Doctrine - 5th Tenet

The last tenet, it themes

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet “…Unlike the preceding (four) tenets, the last tenet of faith does not relate to a specific theme but addresses three general themes about our:

- Membership in the body of Jesus Christ;

- Love for God and our neighbour; &

- Submission to authority…”

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme “…We believe “that our souls are sanctified and clothed in righteousness in the body of Jesus Christ, in preparation for our membership of the soul-bride”. This theme essentially relates to our membership of the body of Jesus Christ, the Church. [ROM 12:1-5] It is a good time to reflect on our own lives in the light of [1 JOH 1:5-10]…”

To the author of this tenet:

We are sanctified through (not in) the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all (Hebrews 10:10). This verse is not referring to some church, but to the body of Jesus (Matthew 27:58, Mark 15:43, Luke 23:52, John 19:38-40, John 20:12).

The church is the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27-30, Ephesians 4:11-16) because Christ is the head of the church (Ephesians 5:23, Colossians 1:18). Similarly the wife is the body of her husband because the husband loves and cares for his wife, and would give his life for her (Ephesians 5:22-33).

Romans 12:1-5 is an appeal to dedicate our bodies as holy living sacrifices, as a reasonable service to God and as members in the church.

1 John 1:5-10 is about walking in the light and the blood of Jesus Christ that cleanses us from sin.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Soul “…This tenet states that our “souls” are sanctified and clothed. The soul is transformed by the rebirth and is created to God’s image and exists forever - is everlasting. Our purpose in the Church is to prepare the soul to spend the everlasting life with God – salvation. [GEN 1:26 & I PET 1:9]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light, and his ministers are transformed as ministers of righteousness whose end will be according to their works (2 Corinthians 11:14-15). You can speak with the tongues of angels and understand all mysteries, but without charity you are nothing (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). Pure religion before God is not some church, but to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction and to keep ourselves unspotted from the world (James 1:26-27).

The gospel of Christ is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes (Romans 1:16), with the heart man believes unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation (Romans 10:10). Salvation is obtained by our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:9) and it is the holy scriptures, not some spoken words of some person who believes they’re God’s mouthpiece, which are able to make us wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 3:15).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: Body “…The tenet further refers to the body of Jesus Christ. A “body” is a collection of members, put together in an orderly fashion with each member serving a particular purpose. We believe that the Church of which we are members, is the body of Jesus Christ. [EPH 4:15-16; 5:30]…”

To the author of this tenet:

The church is the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27-30, Ephesians 4:11-16) because Christ is the head of the church (Ephesians 5:23, Colossians 1:18). Similarly the wife is the body of her husband because the husband loves and cares for his wife, and would give his life for her (Ephesians 5:22-33). Read all the verses!

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: Jesus Christ. “…The “Jesus Christ” referred to in this tenet, does not only refer to the Son of God in the time of the Bible, but rather relates to the Jesus Christ that lives today in the body of the Church of which we are members. [I COR 12:12-28; ROM 12:4-8]…”

To the author of this tenet:

There is only one Son of God and He is the one and only Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 2:5-6, Hebrews 13:8). This tenet is confusing Jesus Christ with the “body of the Church”.

1 Corinthians 12:29-39 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Sanctified “…To clean and to remove dirt or filth. Cleaning is not a spontaneous occurrence, but requires work and effort and it is done for specific reasons – to remove dirt that contains germs and other negative elements that might cause disease; and to make something presentable [EZE 36:24-27]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Yes, cleaning from our point of view “requires work and effort”, but when you read the prophecy in Ezekiel 36:25 it says “Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean”. This cleansing process is unlike any work and effort done by a person; if it was then we could save a lot on soap, water and elbow grease.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: Sanctified “…Similar to cleaning one’s natural body, so too does the soul require cleansing as the first step to prepare it for entry into the Church and membership of the body of Jesus Christ. Cleansing of the soul is done through the word (water) of Godly teaching.

[EPH 5:26-30]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Those verses are not referring to the cleaning of souls outside the church so they can enter the church. Those verses are referring to the church being presented to Christ as a glorious church, sanctified and cleansed with the washing of water by the word.

