Sunday, September 9, 2018

DO NOT BE DECEIVED BY THESE PEOPLE

From time to time, I have met Christians who tells me that God requires of me as a follower of Jesus Christ to observe Jewish dates and festivities, keeping rules, including the Sabbath law. They seem to believe that keeping these Old Testament feast traditions and laws elevates their Christian walk. 

Many of them are very zealous, prideful and arrogant in their quest to convince you to get on board with this belief system.

Yet, the Bible says in the New Testament:

“In the same way, some think one day is more holy than another day, while others think every day is alike. You should each be fully convinced that whichever day you choose is acceptable.” Romans 14:5 NLT

“So don’t let anyone condemn you for what you eat or drink, or for not celebrating certain holy days or new moon ceremonies or Sabbaths.  For these rules are only shadows of the reality yet to come. And Christ Himself is that reality.” Colossians 2:16-17 NLT

This is because of what the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ did for us, as is written:

“For Christ Himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in His own body on the cross, He broke down the wall of hostility that separated us. He did this by ending the system of law with its commandments and regulations.” Ephesians 2:14-15 NLT

The same warning from the apostle Paul to the Galatians also count for us today! Remember, after coming to faith in Christ, Paul completely stopped following Jewish laws! So, do not be deceived!

“So now that you know God (or should I say, now that God knows you), why do you want to go back again and become slaves once moreto the weak and useless spiritual principles of this world? You are trying to earn favor with God by observing certain days or months or seasons or years. I fear for you. Perhaps all my hard work with you was for nothing. Dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to live as I do in freedom from these things, for I have become like you Gentiles—free from those laws.”  Galatians 4:9-12 NLT

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