"The mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but in finding something to live for."
Dostoevsky
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As a Christian, I often wrestle with the restrictive nature of religious systems that elevate mere men to positions resembling divine authority. These systems, while professing divine inspiration, disappointingly morph over time—doctrines evolve, policies shift, and the rules change. For a faith rooted in eternal truths, this inconsistency is deeply unsettling.
The teachings of Jesus cut through the cacophony of human constructs with stark clarity. Ephesians 2:18 resonates deeply, stating, “For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.” This access is not a privilege men can grant, or a conditional favour bestowed by religious institutions. It’s a profound, unchangeable truth: our direct connection to God, unmediated by any earthly institution.
I converse with God as Jesus did—directly and intimately calling Him "Father." This pure relationship is the cornerstone of my faith, and yet, it clashes with Christian groups that, despite their claims of divine guidance, continually revise their doctrines. How can one be "God-inspired" if today's proclaimed truths differ from yesterdays? This inconsistency feels more like human error than divine guidance.
Many religious organizations are structured like a pyramid with power at the top, where men demand adherence to their authority. They position themselves as the ultimate interpreters of God’s will, a stance that, to me, undermines Christ’s message. This structure coerces conformity, stifling personal communion with God.
Particularly heart-wrenching is the practice of disfellowshipping, excommunication, or shunning—punitive measures for independent worship. Such actions, justified as righteous, have torn apart individuals and families who dare to worship God on their own terms, yet share foundational beliefs. It deeply pains me to see such divisive acts conducted in the name of righteousness.
These practices remind me of the Pharisees and religious leaders in Jesus' time, who burdened people with rules that contradicted God's fundamental command: love. Jesus challenged them, not for their faith, but for their misrepresentation of what it means to follow God. I see a reflection of this in modern religious practices that prioritize organizational image over believers' welfare and unity.
Moreover, some institutions, in their quest for self-preservation, have concealed grievous sins, including abuses against the vulnerable, prioritizing their reputation over the divine mandate to protect and love. This is starkly contrary to Christ's teachings.
Yet, my heart harbours no anger or bitterness towards those ensnared by such paths. I understand the longing for belonging, certainty, and spiritual direction. It is not my place to judge those who choose these paths. Instead, my call is for compassion and kindness, recognizing the sincerity of many who navigate these systems. They are my brothers and sisters in Christ, and I yearn for deeper understanding and unity among us.
But the voice within me advocating for a different path—one of liberty in Christ, clinging to the immutable truth of His love and sacrifice, and walking in the Spirit without earthly go-betweens—cannot be silenced.
Ultimately, I cling to a simple yet profound reality: Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. No institution, prophet, or leader can usurp His role. Through Him, I gain direct access to the Father, and in this connection, I find peace.