For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us. - 2 Timothy 1:12-14
Three young men who say they are athiests decided to “sample” and report on several churches in their city. One of these men said, “There is something other than teaching that is appealing to people. We didn’t see a lot of doctrine… The appeal was mostly the community. The content in most churches isn’t nearly as important as the packaging.” The three atheists offered the explanation for why thousands of people in their area attend church each Sunday: The attractions stems more from a person’s Christian identity than from what religion teaches.
Their experience agrees with the observation of author A.W. Tozer who said, “Increasing number of [Christians] are becoming ashamed to be found unequivocally on the side of truth. They say they believe, but their beliefs have been diluted as to be impossible of clear definition.”
The apostle Paul knew whom he believed, and he instructed young Timothy to “hold fast” to the truth he had been taught (2 Timothy 1:12-14). We too need to hold tightly to our beliefs based on the unfailing, God-inspired Bible. What we believe about God is more crucial than any feeling we get by being in church. Paul calls us to “stand firm on the Word of God that lives and abides forever.”
Since by faith I have clear vision,
Your blest Word is rich and new;
Men with eyes by sin distorted
Cannot all its treasures view.
Don’t be a Christian in name only.