Ephesians 5:25-32 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

The word of truth is the gospel of our salvation (Ephesians 1:13).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: Clothe “…To clothe is to cover something with cloth / garment(s). Like cleaning, clothing is not spontaneous but also requires work / effort and it is done for specific reasons – to protect one from the external elements that might cause harm; and to make oneself presentable. [EPH 6:10-17]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Those verses are not referring to clothing; those verses are referring to the whole armour of God.

Ephesians 6:10-17 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth,

and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

And take the helmet of salvation,

and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

There’s a difference in function between the whole armor of God and clothing, see if you can spot the differences:

• Those that are victorious will be clothed in white (Revelation 3:5)
• The white clothing hides the shame of our nakedness (Revelation 3:18)
• The twenty four elders seated around the throne are clothed in white (Revelation 4:4)
• The multitudes standing before the throne and the Lamb are clothed in white (Revelation 7:9)
• The armies in heaven are clothed in linen that is white and clean (Revelation 19:14)

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: Clothe “…Similar to clothing one’s natural body, so too does the soul require clothing in preparation for entry into the Church and membership of the body of Jesus Christ. Clothing of the soul is done through doing the good deeds of God. [REV 19:7-8]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Those verses are not referring to clothing of the soul before entry into the church; those verses are referring to the marriage supper of the Lamb.

Revelation 19:6-10 And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God. And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

Jesus’ wife (Ephesians 5:25-32) is clothed in the righteousness of saints. Righteousness is the adherence to moral principles. The righteousness of God is by faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:22).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: In Christ Jesus “…The processes of cleansing (with the water of the word) and clothing (doing the good deeds) – changing our lives to bear the fruits of God’s spirit – are only possible in Jesus Christ, the Church. [JOH 15:5]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Jesus Christ is the true vine, not the church! The church is not Jesus Christ either!

John 15:1-7 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

Clothing isn’t good deeds and our righteousnesses are as filthy rags and not to be relied upon (Isaiah 64:6, Ezekiel 33:12-13). Genuine righteousness comes through faith in Christ (Philippians 3:9).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: Preparation “…To be ready to do or face-up to something in the future – having the necessary means in one’s possession or at one’s disposal to meet a future challenge that is in store for us. [II COR 11:1-2]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Those verses refer to Paul and the false apostles.

2 Corinthians 11:1-4 Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me. For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached,

or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received,

or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.

Christ is the one husband (head) of the church. False apostles preach another Jesus, another spirit and another gospel.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: Bride “…A woman, about to be married. A bride is always a beautiful sight, filled with good attributes and ready to commit to a relationship of unity with her husband (the groom). [MAT 25:1-13]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Those verses refer to the parable of the ten virgins. This parable was spoken by Jesus when He was on the mount of Olives.

Matthew 25:1-13 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

Jesus is the Bridegroom (Matthew 9:14-15, Mark 2:18-20, Luke 5:33-35, John 3:27-29, Ephesians 5:23-32) and the church is His bridesmaid also known as the body of Christ (Romans 12:5, 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Ephesians 4:11-13). False apostles and false prophets cannot forge or counterfeit the coming of the Son of man, the only way they can try is by attempting to deceive people with false interpretations. Jesus warns us not to follow them because they will say “Lo here” and then try convincing people that they (false prophets and false churches) are Christ (Matthew 24:23-28).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: Soul-bride “…The souls of the members of the Church comprise this body of the spiritual bride – the soul-bride / bride of souls – about to marry Jesus Christ through a covenant of loyalty and commitment to a common goal. [REV 21:1-2 & PRO 31:10 - 31]…”

To the author of this tenet:

The verses in Revelation are referring to the new heaven and new earth, and the new Jerusalem coming down from God out of heaven.

Regarding the church, Jesus is the Bridegroom (Matthew 9:14-15, Mark 2:18-20, Luke 5:33-35, John 3:27-29, Ephesians 5:23-32) and the church is His bridesmaid also known as the body of Christ (Romans 12:5, 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Ephesians 4:11-13).

The verses in Proverbs are referring to a virtuous wife that fears the LORD. You’ll notice that she is described in accordance to the customs of the East.

