There is a right and a wrong way.

I recently made a simple assertion on Facebook that movements that multiply disciples and churches place themselves under the authority of God’s Word. Whereas religious institutions in the West have placed themselves above the Scriptures and are decaying.

Some reactions on social media were instructive.

One commented, “I don’t find this kind of 'either/or' seeing as helpful. It misses the many and varied nuances of how God’s people read Scripture. It creates an artificial world of those who are right and those who are wrong and teaches those who agree with the author to act as judge between the two.”

In contrast, Jesus placed his life and ministry under the authority of God’s living Word—he was the Son who expressed his love in complete obedience. He came to fulfill the Scriptures, not overturn them.

Another critic alleged “White Christian Nationalists” with a high view of Scripture were sweeping across America, burning crosses in people’s yards.

Even if that were true, such people have nothing to do with the movements of disciples and churches around the world made up of Iranians, Indonesians, Ghanians, and prisoners in maximum security.

A high view of Scripture is no guarantee of a movement of God, but it is a prerequisite. A high view of Scripture must be met with disciples who gather around the Scriptures and learn to love and obey their Lord together, including the command to multiply disciples and churches. Everywhere.

Meanwhile in the West, when the culture shifts in matters regarding sex and marriage, church leaders remain silent in fear or even deny the teaching of Scripture.

Why do you call me, “Lord, Lord,” and do not do what I say? Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭46‬