This essay continues a sequence. Read the previous one here.
You could be worshipping a man-made idol, while being completely unaware of the fact.
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In “Faith Is A Halfway House” we asserted that true faith is the mature person taking loving action with childlike trust in The Word, this being equivalent to childlike trust in the power of Love and Truth.
In the essay that preceded this one we explored faith out of habit as an example of a behaviour pattern which is commonly believed to express faith, but does not.
Today we examine another form of “faith”.
Faith in Organisations
This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth,
— KJV, Matthew 15:8-9
and honoureth me with their lips;
but their heart is far from me.
But in vain they do worship me,
teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
If our faith primarily expresses itself through membership of an organisation, we are intermixing faith in The Word with faith in the precepts of the organisation and the instructions of its leaders.
We are at risk of being followers of the organization, instead of followers of The Word.
Organisations, missions, churches, or movements of a spiritual intent can be helpful. They serve a useful purpose when they seek to humbly support the spiritual development of their members i.e. act as a guide, not as a controller.
Unfortunately this is not always the case.
Who’s Fault? Leaders or Followers?
On the one hand those who attain leadership positions often claim a right to exercise power over others and to receive special privileges. They do not enjoy being humble servants or being regarded as such.
Neither be ye called masters:
— Matthew 23:10-12
for one is your Master, even Christ.
But he that is greatest among you
shall be your servant.
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On the other hand the followers would rather be told what to do than to exert the continuous effort to study and practise The Word so as to gain the personal experiences that lead to spiritual knowledge (ref. “Act To Experience To Know“).
They rely heavily on the views and interpretations of others (their leaders) instead of gaining insight by following The Word personally:
If any man will come after me,
— Luke 9:23
let him deny himself,
and take up his cross daily,
and follow me.
The growth and continuance of the organization becomes a primary goal, and this detracts from what should be the only focus: the personal spiritual growth of each individual.
teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
Members at all levels come to believe that adherence to behaviors and protocols established by the organisation are at the same time adherence to The Word.
They believe that services done under the aegis of this organisation – administrative work, evangelical work, monetary contributions, attendance at functions – are automatically services done in service of The Word.
They believe that “seniority” within the administrative structure of the organization is indicative of higher spiritual standing before God.
This sets the scene for place-hunting and political maneuvering, behaviors that should be impossible in organisations with spiritual goals.
Faith Is Independent
True faith is focused on service to God expressed through service to mankind. It is a life of Love and Truth as revealed in The Word and as expressed through every thought, word, and action. It is primarily expressed in everyday life, not within the strictures of an organisation.
If the organisation fosters this active and independent mindset amongst its members, it is a good thing. Otherwise it becomes an impediment.
True faith has no direct connection with an organisation. It is directed only towards the Source of Love and Truth: The Word.
Today’s Resolution
- We shall refocus our faith solely on The Word, believing in the primacy of Love and Truth in all things and aligning our daily actions accordingly, irrespective of external influences.
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