Diabolic Churches
In 1966 in San Francisco, California a man named Anton S. LaVey started the First Church of Satan. Since that time, this movement has multiplied considerably until now there are hundreds of such groups of various names. These churches have many of the expected teachings and generally consider their religion a religion of today. Now, many people don’t believe in such “silly myths” as Satan, but if he is real, it seems likely that some would follow him in such a fashion.
In spite of the “revival” mentioned above, for centuries there has been in nearly all cities and towns, about as many diabolic churches as conventional ones. They compete with conventional churches and in many respects imitate their services. These diabolic churches have well attended fellowship meetings, not as much on Sundays, but all other days – especially evenings. Their members are quite faithful attendees, and often out-do conventional churchgoers. These churches have an elaborate music program of loud hymnology which provides much of the doctrine taught. The traditional altar in these churches is much longer than conventional altars. Many of the worshipers sit at these altars. Libations of many varieties are available, and offerings are generally collected when libations are dispensed. By “dancing in the spirit(s),” some of these churches even imitate conventional charismatic groups. Now, the distressing fact of all this “diabolic” worship is that instead of promoting God’s blessing as do most conventional churches, these meetings promote Satan’s curse on mankind. This of course, is in order since his objective is “to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.” John 10:10a
The reader should realize by now that the diabolic churches described are bars and night clubs. Of course, this whole concept may seem ridiculous to many, but the connection is especially real in the practical respect. These “churches” promote blasphemy, addictions, loose living, divorces and broken homes, highway slaughter, and full surrender to very real evil spirits (demons) through drunkenness/alcoholism. Many in this crowd deny Satan’s existence and power over them, but that makes our adversary no difference at all, as long as he ruins their lives and wins their souls. Consider the words of Solomon “Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler; and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.” Proverbs 20:1
Why not avoid those subtle snares of death and plug into the Lord Jesus Christ and His blessings for time and eternity: The Bible is clear, “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” John 1:12 “He who gives heed to the word will prosper; and happy is he who trusts in the Lord.” Proverbs 16:20 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 Choose Jesus Christ and His churches. There is life there, and hope. And the rest of that John 10:10 ref. above is where Jesus says, "I am come that they may have life, and have it more abundantly." See also link 73 "Divine Presence".
Other interesting Titles: www.gospelnotes.org * * F. J. Stone * *
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