Hold Fast

"Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."  Col. 2:8

In the 1960's a theological movement in western culture claimed that 'God is Dead.'  The Time cover story of  April, 1966 was entitled "Is God Dead?" and featured these words in crimson red against a black back-ground.  The theologians behind this movement echoed Nietzsche's eulogy of hubris in  the 'Gay Science' and proceeded to create, as it were, a theology without God.  They wanted to create a post-christian theology for a post-christian world.

As I looked up some information on two of the three theologians who were at the epicenter of this movement I found that two had passed into history one of which as recently as (March 2012), and one is still alive.  What is significant to me is that they caused an incredible amount of controversy in the time, and shook the faith of many, many people.

Think about all of the violence and social upheaval during that time, and how our country was at war both abroad and at home.  We as a country was in the midst of an identity crisis, and we were rent asunder as a nation.  We were in the midst of a cultural civil 'war' and in need of a word from on high.  Instead of a word from on high the words 'God is Dead' created an epic spiritual tsunami.

During the time of Paul there were men who equally sought to overthrow the faith of others by teaching seductive lies that tantalized the soul, but did not edify or build up the latter.  Paul told the saints at Colosse that they must beware of the Gnostic philosophy that taught asceticism, the worship of angels, and initiation into various levels of spiritual insight, and ultimately spiritual perfection.

Paul wanted the saints to know that not only were these teachings seductive, but they were also empty and filled with delusion.  I have learned over the years that trendy theologies come and go, and those who follow them are ultimately left betrayed by the experience.  Beloved believe not every spirit, but test the spirit to see if it is of God.

Paul also warned that we are to test everything, and not just some things.  Watch your emotions and do not allow your emotions to lead you astray form the Iesous.  Hold fast to the Iesous, and he will hold fast to you.
Your soul-life is precious, and there are those who want to steal your hope by telling you that God is Dead.

God is not dead.  Mark Twain once said, "The rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated" and let me say that the rumors of God's death have been greatly exaggerated.  The Iesous said, "I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forever more, Amen; and have the keys of hell (hades) and of death."  Rev.1:18

Hold fast to the Iesous, and stand off from the empty philosophy of those who want to manipulate and control you for evil ends.  The Iesous has given all for you when he died on the cross.  It is to our eternal benefit that we hold fast to Him.  If you find that you do not have the strength to hold fast to Him ask and He will grant to you the faith to remain faithful.

Blessings to you.

For more information about Dr. Rich and his teaching ministry, please follow his blog and visit his website.