In reading The Sovereignty of God by A.W. Pink, I saw something that made me remember events over the years.
It is ignorance of doctrine that has rendered the professing church helpless to cope with the rising tide of infidelity.
When I returned to the church four years ago, I watched and listened for a long time – about two years. After this observation time was over, I began to participate and during a conversation I talked about perseverance of the saints. The individual did not know what that meant so I used the phrase “once saved, always saved” and they still did not know what I meant. I was a little surprised because I was attending a Baptist church at the time and this is a strong point in their doctrine.
Not long after that I was serving with a group and a question was asked about where marriage is limited to one person (meaning does the Bible reject polygamy). I did not want to overstep my bounds but no one answered so I mentioned the verse in Genesis where the two become one. Then months later during a study of the book of Romans there was a question asked about where circumcision came from. I left that night completely distraught.
All three of these individuals had been attending church for most or all of their lives. These are just a few examples I have personally experienced. If we are ignorant of basic tenants of our faith then how can we stand when we are asked to defend it? We must be ready to give an answer.
Ephesians 6:13 – For this reason, take up the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand your ground on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand.
How do you help encourage others to take up the full armor of God?
1 Peter 3:15 – But set Christ apart as Lord in your hearts and always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks about the hope you possess.
How do you help encourage others to be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks?
Yes, dear.