I am sure that many people who would never consider even reading an article dealing with spiritual matters would have read at least this far. While it is true we have perverts in our neighborhoods and communities, we do not realize how common it is for many people.
The word "pervert" is defined this way: "To turn from its right purpose, use, or meaning. To alter for the worse or for gain. To turn away, avert, divert." It's synonyms are: "Corrupt, distort, falsify, deception, garble, misquote, misrepresent, misstate, stretch, twist."
We usually use the word “pervert” in speaking of people who have turned away from God’s proper use of sex. Hebrews 13:4 speaks of the marriage bed to be honored and undefiled.
Anything that is changed in any way is to be considered a perversion of the original. Sometimes change is good, because we are always looking for improvement in ourselves or in the products we buy. But when we consider the laws of God, change what God gives us in the Bible always results in that which is evil in the sight of God. The only change God wants is for us to turn from our evil ways and start serving Him.
Many people pervert the gospel of Christ to fit their own perceptions and their own agenda. The apostle Paul wrote that the “gospel is the power of God unto salvation” (Romans 1:16) Even in the early days of the church some were twisting the scriptures for their own gain. Paul addresses these people in Galatians 1:6-7 and 2 Timothy 4:3-4.
Many church leaders have found that the gospel of Christ in the original form does not appeal to many people. Therefore in order to be accepted by more people, preachers alter the word of God to mean things it did not originally intend.
The gospel in its purest form requires much from those who would believe and follow Jesus. Yet preachers find it difficult to tell people they must actually submit and obey Jesus, because people want to do what they want to do, not what Jesus wants them to do. So that they might have more followers, preachers tell people falsehoods and distortions so that they can keep an audience.
Many people do not want to endure the hardship that a Christian is supposed to endure, so they accept a perverted gospel that does not require much on their part. But if they want to be saved, these perverted gospels will not do that. Only the gospel that God has given us and is presented in its purest form from the Bible can save us. Salvation comes from God’s gospel, and not mans. Please take the time to learn the difference. Compare God’s word with what you are taught. If you are being taught things not found in the Bible, you need to get away from that group, because the truth is that even the truth will not provoke them to change to be in conformity with God’s word.
So, the answer to the question is this. Not only are the ones who change the gospel are to be considered as perverts, so are the ones who follow and accept these perversions. God will not accept those who pervert His gospel or His message.
We know that God is not willing that any perish (2 Peter 3:9). You must believe that Jesus is the Son of God and died on the cross for your sins. (Acts 8:37). You must repent of your sins (Luke 13:3), you must confess Jesus as Lord (Matthew 10:32) and you must be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; 22:16). Then you must remain faithful and continue learning how to serve God(2 Peter 3:18). Let us help you on your spiritual journey. May God bless you in your study of His word.
Please visit us at the Eastside church of Christ at the corner of Strawn Rd and Young St in Ranger. We meet for worship on Sunday at 10:45 and 5:00. We meet for bible class and prayer at 9:45 Sunday and 7:00 Wednesday.