service Directory of Iglesia ni Cristo Locales and Congregations outside the Philippines, please visit www.iglesianicristoworshipservice.com