• The virtuous woman seeks wool and flax (Proverbs 31:13)
• The virtuous woman brings her food from afar (Proverbs 31:14)
• The virtuous woman’s household is clothed in scarlet (Proverbs 31:21)
• The virtuous woman is dressed in purple silk (Proverbs 31:22)

OAC Confession of Faith: Theme: Bride - Qualities “…In anticipation of her wedding, a bride is immaculately prepared to enhance her positive attributes – cleansing and beautification are parts of this preparatory process. Similarly the soul-bride shall be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord etc. [ISA 62:1-8]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Those verses are prophecies referring to Zion’s coming salvation.

Isaiah 62:1-12 For Zion's sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until the righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth.

And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory:

and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the LORD shall name.

Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the LORD,

and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.

Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken;

neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate:

but thou shalt be called Hephzibah, and thy land Beulah:

for the LORD delighteth in thee, and thy land shall be married.

For as a young man marrieth a virgin, so shall thy sons marry thee:

and as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee.

I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night:

ye that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence, And give him no rest, till he establish, and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth.

The LORD hath sworn by his right hand, and by the arm of his strength, Surely I will no more give thy corn to be meat for thine enemies;

and the sons of the stranger shall not drink thy wine, for the which thou hast laboured:

But they that have gathered it shall eat it, and praise the LORD;

and they that have brought it together shall drink it in the courts of my holiness.

Go through, go through the gates;

prepare ye the way of the people;

cast up, cast up the highway;

gather out the stones;

lift up a standard for the people.

Behold, the LORD hath proclaimed unto the end of the world, Say ye to the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy salvation cometh;

behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him.

And they shall call them, The holy people, The redeemed of the LORD:

and thou shalt be called, Sought out, A city not forsaken.

New Jerusalem is the holy city of God which comes down out of heaven prepared as a bride adorned for her husband (Revelation 3:12, Revelation 21:2). Only they which are written in the Lamb's book of life shall be able to enter this city (Revelation 21:25-27).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: Bride - Qualities “…In addition to being cleansed before the wedding, a bride is clothed with pure, white linen, the deeds of righteousness and the garments of salvation. [ISA 61:10-11]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Jesus is the true Bridegroom of the soul, He clothes me with the garments of salvation and covers me with the robe of righteousness.

Isaiah 61:8-11 For I the LORD love judgment, I hate robbery for burnt offering;

and I will direct their work in truth, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them. And their seed shall be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people:

all that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the seed which the LORD hath blessed. I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God;

for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation,

he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness,

as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments,

and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.

For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth;

so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: First Theme: Unity “…The purpose of the bride going through a process of preparation is to be presented to her husband. At this stage the bride and groom make a covenant to each other. A similar unity is established between the soul-bride and Jesus Christ, the Church. [EPH 5:26-33]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Either you’re just plain blind or you’re deliberately twisting Scripture to suit your doctrine! The “soul-bride” is the church, Jesus Christ is the Bridegroom! I see you conveniently left out the preceding verses (Ephesians 5:22-25)!

Ephesians 5:22-33 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.

For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church:

and he is the saviour of the body.

Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,

That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing;

but that it should be holy and without blemish.

So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh;

but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:

For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.

For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.

This is a great mystery:

but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself;

and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme “…We believe “that as children of God we must love Him above all, serve Him in submissiveness, honour the brotherhood and love our neighbour as ourselves”. This theme essentially relates to our love for God and our neighbour. [LUK 10:27]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Allow me to contribute more verses so you can understand the context.

Matthew 22:36-40 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?

Jesus said unto him,

Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart,

and with all thy soul,

and with all thy mind.

This is the first and great commandment.

And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

Mark 12:28-34 And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all?

And Jesus answered him,

The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:

And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart,

and with all thy soul,

and with all thy mind,

and with all thy strength:

this is the first commandment.

And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

There is none other commandment greater than these.

And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth:

for there is one God;

and there is none other but he:

And to love him with all the heart,

and with all the understanding,

and with all the soul,

and with all the strength,

and to love his neighbour as himself,

is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.

