With all of the different religions, how can I know which one is correct?

[Patriot]

Do Catholics worship idols / practice idolatry?​

ANSWER

Sadly, our Catholic friends and family members have been indoctrinated to believe that the use of statues, relics, and other articles is acceptable and even necessary for worship. They have been taught by the Roman Catholic Church that the images and icons used in the church are not actually “worshiped” but are simply “visual aids” to worship.

The Catholic Church long ago began making allowances for the idolatrous use of images by the way they reference the Ten Commandments. In the Catholic catechism and in most official Catholic documents, the first and second commandments are combined and then summarized with “I am the Lord your God. You shall not have other gods beside Me.” Suspiciously absent is what comprises the second commandment in the Protestant numbering of the Ten Commandments: “You shall not make any graven images.”

While it is understandable for “you shall not make any graven images” to be considered an aspect of “you shall not have other gods beside me,” based on the history of idolatry involving graven images throughout biblical and extra-biblical history, it seems unwise to not include “you shall not make any graven images” in every listing of the Ten Commandments. The omission seems especially suspicious in light of the fact that the Roman Catholic Church has long been accused of the idolatrous use of graven images.

There are good reasons for not using images in worship. First of all, the use of physical images to “aid” worship violates the command to worship God “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:23-24). Also, no one knows what God looks like, and John 1:18 is clear concerning this truth: “No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him.” And, because God is Spirit (John 4:24a), it is irreverent to delineate Him as an iconic representation. No one alive knows what Jesus Christ looked like in the flesh, and, since there were no cameras when He walked the earth, the only description of His appearance is found in Isaiah 53:2-3, which says that He had “no stately form or majesty.”

The lack of a physical description of Christ has not stopped the Catholic Church from depicting Him. Throughout Catholic churches, institutions, convents, monasteries, and every other Catholic-affiliated building and shrine, there are paintings of God the Father, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, Mary, Joseph, and a myriad of canonized saints. There are statues in abundance; there are relics, such as bone fragments, said to have belonged to certain saints. Some shrines even contain pieces of wood purported to be part of Jesus’ cross. All of these things are held to be sacred objects worthy of high regard. The idolatry is rampant and fairly obvious to non-Catholics, yet Catholics do not believe they are committing idolatry. They have been cleverly taught to believe that they do not worship these idols; they simply “venerate” them. The problem is that “veneration” still gives honor and reverence to something and/or someone other than God; therefore, veneration is idolatry.

Yes, Catholics do practice a form of idolatry, in violation of God’s command. The best way to reach our Catholic friends with the gospel of grace is to pray that the Holy Spirit will draw them and that they will respond to the Spirit’s leading. Their eyes and hearts are blinded by the false teaching they are continually hearing, and, until they begin to seek the truth, we must leave it in God’s capable hands. As we pray, we must keep loving them and trust that God will prepare the soil of their hearts (Luke 8:11-15). Never give up hope; the Holy Spirit does miracles every day.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

40 Questions About Roman Catholicism by Gregg Allison

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[septuagint]

 

[Patriot]

What are the names of angels in the Bible?​

ANSWER

The Bible describes angels as powerful spiritual beings whom God created to perform specific jobs both in heaven and on earth. And although the Bible often mentions a “host” of angels, it only names a few.

Gabriel is the most well-known named angel to appear in Scripture. Each time he is mentioned, we see him act as a messenger to impart wisdom or a special announcement from God. In the book of Daniel, Gabriel appeared to the prophet Daniel in order to explain some visions God gave Daniel about the end times (Daniel 8:15–27; 9:20–27). While Daniel still had trouble understanding the visions, Gabriel’s explanations, along with other biblical information about the end times, have allowed us to come to some conclusions about how the end times will play out.

Gabriel also appears in the New Testament. He appears to Zacharias in the temple to herald the news that Zacharias’s wife, Elizabeth, would give birth to John. Gabriel also approaches Mary with the announcement of the birth of Christ. Later, Joseph receives guidance in a couple visits from Gabriel. Because of the monumental importance of these history-shaping announcements, it seems likely that Gabriel is one of God’s chief messengers.

The second angel the Bible calls by name is Michael, who functions very differently from the angel Gabriel. Michael is an archangel, which means “chief angel”; this title indicates that Michael holds a high rank in heaven. Although it is not certain that Michael is the only archangel, the possibility exists, according to Jude 1:9, where Michael is referred to in definite terms as “the archangel Michael.” If other archangels exist, it is likely that Michael leads them.

When Michael appears in the Bible, it is usually in a battle of some type. He wars with the fallen angels (those who sinned against God and became demons) and Satan on behalf of God and His people. Michael appears several times in the book of Daniel as a warrior (see Daniel 10:21 and 12:1). In one instance, the angel Gabriel describes Michael as fighting against the demonic “prince of the Persian kingdom,” enabling Gabriel to reach Daniel and explain the visions to him (Daniel 10:13).

Michael is also seen in the book of Revelation, when he battles the great dragon—Satan—during the end times (Revelation 12:7–9). The fact that Michael is leading an army of angels against Satan himself testifies to Michael’s high rank and power.

If fallen angels are included in the list of angels who are named in the Bible, two more names should be mentioned: Lucifer/Satan and Apollyon/Abaddon. Lucifer rebelled against God and was thrown down from heaven along with the angels who followed him. Before his rebellion, Lucifer was a beautiful and powerful being; but he coveted equality with the Most High God and therefore became unholy and cursed (Isaiah 14:12–18; Luke 10:18). He is now known as Satan and is God’s chief enemy who seeks to deceive and destroy all of mankind (John 10:10). Apollyon/Abaddon is another fallen angel, mentioned in Revelation 9:11, and he leads an end-times demonic army.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

What does the Bible say about angels?​

ANSWER

Angels are personal spiritual beings who have intelligence, emotions, and will. This is true of both the good and evil angels (demons). Angels possess intelligence (Matthew 8:29; 2 Corinthians 11:3; 1 Peter 1:12), show emotion (Luke 2:13; James 2:19; Revelation 12:17), and exercise will (Luke 8:28-31; 2 Timothy 2:26; Jude 6). Angels are spirit beings (Hebrews 1:14) without true physical bodies. Although they do not have physical bodies, they are still personalities.

