This prophetic voice was heard especially from black clergy, but white clergy and white believers also responded to the call. Religion and politics have been locked in relationship since the dawn of humanity. Working together in a positive way, the two forces have created community and fostered the common good. With the blessing of the gods, political leaders could rule without brute force. With the help of political leaders, great temples and works of art were created that enriched the religious and cultural life of the community.
Conflict between the religious and political leaders could also be healthy. Before there were elections, independent courts and the rule of law, religion often provided the only check on political power. There was a higher law than the law of the king, and the prophet could challenge the despot with the voice of God.
On the other hand, rulers sometimes became the only ones powerful enough to reform religious institutions that had become corrupt. That means these prophets are wholly unworthy to serve. A lightning bolt or two might instill some much-needed discipline. Well, that consequence is biblical, and stoning was the practice during that time.
On the other hand, our government is not a theocracy, and Christ taught only the sinless should cast the first stone. The second result of feeding on false teaching is that those who do will forget the name of the LORD. The hearts of the false prophets ran from God, but their intentions could not escape His presence. The prophets used the name LORD along with their dreams, teaching that Judah could continue to walk after other gods without facing destruction.
The LORD had said the opposite. Through Jeremiah, He warned the people that they would face judgment because they had forgotten Him and trusted in falsehood Just as God allowed the destruction of the place of His dwelling presence at Shiloh8, He would allow the destruction of the temple God expects people to walk a certain way because of Who He is.
The practice of idolatry made the One Who fills the heavens and the earth seem like a powerless god like Baal. Once again they did the same thing that their fathers had done and forgot the LORD. He is not just another name. The third result of feeding on false teaching is a departure from the LORD. God compared His Word to the word of the false prophets because the false word had been mixed with the truth of His Word. From Age to Age is available in the Ligonier store.
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