[Joshua]

Over the years I have watched several groups, claiming to be Christian, do clean up events, blood drives, clothing and food gathering events and such. I have also seen these same groups claim to have "The Truth" and that they are the only ones with "The Truth". Unfortunately these same groups that claim this exclusivity also pick and choose who they find desireable to share this information with. I've used this word before, "Pathetic"! These groups, when challenged, clam up, back away, become confrontational, change the subject, and/or make it seem like the person bringing up the challenge could not possibly understand the "Truth". Why is it that these groups cannot simply and honestly answer the challenge? I know the answer to this question and I don't want or need to pick and choose who gets to hear this TRUTH. The answer is because if these groups were to honestly address the challenges and the outside questions then they would have to admit that their foundational doctrines are flawed. (Not the "Truth" as previously presented.) It's possible that it would end them and they are unwilling to let go of the power and influence that they have aquired over their members.

 

I imagine all of the good that is possible if these groups could just swallow their pride, own up to their mistakes, and start really focusing on what is real and true. So many of the people that are in these groups just want to do what is right. These people deserve the chance to be able to do just that! 

 

The title of this post probably says it all. You can have all of the studies, gain all sorts of knowledge, do all sorts of works that help in different ways, but this does not produce a good character! People and groups can do all of this stuff and still be lost. Sad but true! What's more, when these groups do these events does it cost them anything? Having the members give their blood doesn't cost the groups anything. Having the members collect food and clothes doesn't cost the groups anything. The cost and effort comes from individuals. The ones that are trying to do the right things. I also find that when the members of many of these groups are in need there is always some kind of excuse given instead of doing what Jesus showed as an example. Jesus fed the masses when they needed food He didn't say pray about it, go in peace and be blessed. HE gave! HE met the needs! HE set the example! This is the character these members should be shown and taught to be like. This will produce a good character.