"Exposing by Contrast"
Letter to the Editor: GOD'S MESSAGE, April 2011, p.3
BEING ALWAYS ON THE ROAD, it has become my hobby to tune in to your radio station (DZEM 954 khz) I must admit that I learn a lot from your programs especially with regards to various religious beliefs. In your attempt to be fair and objective, I also noticed that you quote from books written by authorities of other religions. However my wife once quipped why your speakers at times deal with the beliefs of other religions instead of just confining yourselves to the doctrines you uphold. Is that approach not against the Bible?
Peter John IsidroManila, Philippines
Editor's reply:
Thank you for writing us and for tuning in to our religious programs on local radio, DZEM 954kHz.
In discussing the truth about the teachings of other religions, our modest objective is to correct the erroneous doctrines which will cause man not to inherit the kingdom of God. (Gal. 5:20-21, New King James Version) To attain such a noble aim, there are some instances when we cannot avoid comparing the beliefs espoused by different religions with the tenets of the Bible, being the sole basis of the true faith. In doing so, we only use the Bible according to its intended function:
".... you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus, All scriptures is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God maybe complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work" (II Tim. 3:15-17, ibid.).
Notice that aside from being profitable for doctrine and instruction, the Holy Scriptures is also useful for "reproof" and "correction". The Church of Christ therefore believes that examining other religious beliefs in the light of biblical precepts eventually leads to understanding and enlightenment on the part of the people concerned.
Consequently, identifying what is false is effective and oftentimes necessary to show the truth. And since it is a duty of the Church of Christ to share what is true concerning God's wisdom (Eph. 3:10), exposing false teachings for the purpose of enlightening others , is therefore unavoidable and necessary. As a matter of fact, the Apostle Paul recommends this method of exposing the truth. He taught: "Try to discover what the Lord wants of you, having nothing to do with the futile works of darkness but exposing them by contrast" (Eph.5:10-11,Jerusalem Bible).
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Note: Some words and phrases are in italics for emphasis.
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