Because they are created beings, their knowledge is limited. This means they do not know all things as God does (Matthew 24:36). They do seem to have greater knowledge than humans, however, which may be due to three things. First, angels were created as an order of creatures higher than humans. Therefore, they innately possess greater knowledge. Second, angels study the Bible and the world more thoroughly than humans do and gain knowledge from it (James 2:19; Revelation 12:12). Third, angels gain knowledge through long observation of human activities. Unlike humans, angels do not have to study the past; they have experienced it. Therefore, they know how others have acted and reacted in situations and can predict with a greater degree of accuracy how we may act in similar circumstances.

Though they have wills, angels, like all creatures, are subject to the will of God. Good angels are sent by God to help believers (Hebrews 1:14). Here are some activities the Bible ascribes to angels:

They praise God (Psalm 148:1-2; Isaiah 6:3). They worship God (Hebrews 1:6; Revelation 5:8-13). They rejoice in what God does (Job 38:6-7). They serve God (Psalm 103:20; Revelation 22:9). They appear before God (Job 1:6; 2:1). They are instruments of God’s judgments (Revelation 7:1; 8:2). They bring answers to prayer (Acts 12:5-10). They aid in winning people to Christ (Acts 8:26; 10:3). They observe Christian order, work, and suffering (1 Corinthians 4:9; 11:10; Ephesians 3:10; 1 Peter 1:12). They encourage in times of danger (Acts 27:23-24). They care for the righteous at the time of death (Luke 16:22).

Angels are an entirely different order of being than humans. Human beings do not become angels after they die. Angels will never become, and never were, human beings. God created the angels, just as He created humanity. The Bible nowhere states that angels are created in the image and likeness of God, as humans are (Genesis 1:26). Angels are spiritual beings that can, to a certain degree, take on physical form. Humans are primarily physical beings, but with a spiritual aspect. The greatest thing we can learn from the holy angels is their instant, unquestioning obedience to God’s commands.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

What does the Bible say about angels? | GotQuestions.org​

5,921 views Oct 29, 2021 Do angels exist? If so, what do angels do? What are angels? What are the different types of angels? In reference to angels and demons, what are fallen angels? Were angels ever human? In this video, Pastor Nelson with Bible Munch answers the question, “What does the Bible say about angels?”.

*** Source Article: https://www.gotquestions.org/angels-B...

*** Check out, Bible Munch! @Bible Munch https://www.youtube.com/BibleMunch

 

[Patriot]

Do we have guardian angels?​

ANSWER

Matthew 18:10 states, “See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.” In the context, “these little ones” could either apply to those who believe in Him (v. 6) or it could refer to the little children (vs. 3-5). This is the key passage regarding guardian angels. There is no doubt that good angels help protect (Daniel 6:20-23; 2 Kings 6:13-17), reveal information (Acts 7:52-53; Luke 1:11-20), guide (Matthew 1:20-21; Acts 8:26), provide for (Genesis 21:17-20; 1 Kings 19:5-7), and minister to believers in general (Hebrews 1:14).

The question is whether each person—or each believer—has an angel assigned to him/her. In the Old Testament, the nation of Israel had the archangel (Michael) assigned to it (Daniel 10:21; 12:1), but Scripture nowhere states that an angel is “assigned” to an individual (angels were sometimes sent to individuals, but there is no mention of permanent assignment). The Jews fully developed the belief in guardian angels during the time between the Old and New Testament periods. Some early church fathers believed that each person had not only a good angel assigned to him/her, but a demon as well. The belief in guardian angels has been around for a long time, but there is no explicit scriptural basis for it.

To return to Matthew 18:10, the word “their” is a collective pronoun in the Greek and refers to the fact that believers are served by angels in general. These angels are pictured as “always” watching the face of God so as to hear His command to them to help a believer when it is needed. The angels in this passage do not seem to be guarding a person so much as being attentive to the Father in heaven. The active duty or oversight seems, then, to come more from God than from the angels, which makes perfect sense because God alone is omniscient. He sees every believer at every moment, and He alone knows when one of us needs the intervention of an angel. Because they are continually seeing His face, the angels are at His disposal to help one of His “little ones.”

It cannot be emphatically answered from Scripture whether or not each believer has a guardian angel assigned to him/her. But, as stated earlier, God does use angels in ministering to us. It is scriptural to say that He uses them as He uses us; that is, He in no way needs us or them to accomplish His purposes, but chooses to use us and them nevertheless (Hebrews 1:7). In the end, whether or not we have an angel assigned to protect us, we have an even greater assurance from God: if we are His children through faith in Christ, He works all things together for good (Romans 8:28-30), and Jesus Christ will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6). If we have an omniscient, omnipotent, all-loving God with us, does it really matter whether or not there is a finite guardian angel protecting us?

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

Do we have guardian angels?​

8,165 views Aug 12, 2020 Do we have guardian angels? Does each person have an angel assigned to protect him/her? If God is watching over us, what is the point of a guardian angel?

Article: https://www.gotquestions.org/guardian...

 

[Patriot]

What do angels do?​

ANSWER

Angels do many things. All that angels do is in reference to God and according to His will. The good angels (elect angels) worship and serve God, while also having a role in the world that the Lord created. There are different types of angels with unique roles: archangels, cherubim, and seraphim, for example. In the Bible, Michael the archangel is listed as being the chief of angels and seems to have a special role regarding Israel (Daniel 10:13; 12:1). In addition, the other named angel in Scripture, Gabriel, was tasked with delivering important messages to Daniel, Zechariah, and Mary (Daniel 8:15–26; Luke 1:11–17, 19; 2:26–37). Some angels will have specific tasks in the future, such as the seven angels in charge of sounding the seven trumpets during the tribulation (Revelation 8:6—9:19).

