Christianity Uncluttered

By Cougan Collins

lgchurchofchrist@cableone.net

My wife and I were looking for a tool the other day. We knew (or we thought we knew) exactly where it was. As we climbed over the clutter in our storage shed, we both came to the same conclusion—we’ve got to get rid of this clutter!

Although we never found what we were looking for, my mind started to dwell on how Christianity through the centuries had become cluttered with men’s doctrines. We need to remove the man-made clutter from churches so that men can follow the simple teaching of the New Testament of Jesus Christ.

The Bible gives the answer to where all this clutter came from. Paul warned the elders of the church in Ephesus: “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves, shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them” (Acts 20:28-30).

The Bible teaches that man has no right to add to the Word. Paul wondered why many had swerved from the Gospel: “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: which is not another but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accused” (Gal. 1:6-8).

The Bible teaches that the Word is complete. No further additions are needed since “all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

Our Lord rebukes those that would add to his Word. Shall we heed Jesus’ wishes? “Howbeit, in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For, laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men” (Mk. 7:7-8).

To tamper with the Word of God is a fearful thing (Rev. 22:18-19). Why would anyone desire to add to or subtract from the perfect will of God? If it is your desire to study and obey the Word of God, uncluttered, pay us a visit. We have much in common.

Adapted Donald Fox