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Volume. XXI, No. 33 Biblical Separation Or Back To Rome“Biblical separation (i.e.-the separation of the church and its members from unbelief, apostasy and compromise) is a much neglected doctrine today. The doctrine of separation is not just a denominational distinctive, but an ecclesiastical principal that must be adopted by every Bible-believing Christian and church. Separation in the light of Scripture is not an option but a command” (Jeffrey Khoo, Biblical Separation pp11 & 13).
The concept of separation according to the Bible is fundamental to God’s relationship with His people. The doctrines of separation in the Old and New Testaments are given to us to warn us of the wrath of God. They are also for our admonition and instruction. Biblical separation is not a new teaching. Biblical separation dates back to the very first book of the Bible.
Today, more so during this end time, this is an urgent message to all Bible believing churches to separate themselves from the apostate churches and even within the church congregation itself to remain pure.
Why must we be reminded of this fundamental teaching? Many Christians today have departed from the true teaching of Christ and are marching back to Rome. Our Lord has taught us that we must stand firm and be steadfast in our faith. As such, we must have no part in the Ecumenical movement. Let us always strive to remain faithful and God fearing. Let us continue to hold true to the teachings of our one true God. Like the remnants during the Old Testament time let us be His remnants of today.
Today, there is an urgent need for us to bring the message of Biblical separation to counter the tide of Ecumenism and Neo-Evangelism. These movements are calling the Christians back to Rome. They are saying that there are other ways to heaven. They subscribe to the premise that Jesus is not the only way. What heresy! Is this the teaching of Christ?
The truth must be preached. The truth must be heard. The Bible teaches us that there is only one way to heaven. For Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). “He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life” (1 John 5:12). These two Bible texts need no further explanation or clarification. Their meanings are very explicit.
True believers will not compromise their stand for God and neither does a church that adheres to the doctrines of Jesus Christ. Let us continue to “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3). As we are approaching the day of our Lord’s return let us not pay lip service only to what has been given to us in Jude 3 but let us earnestly defend the faith and the truth of God. God abhors all forms of syncretic worship and ecumenical fellowship that mix truth with error.
Let us learn from the Bible the consequences of idolatry, false teaching and the need for Biblical separation. The ultimate division of people before God is between those who are in Christ and those who are not. The Bible explicitly teaches us why God wants us to come out of the world. God’s teaching from the Bible shows us the consequences of non-separation. If we do not abide by His teachings we will incur His wrath.
The world is not getting any better. Satan has a limited time on earth and he is out to destroy as many souls as he can. We are living in the time of Sodom and Gomorrah where man’s vices are lauded and persistently strived for. Instant gratification is what the citizens of this world are lusting for. The world is thumbing its nose at God. Many of God’s people are turning their backs to God too. In this aspect, Satan is winning the war as many so-called Christians succumb to itchy ears. Because of apostasy, many churches are preaching a different doctrine today.
Believers should avoid situations that would force them to divide their loyalties. Believers must not put themselves in a situation whereby their relationship with Christ will be compromised or corrupted. A believer’s association with unbelievers should be such as is necessary to show unbelievers the way to salvation.
Church leaders must be alerted to false teachers who preach false doctrines and these false teachings must be exposed and nipped in the bud. Hence, it is of utmost importance that guest speakers must be carefully screened before they are invited to the pulpit. Also, any disagreement within the church about doctrines of Biblical separation in particular must be quickly resolved. Any issues from within the church regarding Biblical separation must not be taken with a pinch of salt. They will fester if left unchecked.
Let us thank God for raising men like J. Gresham Machen, Charles Haddock Spurgeon and Rev Wang Ming Tao who faithfully contended for the faith. Today, let us thank the capable leadership of Rev. Dr Timothy Tow and Dr Tow Siang Hwa who have established missionary out-reaches in many countries to combat the tide of Ecumenism. As the march back to Rome intensifies let the remnant stand firm and have no part in the Ecumenical movement.
The purpose of separation is that we as God’s people might persevere in salvation (1 Timothy 4:16), faith (1 Timothy 1:19) and holiness (John 17:14-21). That we can live wholly for God as our Lord and Father (Matthew 23:27) and convince the unbelieving world of the truth and blessings of the gospel (John 17:21).
Let us heed the exhortation of the apostle Paul when he urged us to “come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6: 17&18).
The Apostle Paul makes it unmistakably clear that one cannot claim the wonderful promises and the grace of God without a life of separation and holiness.
Deacon Tony Law |
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