The Bible tells us that angels worship the Lord and offer praises to Him (Psalm 148:2; Luke 2:13; Hebrews 1:6; Revelation 5:11–12). Thousands upon thousands of angels worship the Lord, bringing Him glory (Hebrews 12:22). At certain times God calls angels to present themselves before Him (Job 1:6; 2:1). Angels also serve God and carry out His commands (Psalm 103:20). Some of these commands include being sent by God to answer prayer (Daniel 10:12; Acts 12:5–10) and serve and protect believers (Psalm 34:7; Daniel 6:22; Hebrews 1:14). At times, God can use angels as instruments of judgment on unbelieving and rebellious people and nations (Genesis 19:13; Acts 12:23; Revelation 15:6–8). Everything that angels do is in accordance with the will of God.

Scripture indicates that angels observe Christians and their lives (1 Corinthians 4:9; Ephesians 3:10). Angels cannot experience salvation, and they are interested in the conversion experience of individuals and the application of God’s grace (Luke 15:10). Salvation through Jesus’ death and resurrection is such an amazing event that angels desire to investigate the preaching of the gospel: “It is all so wonderful that even the angels are eagerly watching these things happen” (1 Peter 1:12, NLT). Angels have delivered messages to humans that have provided guidance and encouragement (Daniel 10:12, 14; Matthew 1:20–21; Luke 1:11–17, 19; 2:26–37; Acts 10:3–6; 27:23–24). Angels are “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14). At the end of a believer’s life, angels provide care at the time of death (Luke 16:22).

Scripture shows angels involved in battles in the spiritual realm (Daniel 10:13; Jude 1:9; Revelation 12:7–9). We may be unaware of the angelic battles, but they do happen. Angels also are a part of new epochs of history. Angels were present when the earth was created, giving praise to God (Job 38:4–7). At the giving of the law to Moses, angels were present and had a part in it (Acts 7:53). At the first coming of Jesus into the world, angels announced His birth (Luke 2:10–11). At the rapture, the archangel (presumably Michael) will be present and call out (1 Thessalonians 4:16). And during the tribulation, Jesus’ return, the millennial kingdom, and the eternal state, angels will have plenty to do, issuing punishment from God, binding Satan, and measuring the New Jerusalem (Revelation 5:11–12; 8:2–3, 6–12; 9:1, 13; 10:1; 14:6, 8–9; 15:6; 16; 18:1–3; 19:9; 20:1–3; 21:15; 22:1, 6).

Christians can learn much from the example of angels about obeying the Lord and praising His name. Truly, we can add our praises with the angels’ worship and say with the psalmist, “Let every living creature praise the LORD. Shout praises to the LORD!” (Psalm 150:6, CEV).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

How many angels are there?​

ANSWER

Only three angels are identified by name in the Bible: Gabriel (Daniel 8:16), Michael the archangel (Daniel 10:13), and Lucifer the fallen angel (Isaiah 14:12). Yet angelic beings are mentioned at least 273 times in 34 books of the Bible. While we don’t know exactly how many angels there are, we do know from Scripture that an exceedingly large number of angels exist.

The book of Hebrews describes a multitude of angels in heaven that are too great to count: “You have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to countless thousands of angels in a joyful gathering” (Hebrews 12:22, NLT). Other Bible translations use terms like “innumerable” (ESV), “myriads” (CSB), and “thousands upon thousands” (NIV) to quantify this enormous throng of angels. The impressive picture expands in the book of Revelation: “Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders” (Revelation 5:11). Other Bible versions use “myriads of myriads” (ESV) and even “millions” (NLT) here to express how many angels there are in heaven.

While the Bible leaves the precise number of angels unspecified, some believe there could be as many angels in existence as the total number of humans in all of history. This theory is based on Matthew 18:10: “Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father” (NLT). The passage seems to suggest that individual people, or at least children, have guardian angels to protect them. It’s possible, though, that Jesus was speaking here only in general terms regarding the function of angels as protectors of children. In any case, Scripture is clear that angels do guard and protect human beings (Psalm 34:7; 91:11–12; Matthew 18:10; Acts 12:9–15).

The Bible describes different classifications of angels. Some angels—the cherubim and seraphim—are described as winged creatures. Cherubim primarily attend the throne of God as guards, while it seems the seraphim attend His throne by offering worship and praise. (Ezekiel 1:4–28; 10:1–22; Isaiah 6:2–6). The Bible speaks of angels of light (2 Corinthians 11:14) and fallen angels (2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6).

Angels perform different tasks in the Bible. Some angels are God’s messengers (Daniel 4:13). Other angels are servants of God (Psalm 103:20; Hebrews 1:7; Psalm 104:4). “Watcher angels” are mentioned in the book of Daniel (Daniel 4:13, 17, 23). Angels are often described as military “hosts” of the celestial armies (Jeremiah 5:14; 38:17; 44:7; Hosea 12:5). Other times angels are called “sons of the mighty” (Psalm 89:6) or “sons of God” (Job 2:1).

A few passages of Scripture describe angels as stars (Revelation 9:1; 12:4; Job 38:7–8; Daniel 8:10; Judges 5:20). The idea of stars may give us our best clue as to how many angels there are. If angels are like the stars in heaven, they are too many to count. Moses says in Deuteronomy 33:2 that the Lord came to speak to him from Sinai with “myriads of holy ones,” or angels. How many are myriads? The primary definition of myriad as an adjective is “innumerable,” or “countless.” Psalm 68:17 says the angels of God number “tens of thousands, thousands and thousands” (CSB). Clearly, the writer has trouble even coming close to estimating the number of angels in existence.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

Do we become angels after we die?​

ANSWER

Angels are beings created by God (Colossians 1:15-17) and are entirely different from humans. They are God’s special agents to carry out His plan and to minister to the followers of Christ (Hebrews 1:13-14). There is no indication that angels were formerly humans or anything else—they were created as angels. Angels have no need of, and cannot experience, the redemption that Christ came to provide for the human race. First Peter 1:12 describes their desire to look into the Gospel, but it is not for them to experience. Had they been formerly humans, the concept of salvation would not be a mystery to them, having experienced it themselves. Yes, they rejoice when a sinner turns to Christ (Luke 15:10), but salvation in Christ is not for them.