And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.

Luke 10:25-27 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?

And he answering said,

Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart,

and with all thy soul,

and with all thy strength,

and with all thy mind;

and thy neighbour as thyself.

And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right:

this do, and thou shalt live.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Love “…To respect and have (good) fear not to do anything to disappoint God our Father; to always be obedient to His word that comes to us through His servants and to do His good will. [I JOH 5:2-3]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Allow me to contribute more verses so you can understand the context.

1 John 5:1-5 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God:

and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.

By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.

For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments:

and his commandments are not grievous.

For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world:

and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

Do you believe that Jesus is the Christ born of God? Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God?

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: “Above All” “…The most important or first thing in my mind. Nothing must be more important than to be obedient to God’s word and to do His good will. Nothing should prevent me from being obedient to His word and to do His will. [DEU 6:4-5]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Allow me to contribute more verses so you can understand the context.

Deuteronomy 6:4-9 Hear, O Israel:

The LORD our God is one LORD:

And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart,

and with all thy soul,

and with all thy might.

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:

And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.

And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

There is only one God and Father who is above all.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Serve Him in Submissiveness “…To display this love for God (i.e. to be obedient to His words and to do His good will) without questioning the word of instruction that comes to us through His servants. [HEB 13:7]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Allow me to contribute more verses so you can understand the context.

Hebrews 13:5-9 Let your conversation be without covetousness;

and be content with such things as ye have:

for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God:

whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.

Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace;

not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: “…We are God’s children because we heard His call, promised to serve Him and became members of the Church. He is our Father and we are expected to do everything in our power to be obedient to His words that come through His servants and to do His good will; God above all. [DEU 4:5-9 & 39]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Slowly now, this is how cults are formed. Blind obedience to “His words that come through His servants” is a cult practice that places more emphasis on the “servant” than on God. You’re using the obedience that Moses commanded from Israel as a proof text for your doctrine. Under the old covenant, Israel led by Moses had the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones (2 Corinthians 3:1-18). Jeremiah prophesied of a new covenant that would be made with the house of Israel and the house of Judah (Jeremiah 31:31-34). Jesus is the High Priest and mediator of the new covenant which is a better covenant than the first (Hebrews 8:1-13, Hebrews 12:22-24). The canon is complete, we cannot add to the Bible (Deuteronomy 4:2, Deuteronomy 12:32, Proverbs 30:5-6, Revelation 22:18-19). Therefore any spoken “words that come through His servants” must align with scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Honour. “…To recognise and have respect for something or someone. Just as we are expected to honour God the Father, so too must we honour His Son, Jesus Christ the Church. [MAL 1:6 & JOH 5:23]…”

To the author of this tenet:

His Son is NOT the church! His Son is Jesus the Christ (Messiah).

Matthew 27:54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.

John 20:31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

Acts 8:34-37 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Acts 9:19-20 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

Romans 1:3-4 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:

Ephesians 5:23-25 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.

Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

Nowhere in the Bible does it say we must honor a church masquerading as His Son, Jesus Christ. The church of Jesus Christ is subject unto Christ and Christ gave His life for the church.

Besides, the OAC was first registered in South Africa as “a church” by Carl George Klibbe after 1926.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Brotherhood “…The obedient children of God that are grouped together in an orderly structure as brothers (and sisters) in the Church. [I PET 2:17]. Comrades in arms against evil – fighting in unity by being active members in God’s army. [HEB 13:1]…”

To the author of this tenet:

The verse in 1 Peter 2:17 is referring to honor, love and fearing God. Brotherhood refers to the Christian fraternity. There’s no mention of orderly groups being obedient to their cult leader. When you read that verse in context with the other verses (1 Peter 2:13-25), it’s about being respectful to the government and living an exemplary life by following the steps of Christ. He is the only Shepherd and Bishop of our souls.

