God’s True Church

Come to Bethel, and transgress; to Gilgal, and multiply transgression; bring your sacrifices every morning, your tithes every three days; offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving of that which is leavened, and proclaim freewill offerings, publish them; for so you love to do, O people of Israel!” declares the Lord GOD.
Amos 4:4–5
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God’s True Church
            Much of modern Christianity is mocked by our unbelieving brothers and sisters. And why wouldn’t it be? What is presented as Christian worship is more akin to a Hollywood production or the latest rock concert. There is little mention of Jesus, or Law and Gospel. The listener's emotions and feelings are presented as the arbiter of truth and not God’s Word. It seems we have not learned much from the days of Amos. In these passages Amos suggest that they give into their false and idolatrous ways, as they evidently care more about making a show of worship more than they actually love God’s Word and what He has done for them. Far too many churches these days do the same thing. They refuse to worship God in spirit and truth. They are more concerned about telling the people what they want to hear as opposed to telling them what they need to hear. If your church does this leave, go to a church that preaches Christ crucified and nothing else. Who gives you God’s Word in Law and Gospel, and rightly administers the Sacraments. Do not fall for the flashy personalities and concert like atmosphere. Go to where the place where God says He will be, whether or not you “feel” Him or are moved by the experience. Our emotional response does not indicate the presence of God. God's promise is what we rest secure on, and He promises to be in His Word and Sacraments, He promises to be in His church. When you find that Church you will hear Jesus, you will receive His gifts, and He will change you.