Eventually, the body of the believer in Christ will die. What happens then? The spirit of the believer goes to be with Christ (2 Corinthians 5:8). The believer does not become an angel. It is interesting that both Elijah and Moses were recognizable on the Mount of Transfiguration. They had not transformed into angels, but appeared as themselves—although glorified—and were recognizable to Peter, James and John.

In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Paul tells us that believers in Christ are asleep in Jesus; that is, their bodies are dead, but their spirits are alive. This text tells us that when Christ returns, He will bring with Him those who are asleep in Him, and then their bodies will be raised, made new like Christ’s resurrected body, to be joined with their spirits which He brings with Him. All believers in Christ who are living at the return of Christ will have their bodies changed to be like Christ, and they will be completely new in their spirits, no longer having a sin nature.

All the believers in Christ will recognize one another and live with the Lord forever. We will serve Him throughout eternity, not as angels, but along with the angels. Thank the Lord for the living hope He provides for the believer in Jesus Christ.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

Do angels have souls?​

ANSWER

Understanding angels is a difficult task, and we may never have all the answers, but their appearances throughout Scripture give many insights into who they are and what they do. Whether angels have souls is not addressed in the Bible, but we can hypothesize.

God created angels, just as He created everything else (Colossians 1:16). He commands them, and they obey (Psalm 91:11; 103:20–21). They fight for God and protect His people (2 Kings 6:16–17; Psalm 91:11–12; Daniel 6:22; Matthew 26:53). They also act as messengers, bringing the word of God to people through dreams, visions, or simply by appearing before them (Matthew 1:20; 2:13; Luke 1:11–20; Acts 1:10–11; 8:26). We know that angels are spiritual beings, as Scripture describes them as “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14). The holy angels worship God (Job 38:7; Psalm 148:2; Luke 2:13–14; Revelation 5:11–12), but they do not receive worship for themselves (Revelation 19:10). While all these characteristics are remarkable, they do not answer questions about angels’ souls.

The Bible is unclear as to the exact nature of the soul, other than its being part of the spiritual nature of mankind. However, we can surmise that the soul is the central part of our personhood. People themselves are referred to as “souls” (Acts 2:41, NKJV). A human’s soul is immaterial and immortal; it persists after the human body dies (Daniel 12:2; 2 Corinthians 5:8–9). Angels are personal, spiritual beings (Hebrews 1:14), and they are immortal (Luke 20:36). However, Scripture never refers to angels as “souls,” and it seems the immaterial nature of angels is not the same thing as the immaterial human soul. Human beings are unique among creation because they are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Angels are a separate order of being, different from humans. People will not turn into angels at death, and angels will never become human. This clear distinction and the centrality of a soul in humanity would seem to indicate that angels do not have souls.

There are other biblical hints that angels are without souls. Human souls need atonement (Leviticus 17:11, NKJV), God protects and purifies souls (Titus 3:5; Hebrews 10:21–22), and a soul can be either lost or saved (Ezekiel 18:4; James 1:21). None of these qualities of the soul apply to angels. Angels do not need to be purified, atoned for, or saved. Hebrews 1—2 describes how Jesus is superior to angels and teaches that His salvation is for humans, not angels: “The Son did not come to help angels; he came to help the descendants of Abraham” (Hebrews 2:16, NLT). The angels worship Jesus (Hebrews 1:6). God “makes his angels spirits, and his servants flames of fire” (Hebrews 1:7). Holy angels serve those who are saved (Hebrews 1:14), but they themselves do not need salvation. This may be a further indication that angels do not have souls.

A point of clarification is in order. It is true that there are fallen angels who do not serve God and are, in fact, His enemies. We might think that these fallen angels need “salvation”; however, there is no indication in the Bible that they would ever seek to repent or that God has provided a way of salvation for them. They will be judged (2 Peter 2:4), and Satan will be cast into the lake of fire for all eternity (Revelation 20:7–15). Humans, on the other hand, do have the opportunity to avoid judgment through the blood of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:1–10; Romans 8:1; 10:9–13; John 3:16–18; 1 John 2:2). All who turn to God and put their faith in Jesus will be saved. Praise God that, in His grace, He has made a way for us to be saved and to dwell with Him forever (Revelation 21:1–4; John 14:3; Philippians 1:21–23).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

Can angels reproduce?​

ANSWER

Angels have been the subject of story, song, and folklore since time began. And, while angels are a reality—the Bible speaks of them often—much of what we imagine about them is total fiction. Angels have never been human, and humans do not become angels when they die. Angels are not fat babies with wings or beautiful women with an ethereal glow. Angels are spirit beings, created by God to serve Him and humanity (Hebrews 1:14). In the times the Bible describes their visits to earth, angels always appear as men (Daniel 9:21; Luke 1:26; Matthew 28:1–7). The Bible never describes a female angel. Some questions arise: is there a set number of angels? Is it possible for angels to reproduce?

The Bible never directly says whether angels reproduce, but Jesus touched on a related subject. When asked about human marriage in eternity, Jesus replied, “At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven” (Matthew 22:30). The fact that there is no marriage among angels has led some to believe that angels are “sexless” or genderless. Of course, if angels are genderless, then a safe assumption is that they do not reproduce—but that conclusion cannot be proved from the text. The fact that there is no marriage among angels does not necessarily mean there is no gender and no procreation. Angels do not marry, but we can’t make the leap from “no marriage” to “no gender” or “no reproduction,” however logical such a leap would seem.