The verse in Hebrews 13:1 is referring to the continuance of brotherly love, there’s no mention of comrades in arms or orderly groups.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Summary (thus far) “…To “honour the brotherhood” is to recognise and have respect for the brotherhood of the Church; for both their person and office in the Church (as shepherds and teachers) and to regard them as God’s servants and children through whom He speaks and makes His will known unto us. [PSA 133:1-3]…”

To the author of this tenet:

I don’t think you read the verse you quoted (from your previous statement) properly; here it is for your perusal:

1 Peter 2:17 Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

It doesn’t say “honour the brotherhood”, it says Love the brotherhood. There’s a difference. To honor all men means you show respect to men when you communicate with them. It doesn’t necessarily mean you respect their opinions if they disagree with you. To love the brotherhood means to love the Christian fraternity of which Christ is the Head. Nowhere does the Bible say you must respect an office or a title in a church. It is God that works the manifestation of the Spirit in every man and the manifestation is not a title (1 Corinthians 12:6-7). You don’t need to carry the title or “office” of messenger to be a messenger. It is the Spirit that divides to every man severally as he will (1 Corinthians 12:11). You’re trying to bring honor to the wrong entity.

1 Corinthians 12:29-30 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?

The verse in Psalms 133:1 refers to the pleasantness of brethren dwelling together in unity.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Neighbour “…Someone that lives a similar life to mine or crosses my path from time to time. Our neighbours in the Church are those people that, like us, hear and do the will of God. [LUK 10:29–37]. Together we form the brotherhood in Christ…”

To the author of this tenet:

Those verses are not referring to a brotherhood of neighbors living similar lifestyles in the same church. It’s the parable of the good Samaritan as told by Jesus when a certain lawyer wanted to know who his neighbor was (Leviticus 19:18, Luke 10:25-29).

• The Samaritans were foreigners that intermarried with Israelites in Samaria (2 Kings 17:24-41).
• The Jews had no dealings with the Samaritans (John 4:9).
• The Samaritans worshipped in mount Gerizim while the Jews worshipped in Jerusalem (John 4:20).

In the parable a certain man was robbed and wounded on his way from Jerusalem to Jericho. The thieves left him for dead (Luke 10:30).

• A priest came by, one would expect him to know God’s law of love and show compassion, but he just walked on by (Luke 10:31).
• Then a Levite came by, one would expect him to know God’s law of love and show compassion, but he also just walked on by (Luke 10:32).
• Then the Samaritan comes along and goes above and beyond what was expected of him (Luke 10:33-35).

Of the three, it was the Samaritan that had compassion on the wounded man. He saw a need in a fellow human being and by his compassion, became that man’s neighbor (Luke 10:36-37). The question you should therefore ask yourself is not “who is my neighbor?” but rather “to whom can I be a neighbor?” It is not what you receive, but what you give irrespective of race, creed or nation. Love is the fulfilling of the law (Romans 13:10).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Neighbour “…Our neighbour is not only the person that presently hear and do God’s will with us, but also those that used to do His will (who have left His ways and need to be recovered) and those that are still to hear His will to start doing it (those who are still to receive this gospel). [JOH 10:16 & MAT 9:37-38]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Did you understand the parable of the good Samaritan and who your neighbor is (Luke 10:25-37)?

Only Jesus is the good shepherd, He gave His life for the sheep (John 10:11-18, Hebrews 13:20-21, 1 Peter 2:21-25, 1 Peter 5:1-4). His sheep know His voice and He will bring them into one fold.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Love (for Neighbour) “…Like the love for God, so too must we respect our neighbour and fear to do anything to disappoint him/her. Because they are God’s children, we must always do good deeds to them – help, encourage, be friendly, lighten their burden and bring them back to Church.

[I JOH 4:20-21]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Let’s add the preceding verses and then read that piece in context.

1 John 4:7-21 Beloved, let us love one another:

for love is of God;

and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

He that loveth not knoweth not God;

for God is love.

In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.

And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us.

God is love;

and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment:

because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love;

but perfect love casteth out fear:

because fear hath torment.

He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar:

for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.

You’ll notice that the word “neighbor” doesn’t appear in these verses, we are however asked to love our brother. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Can you confess that Jesus (not some church) is the Son of God?

