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Charles Naylor

Religious Toys

Charles Naylor 2 min read
#Biblical Authority #The Law and the Gospel
2 Articles 1 Sermon
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Charles Naylor
Charles Naylor 2 min read
2 articles 1 sermons
What does the Bible say about religious customs?

The Bible teaches that human-devised religious customs can distract from true faith in God.

Scripture emphasizes the importance of focusing on the truths of the Bible rather than elevating human traditions or customs. As indicated in Psalm 19:7-10, God's law and commands are to be cherished over human interpretations and practices. True Christianity should not be tied to customs we have created but should solely reflect what is taught in Scripture. It is crucial for believers to avoid becoming overly attached to these 'religious toys' that can mask the essential doctrines of the faith.

Psalm 19:7-10

How do we know that religious forms are not vital to faith?

We recognize that religious forms are often human inventions and lack a vital connection to divine truth.

The persistence of religious customs can sometimes cloud our understanding of authentic Christianity. Charles Naylor points out that many believers feel a deep connection to these forms, to the point where they equate them with their faith. However, Scripture teaches that our relationship with God is grounded in His Word, not in human traditions. By reassessing our attachments to these 'toys' we create, we can return to the core of Christian doctrine that aligns with biblical teachings.

Psalm 19:7-10

Why are religious customs important for Christians?

While customs can provide structure, they should not outweigh the importance of Biblical truth.

Religious customs may serve as frameworks within which believers practice their faith, offering a sense of community and belonging. Nevertheless, it is vital to remember that these forms should not become sacred in themselves. Believers must carefully evaluate their practices to ensure they align with Scripture. The richness of God's laws and precepts as described in Psalm 19 reminds us that true joy and wisdom come from aligning our lives with His Word, rather than human-made structures. Recognizing this distinction helps guard against false attachments that could hinder spiritual growth.

Psalm 19:7-10

    Satan always works to make us think that humanly devised religious forms or customs are things of vital importance. In fact, some of these are much harder to break away from than we suppose them to be. They take a deeper hold upon us many times, than divine truth. People feel as though they would be giving up their religion, if they would surrender these forms. A particular mode of dress becomes sacred; or a particular form of worship or service becomes exalted above all other forms. We must recognize these things as being merely human devices, and as having no vital connection with Biblical truth. 

    We should never become wedded to our religious forms and customs. Let us look away from these religious toys which we have whittled out for ourselves, and back to the fundamentals of Christian doctrine and life. If we have labeled our religious customs as 'Christianity'—then let us tear off these labels, and see that henceforth we call nothing Christian but that which is clearly taught in Scripture itself.

"The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure and altogether righteous.
They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb." (Psalm 19:7-10)

Topics:
Churchianity

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