One passage that might refer to the angels’ ability to reproduce is found in Genesis 6:1–4. Scholars have debated for centuries whether the “sons of God” mentioned here were angels. If they were, they might be identified with the fallen angels in Jude 1:6 who had left their primary purpose and defiled themselves, an act for which they were harshly judged. It could be that rebellious angelic spirits took on human form to the extent that they could engage in sexual union with human women and produce offspring who were only half-human. Some scholars speculate that this subhuman (or superhuman) race was the “mighty men of renown” referred to as Nephilim in Genesis 6:4. Because of the contamination of the human race, God sent the flood to annihilate them all (Genesis 6:5–7). However, since the Bible gives little detail about it, we can only speculate and should not base any doctrine on those speculations. Even if the Nephilim were the product of sinful angelic-human unions, it would not answer the question of whether angels reproduce with other angels to create new angels.

Angels who dwell in the presence of God live to serve and worship Him. The Bible never hints at the idea that angels reproduce or that they have any need to. As far as we know, angels do not die, so angelic reproduction is not necessary to continue the race of angelic beings. God created angels, He sustains them, and, if He desires more angels, He can create them.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

What are the elect angels?​

ANSWER

When God created the angels, they were all good just like the rest of creation (Genesis 1:31). Angels were holy and faithfully devoted to the Lord, but this changed when Satan rebelled against God (Isaiah 14:12–15; Ezekiel 28:16). Many angels followed Satan’s rebellion and thus became “fallen” angels, or demons (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 12:3–4). In contrast, the angels who remained faithful to the Lord are known as “holy angels” or “elect angels” (Mark 8:38; 1 Timothy 5:21).

The Greek word for “elect” found in 1 Timothy 5:21 refers to being chosen or picked. This would indicate that God chose some angels not to fall with Satan. The same word in the verse, eklekton, is used elsewhere for Christians who are elected and chosen by God in salvation (Romans 8:33; Titus 1:1). The word suggests that the elect angels, like elect people, were chosen by God and cannot lose their elect position. None of the elect angels will rebel against God or lose their chosen status, just as Christians cannot lose their salvation as God’s elect children (John 10:28; Romans 8:38–39). Secure in their standing before the Lord, elect angels cannot sin or go against the commands of God but will remain faithful to the Lord forever.

Of course, the fact that the holy angels are “elect” does not imply they are “saved” in the same way that Christians are. Both angels and Christians are chosen and elected by the Lord, but only humans can experience the new birth, forgiveness, and other aspects of salvation. The elect angels cannot experience forgiveness, since they have never sinned. Furthermore, Jesus died for humanity, not for angels. He took on human flesh and came to save mankind from their sins; His sacrifice was not to save the fallen angels (Hebrews 2:16). Angels “long to look into these things,” and are fascinated by the fact that the Son of God laid down His life to save humans (1 Peter 1:12). In this way, the election of angels is different from the election of Christians.

In addition to calling them “chosen” or “elect” angels, Scripture also designates them as good and “holy angels” (Mark 8:38). Worshipping and serving God are the main purposes of the elect angels (Revelation 7:11). Like Christians, elect angels are servants of God who seek to bring Him glory (Revelation 22:9). God uses the elect angels to carry out His will and to provide ministry to believers (Hebrews 1:14). Throughout history, elect angels have been a part of God’s plan in delivering messages (Daniel 8:16; 9:21; Luke 1:19, 26), carrying out judgment (Genesis 19:13; Psalm 78:49; Revelation 14:17–20), and providing encouragement to God’s people (Acts 27:23).

The elect angels have the special purpose of serving God and doing as He commands. The elect angels minister to believers today, and they will also play a major part in the events of the end times. The power and position of the elect angels are awe-inspiring, but the Bible teaches that Jesus’ followers are more blessed than even they, since believers “have been made complete in Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority” (Colossians 2:10, BSB).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

What is the purpose of angels?​

ANSWER

Naked cherubs, wings, halos, and cute kindergartners in the Christmas play are some of the images that come to mind when we think about angels. But God’s Word gives us an entirely different picture. Hebrews 1:7 says, “He makes his angels spirits, and his servants flames of fire.” Angels are spirits created to serve God’s purposes.

Scripture gives us only glimpses into the supernatural realm, but it is enough to learn that angels perform a variety of tasks and are used for several purposes:

1. To serve the people God saves. One purpose of angels is to minister to the elect of God: “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14). Paul experienced an angelic visitation during a storm at sea. The angel brought him comfort (Acts 27:23–24). Others who have been served by angels include Elijah (1 Kings 19:3–8) and Peter (Acts 12:6–10).

2. To deliver messages. The word angel literally means “messenger.” In the Bible, angels usually appeared as men when they delivered messages from God to people (see Genesis 18:1–3). The angel Gabriel appeared to at least three people in the Bible. He interpreted a vision for Daniel (Daniel 8:16), told Zechariah about the birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:19), and proclaimed to Mary that she would be the mother of the Messiah (Luke 1:26). Angels in the form of men also warned Lot of God’s impending judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:1).

3. To wage spiritual battle. Another purpose of angels is to fight the forces of spiritual darkness who try to thwart God’s plans (Ephesians 6:12; Jude 1:9). When an angel appeared to Daniel to deliver the interpretation of a vision, the angel stated that Michael the archangel had to help him fight his way through enemy forces (Daniel 10:10–14). The full extent of angelic warfare is not known to us, but these few glimpses are enough to suggest that a fierce cosmic battle rages just out of sight.

4. To worship God. Angels constantly surround the throne of God, worshiping and shouting His praises (Psalm 148:1–2; Isaiah 6:3, Hebrews 1:6; Revelation 5:8–13). Since angels were created to worship God, their rejection of that purpose is an unforgivable wrong. When Lucifer, a chief angel, refused to worship God and insisted that angels worship him instead, God cast him from heaven (Isaiah 14:12–18). Angels siding with Lucifer were exiled with him.

5. To serve. Angels exist to do the will of their Creator. They go where God sends them, say what He gives them to say, and minister to His children on earth (Psalm 103:20; Revelation 22:9; Hebrews 1:14). After Jesus’ forty-day temptation in the wilderness, angels came and ministered to Him (Matthew 4:11). When the righteous die, it seems that angels carry them straight to the place of God’s rest (Luke 16:22).

