Common in many news cycles is the passing along of what are called conspiracy theories. The past several elections (and I’m sure future ones) have been filled with them. They are on both sides of the aisle-R or D; conservative or liberal; cultish or mainstream; religious or non-religious.
Conspiracy theories are nothing new though. In the days of Jesus, one that was passed along by those who wanted to downplay or deny the resurrection was that the disciples had stolen the body (Check out Matthew 28:11-15). The religious leaders bribed the Roman guards to spread the rumor, i.e. conspiracy theory, the disciples has stolen the body. They even said they would straighten it out with the authorities.
Theories about the resurrection abound. The wrong tomb theory (the ladies went to the wrong tomb). The swoon theory (Jesus didn’t really die on the cross; He just passed out. He then revived in the cold, dark tomb, mustered enough strength to roll the stone away, overpower the guards and walk away). Wrong person theory (someone took His place on the cross and was mistaken for Jesus). Tell me: how ridiculous do those all sound? The conspiracies go on and on-ad infinitum, ad nauseum.
Unfounded “truths.” Gossip. Slander. Lies. Mean-spirited words. All are part of a subversive element that should not be, but is, in the church. Relationships and friendships cannot survive with that kind of garbage being present in individual lives, and especially in a church.
Let’s stick to the facts, the truth. Let’s not pay one bit of attention to political conspiracy theories. And certainly not give any credence to conspiracy theories that make their way into the church. THEY AIN’T WORTH IT! Let’s leave the conspiracy theories where they belong…in the trash.
The enemy has used the tactic of half-truths and lies from the beginning. The very beginning. Satan is not a creator, he can only manipulate. He can’t speak truth only change what is. Keep this is mind before sharing something that you have not confirmed as truth. The enemy loves to turn Christians against each other and will use whatever tactic He can.
Your last sentence is exactly what I am trying to get at Ryan. Thanks.
There’s so much untruth in the world, Bill, and it’s often hard to discern truth from fiction. Many people seem to want to live in the gray area and even make it grow with conspiracy theories. It’s like they’re truth adverse. I wonder why this is. Why do so many struggle seeing and living in truth? Why do they doubt it and even muck it up when they see it? Simple faith is as difficult today as it was in Jesus’ day. Instead of spending time pursuing theory, we need to spend time pursuing truth.
Wise words Kari. We do need to seek truth not the false.
Let’s leave conspiracy theories, especially religious ones, outside the church, Bill. In it, they have no place – period!
Blessings!
I agree Martha. Religious or political.
Paul wrote to all the churches warning them of all the things that would tear the church apart. The same issues that the early churches faced, are the same issues we face today. We have to be careful to not let the culture change God’s view or bend the Bible to go with the culture. God’s word has to stand as the absolute truth in which everything else is measured to. Christians have to not let satan divide the church, it the same tricks he has always used. Anytime satan can turn Christians against one another, he can create divisions and chaos and render the church useless for the Kingdom. Let’s stand on God’s word, pursue God above all else, and not give satan any room to work and create strongholds in our lives. Let’s stand united behind God, love one another and work together to build up the Kingdom of God.
Well said Gail. Our heats ought to be set on pursuing God and a deeper relationship with Him. That leaves out chasing after non-essential stuff, like divisive theories. I agree wholeheartedly on your last sentence.
It seems like anytime we divert our attention from the Bible we get off track. I never did like conspiracy theories because they are a waste of time.
I agree with you Ed. Conspiracy theories are called that for a reason.
So true, Pastor Bill. I can tell you with 100% certainty that Jesus rose from the dead because the transformation in my heart and life could never have happened had it not been for resurrection power! I know you surely understand what I mean. Praise God for the truth and that I am just simpleminded enough to take God at His Word and believe what He says!
I know exactly what you mean Cheryl. And I am also one of those simple-minded people who are willing to accept the truth of God’s Word just as it is written. Thanks