6. To execute judgment. Angels are not all radiance and joy. They also carry out God’s orders for destruction. The book of Revelation foretells many angelic acts that will bring about the ultimate destruction of the world (Revelation 7:1; 8—10). When Pharaoh refused to let the people of God leave Egypt, God sent an angel to strike down every firstborn son (Exodus 12:12, 23). Angels were involved in the death of Herod (Acts 12:23), the slaughter of the Assyrian army (2 Kings 19:35), and the punishment of Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 21:15).

7. To aid in the transmission of God’s Word. Hebrews 2:2, speaking of the Mosaic Law, calls it “the message spoken through angels.” Somehow, angels were involved in the process of Moses receiving the law on Sinai, revealing yet another purpose of angels.

God uses angels any way He chooses. Because we hardly know anything about a world outside our physical universe, we cannot possibly understand all the purposes angels fulfill. But Christians have the confidence that God’s holy angels stand ready to protect and deliver God’s mortal children (Psalm 91:11). While angels are created beings, as we are, and should never be worshiped, we can thank the Lord for them and the unseen ways He uses them to impact our lives.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

Do angels appear to people today?​

ANSWER

In the Bible angels appear to people in unpredictable and various ways. From a casual reading of Scripture, a person might get the idea that angelic appearances were somewhat common, but that is not the case. There is an increasing interest in angels today, and there are many reports of angelic appearances. Angels are part of almost every religion and generally seem to have the same role of messenger. In order to determine whether angels appear today, we must first get a biblical view of their ancient appearances.

The first appearance of angels in the Bible is in Genesis 3:24, when Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden. God placed cherubim to block the entrance with a flaming sword. The next angelic appearance is in Genesis 16:7, about 1,900 years later. Hagar, the Egyptian servant who bore Ishmael to Abraham, was instructed by an angel to return and submit to her mistress, Sarai. Abraham was visited by God and two angels in Genesis 18:2, when God informed him of the impending destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The same two angels visited Lot and instructed him to escape the city with his family before it was destroyed (Genesis 19:1-11). The angels in this case also displayed supernatural power by blinding the wicked men who were threatening Lot.

When Jacob saw a multitude of angels (Genesis 32:1), he immediately recognized them as the army of God. In Numbers 22:22, an angel confronted the disobedient prophet Balaam, but Balaam did not see the angel at first, although his donkey did. Mary received a visit from an angel who told her that she would be the mother of the Messiah, and Joseph was warned by an angel to take Mary and Jesus to Egypt to protect them from Herod’s edict (Matthew 2:13). When angels appear, those who see them are often struck with fear (Judges 6:22; 1 Chronicles 21:30; Matthew 28:5). Angels deliver messages from God and do His bidding, sometimes by supernatural means. In every case, the angels point people to God and give the glory to Him. Holy angels refuse to be worshiped (Revelation 22:8-9).

According to modern reports, angelic visitations come in a variety of forms. In some cases, a stranger prevents serious injury or death and then mysteriously disappears. In other cases, a winged or white-clothed being is seen momentarily and is then gone. The person who sees the angel is often left with a feeling of peace and assurance of God’s presence. This type of visitation seems to agree with the biblical pattern as seen in Acts 27:23.

Another type of visitation that is sometimes reported today is the “angel choir” type. In Luke 2:13, the shepherds were visited by a heavenly choir as they were told of the birth of Jesus. Some people have reported similar experiences in places of worship. This experience does not fit the model so well, as it typically serves no purpose other than to provide a feeling of spiritual elation. The angel choir in Luke’s Gospel was heralding some very specific news.

A third type of visitation involves only a physical feeling. Elderly people have often reported feeling as though arms or wings were wrapped around them in times of extreme loneliness. God is certainly the God of all comfort, and Scripture speaks of God covering with His wings (Psalm 91:4). Such reports may well be examples of that covering.

God is still as active in the world as He has always been, and His angels are certainly still at work. Just as angels protected God’s people in the past, we can be assured that they are guarding us today. Hebrews 13:2 says, “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” As we obey God’s commands, it is quite possible that we may encounter His angels, even if we do not realize it. In special circumstances, God allowed His people to see His unseen angels, so God’s people would be encouraged and continue in His service (2 Kings 6:16-17).

We must also heed the warnings of Scripture concerning angelic beings: there are fallen angels who work for Satan who will do anything to subvert and destroy us. Galatians 1:8 warns us to beware of any “new” gospel, even if it is delivered by an angel. Colossians 2:18 warns against the worship of angels. Every time in the Bible when men bowed down before angels, those beings firmly refused to be worshiped. Any angel who receives worship, or who does not give glory to the Lord Jesus, is an imposter. Second Corinthians 11:14-15 states that Satan and his angels disguise themselves as angels of light in order to deceive and lead astray anyone who will listen to them.

We are encouraged by the knowledge that God’s angels are at work. In special circumstances, we might even have one of those rare personal visitations. Greater than that knowledge, however, is the knowledge that Jesus Himself has said, “Surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). Jesus, who made the angels and receives their worship, has promised us His own presence in our trials.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

Do angels appear to people today? | GotQuestions.org​

22,560 views Jun 26, 2020 Are angel sightings true? Are the reports of people seeing angels in the room believable? Are angel appearances in the Bible common? Did people see angels in the Bible? If so, what do angels look like in the Bible? How are angels described in the bible? And, do angels have wings in the Bible? Do we have guardian angels? In this video, Pastor Nelson with Bible Munch answers the question, “Do angels appear to people today?”.

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[Patriot]

What is the hierarchy of angels?​

ANSWER

Some branches of Christian theology have proposed a 9-level hierarchy of angels as follows:

• Highest/First Order:
Seraphim
Cherubim
Thrones

• Middle/Second Order:
Dominions
Virtues
Powers

• Lowest/Third Order:
Principalities
Archangels
Angels

The difficulty is that the Bible identifies no such hierarchy of angels. In the Bible we see that there could be different kinds of angels, and, if there are different kinds, there might be some sort of hierarchy. If a hierarchy exists, the Bible does not tell us about it explicitly. If it were important for us to know about it, the Bible would have told us. The term angel simply means “messenger” and emphasizes the work that angels do.

Seraphim (singular seraph) is simply a word that means “fiery” or “bright.” Seraphim are mentioned as angelic beings only in Isaiah 6:1–4: “I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.’ At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke.” Since the word seraphim is simply a description, it may be that the seraphim are simply “fiery beings” that may or may not be a distinct “kind” of angel.

Cherubim (singular cherub) are mentioned numerous times in Scripture. After Adam and Eve were driven out of the Garden of Eden, cherubim were placed there to guard the entrance (Genesis 3:24). The vast majority of the instances where cherubim are mentioned are in connection with the ark of the covenant, as the likeness of two cherubim adorned the cover of the ark (Exodus 25:18 –20; 37:7 –9; 1 Samuel 4:4). David sings a song of praise to God in which he says that God “mounted the cherubim and flew; he soared on the wings of the wind” (2 Samuel 22:11). When Ezekiel sees the glory of God leaving the temple, he also sees cherubim carrying the throne of God (Ezekiel 10). In verse 14, the cherubim are described as having four faces, those of a cherub, a human being, a lion, and an eagle. However, since angels are essentially spirit beings, it may be that they simply appeared to Ezekiel in this form for that particular revelatory vision.

There is only one archangel named in Scripture: Michael. He is mentioned in Jude 1:9. The voice of the archangel is heard in 1 Thessalonians 4:16, with no mention of his name. Revelation 12:7 describes war between Michael and his angels and the devil and angels. In Daniel 10:13, 21 and 12:1, Michael is described as an angelic prince. Michael’s being the leader of the angels would fit with both the title archangel and the role he plays. Archangel may be a role rather than a distinct kind of angel.

Another individual angel, Gabriel, is also named in Scripture. Gabriel delivered messages regarding the birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:19) and Jesus (Luke 1:26). In speaking to John’s father, he describes himself as one who stands in the presence of God. There is no mention of what “kind” of angel Gabriel may be. He also delivered messages to Daniel in answer to his prayer (Daniel 8:16; 9:21). Daniel describes him as a man, which means that Gabriel appeared in human form. Again, as angels are essentially spirit beings, they do not have physical bodies, but it seems they may appear in various forms.

Michael and Gabriel are the only angels mentioned by name, but we know there are untold myriads of angels who serve God. It should be noted that, although angels have greater power and glory than human beings, it is human beings who are created in God’s image, and it is human beings, not angels, who will reign with Christ (Hebrews 2:5). It is human beings, not angels, who have been redeemed by the blood of Christ (Hebrews 2:16). Angels are servants of God who minister to believers (Hebrews 1:4). From one perspective, angels are certainly greater than people, yet, from another perspective, human beings occupy the primary place in God’s created order, and angels are to some extent excluded. They do not understand redemption in the way that God’s children understand it (1 Peter 1:2).

The term guardian angel is never mentioned in Scripture, although this concept is commonly assumed. Perhaps it is based on Matthew 18:10, “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.”

Finally, there are fallen angels. Jude 1:6 clearly mentions them: “And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their proper dwelling—these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day”; as does Revelation 12:7–9: “Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.”

In summary, speculation abounds, but there is no elaborate hierarchy of angels revealed in Scripture. Seraphim and cherubim are mentioned in close connection with the throne and glory of God. Since seraph simply means “fiery,” it may be a description of an angel rather than a separate kind. The cherubim and seraphim are generally described as other-worldly creatures. Michael is the archangel, which would indicate that he has a distinct role, but not necessarily that he is a distinct kind of angel. Gabriel is an important messenger for God. When Gabriel appears, he is normally identified as being a “man,” as are other angels when they appear to humans. Angels do an important work, but we are never encouraged to fixate on them, and, of course, we are forbidden from worshiping them (Colossians 2:18). Overcome by the glory of his visions, John records, “At this I fell at [the angel’s] feet to worship him. But he said to me, ‘Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers and sisters who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God!’” (Revelation 19:10). Angels simply serve in the background and bring glory to God.

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Angels: Elect & Evil by C. Fred Dickason

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[Patriot]

Can you lose the Holy Spirit?​

ANSWER

The Holy Spirit is the third Person in the triune Godhead. The Holy Spirit indwells believers at the moment of salvation. We know from 1 Corinthians 3:16 and 6:19–20 that the bodies of Christians are the Spirit’s temple. The teaching of the New Testament is that the Holy Spirit’s indwelling is permanent. We cannot lose the Holy Spirit.

The Old Testament relates occasions in which the Spirit left someone, such as King Saul (1 Samuel 16:14) or Samson (Judges 16:20). However, in those days the Holy Spirit worked differently than He does since the time Jesus rose from the dead. In the Old Testament, the Spirit is never said to “indwell” anyone; rather, He “came upon” people for a time to accomplish specific purposes (Judges 3:10; 1 Chronicles 12:18). The Holy Spirit inspired the prophets to proclaim truth to the people (Ezekiel 11:1–2). He instructed the leaders of Israel (1 Samuel 16:13). He inspired the writing of Scripture (2 Peter 1:21). But He did not indwell those people as He now does with believers in Christ.

Before Christ’s finished work and ascension, the Holy Spirit came and went, but He no longer works that way. He does not come and go in the lives of believers today. Just before His arrest, Jesus promised His disciples that He would send the Holy Spirit, who “lives with you and will be in you” (John 14:17). The Amplified Bible emphasizes the permanency of the Spirit’s presence: “He lives with you [constantly] and will be in you.”

Acts 2 describes the transition from the Old Testament economy to the New as it pertains to the Holy Spirit. The disciples were gathered for prayer, waiting for the promise of the Father, in obedience to Jesus (John 14:26; Acts 1:4, 8). As they prayed, the Holy Spirit fell upon them all and filled them (verse 3–4). Jesus’ promise was fulfilled, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit came upon all who had trusted in Christ. That outpouring resulted in courage in the face of opposition, love for all humanity, and supernatural gifts and abilities to further the gospel (1 Corinthians 12:4; Hebrews 2:4).

Salvation is impossible without the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13). Jesus explained this to Nicodemus in John 3:1–21. Nicodemus, a leader of the Jewish religion, wanted to know what laws he could keep or additional actions he could perform that would guarantee eternal life. Jesus responded that there was nothing Nicodemus could do and that salvation is a work of the Holy Spirit. Without the Holy Spirit’s work in a repentant heart, no one can be born again, regardless of how many “sinner’s prayers” he prays or Christian actions he performs. It is the Holy Spirit who regenerates and renews a heart (Titus 3:5).

An issue related to losing the Holy Spirit is eternal security. There is debate among Christians about whether or not someone can lose his or her salvation. To lose salvation would be to lose the Holy Spirit who provides it. In fact, Scripture says that the Holy Spirit “seals” our salvation until we experience its completion in the presence of God (Ephesians 1:13; 4:30). For the Holy Spirit to vacate a heart that He had promised to seal would make Him unfaithful. One of the Holy Spirit’s tasks, after moving into a believing heart, is transforming that person into the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 8:29), and we have the promise that “he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion” (Philippians 1:6). We do not believe the Spirit will undo His work of regeneration, give up on His transformative work, or redefine eternal life to mean “temporary life.”

Since we did not “find” the Holy Spirit, it is doubtful that we can “lose” Him. Some take issue with the word lose and say that, while a Christian cannot lose the Holy Spirit, he or she can forfeit the gifts and salvation He brings by a willful renouncement of Him. However, Ephesians 1:13 says, “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.” Can a believer truly break the seal placed on him by God? The Holy Spirit is the mark of a true believer; therefore, to lose Him would be to lose any hope of salvation in the future.

Ephesians 4:30 warns us not to “grieve the Holy Spirit.” And 1 Thessalonians 5:19 says that we can “quench the Spirit.” These passages do not imply that the Holy Spirit has left us, only that He is sorrowful because of our sinful actions. The grieving and quenching of the Spirit hinders our fellowship with Him but does not nullify our salvation, in much the same way that a rebellious child may lose the fellowship of a parent but is not kicked out of the family.

What causes confusion on this issue is that we cannot know whether someone else has truly been born of the Spirit or whether he is the “shallow soil” as Jesus described in Luke 8:1–15. Some people seem excited to follow Jesus and may exhibit what appear to be supernatural gifts, but they were never truly born again. Jesus addresses those people with a stern warning in Matthew 7:21–23. Many people profess to have the Holy Spirit but eventually prove that they were imposters when their lives turn away from following Him (see Romans 8:14). Such people did not lose the Holy Spirit; He was never theirs at all (1 John 2:19).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

The Holy Spirit by Charles Ryrie

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[Patriot]

Can you lose the Holy Spirit? | GotQuestions.org​

24,051 views Dec 28, 2021

Got Questions Ministries

Is it possible to lose the Holy Spirit? Can one, be filled with the Spirit then emptied? Is that what happens when we grieve the Holy Spirit or quench the Spirit? Do we lose the Spirit? If so, knowing how to be filled with the Holy Spirit is of great importance! The doctrine of eternal security ( once saved always saved ) is also on the line. For example, can you lose your salvation? In this video, Pastor Nelson with Bible Munch answers the question, “Can you lose the Holy Spirit?”

* Source Article: https://www.gotquestions.org/lose-the...

* Check out, Bible Munch! @Bible Munch https://www.youtube.com/BibleMunch

​

 

[Patriot]

What is Cao Dai?​

ANSWER

Cao Dai, also called Caodaism, is a syncretic religion native to Vietnam. Cao Dai means “High Tower” or “High Palace.” The term can refer to the dwelling place of the “Supreme Being” or to “God” himself. Cao Dai is the third largest religion in Vietnam today, with about 6 to 8 million followers.

Cao Dai was founded by a man named Van Chieu, who claimed to have received revelations in 1919 while in a séance. The spirit that communicated with Van Chieu called itself “Duc Cao Dai,” and Van Chieu believed he was in direct communication with God. Van Chieu later shared what he learned through spiritism and thus became the prophet of this new religion. Caodaism was formally established in 1926.

Caodaism’s belief system is a combination of Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, Roman Catholicism, and other religions. Cao Dai adherents believe in karma and reincarnation, follow the ethical principles of Confucianism, and operate under a structure identical to Roman Catholicism, with the head of Cao Dai acting like a pope.

Followers of Cao Dai worship God the Father, the Holy Mother, and other beings they consider divine, including Jesus Christ, Confucius, Buddha, and Khuong Thai Cong. Ancestors are venerated, and saints such as Victor Hugo, Joan of Arc, Pericles, and Muhammad are honored.

Being an amalgamation of many different religions, Cao Dai does not teach the truth. According to the official Cao Dai website, the aim of the religion is “to unite all of humanity through a common vision of the Supreme Being, whatever our minor differences, in order to promote peace and understanding throughout the world . . . to create a more tolerant world, where all can see each other as sisters and brothers from a common divine source reaching out to a common divine destiny realizing peace within and without.”

The Bible teaches that there is only one source of Truth. Jesus Christ said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me” (John 14:6). Truth, by nature, excludes falsehood. Any teaching that contradicts God’s Word, the Bible, is actually contradicting God Himself. Jesus Christ is the only Savior, and He is infinitely high above all the “saints” and “divine beings” venerated by Cao Dai (Acts 4:12).

Cao Dai does not teach the true gospel, for there is no other gospel but the message preached by Christ and His apostles. The true gospel is that salvation is by grace alone through faith in Christ alone. Caodaism teaches that ceremony, diet, and good works are the way to be one with the “supreme being.” The Bible teaches that no one is righteous, not even one (Romans 3:10) and that no amount of good works can atone for our sin. The only way that man can be accepted by God is by placing his trust in the finished work of Christ on the cross (Romans 10:9–10; John 1:12).

FOR FURTHER STUDY​

Encountering World Religions by Irving Hexham

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