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Cross “…Our spiritual responsibility (cross) is summarised in the two great commandments: ”love the Lord thy God with all thy heart…love thy neighbour as thyself”. “On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” [MAT 22:37-40]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Picking up your cross to follow Jesus has nothing to do with following commandments (Mark 10:19-31).

Let’s see what Jesus said about our cross. In the first century the cross was a symbol of death, it was the torture stake used by the Romans to torture people to death. The Romans forced those that were convicted to carry their crosses to the place of execution; carrying your cross back then was what we would call today “dead man walking”. It was a literal death sentence.

Matthew 10:34-39 Think not that I am come to send peace on earth:

I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. And a man's foes shall be they of his own household.

He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me:

and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.

He that findeth his life shall lose it:

and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.

Every time Jesus said we should pick up our cross to follow Him, it was followed with a promise of eternal life (Matthew 16:24-28, Mark 8:34-38, Luke 9:23-27).

Picking up your cross to follow Jesus means forsaking all that you have to become His disciple (Luke 14:25-33). Are you willing to lose your life by following Jesus?

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Cross “…The cross, our spiritual covenant, consists of two elements – an upright pole planted in the earth and points upwards to remind us of the commandment of God to love Him; to be obedient to His words and will (that come from above) above all things. [LUK 10:27]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Very imaginative but you’re confusing the parable of the good Samaritan (Leviticus 19:18, Luke 10:25-29) with the cross (Matthew 10:34-39, Matthew 16:24-28, Mark 8:34-38, Luke 9:23-27). You also seem to be ignorant of the new covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-40, Hebrews 8:1-13, Hebrews 12:18-29).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Second Theme: Cross “…The second element of the cross is a section that is attached to the upright pole and points sideways to remind us to love our neighbour. The elements of Holy Communion, the cup and the plate are also representative of the elements of the cross. [I COR 10:14-17]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Very imaginative but now you’re confusing the cross with one’s neighbor and shifting the focus from Christ to the cross.

1 Corinthians 10:13-19 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man:

but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able;

but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.

I speak as to wise men;

judge ye what I say.

The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ?

The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?

For we being many are one bread, and one body:

for we are all partakers of that one bread.

Behold Israel after the flesh:

are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?

What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?

We should not be worshipping idols. Communion of the blood and body of Christ (not the cross) means to be in partnership with Christ (not the cross).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet “…The HTC for this period continues to explain the last tenet of faith that deals with the three general themes about our:

- Membership in the body of Jesus Christ;

- Love for God and our neighbour; and

- Submission to authority

This month is dedicated to the last statement.

[Read Confession of Faith]…”

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme “…We believe “that for the Lord’s sake, we must subject ourselves to the rulers and powers placed over us, submit ourselves to every ordinance and acknowledge and respect the legitimate rulers of the land in which we live, even if we have to suffer anguish”. This theme essentially relates to our submission to authority. [PHI 2:5-16]…”

To the author of this tenet:

You’re shifting the focus from Christ Jesus to rulers and powers of the land (Romans 13:1-7, 1 Peter 2:13-17). We are to follow Christ's example of humility, the verses below don’t mention anything about subjecting ourselves to every ordinance of man.

Philippians 2:1-11 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory;

but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Do you confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father? We should shine as lights in the world.

Philippians 2:12-18 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

Do all things without murmurings and disputings:

That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

Holding forth the word of life;

that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.

Being blameless and harmless as the sons of God is not quite the same as submitting ourselves to every ordinance of man (Exodus 1:8-22, Joshua 2:1-24, 1 Samuel 14:43-45, 1 Kings 18:3-4, Daniel 3:12-23, Daniel 6:10-15, Acts 4:18-21, Acts 5:25-29, Revelation 13:15). Be mindful that God’s law is above any other law conceived by man. When we submit ourselves to the ordinances of man, it should be as servants of God and to silence the ignorance of foolish men (1 Peter 2:15-16). We are commanded to pray for our leaders and all men (1Timothy 2:1-6).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme: Order: “…A time and a place for everything; everything is in its place and there is a place for everything. Order exists when leaders fulfil their task by introducing rules that their followers are to obey. Without order, society will fall into chaos! Like society, the Church must also function in an orderly manner and for this purpose God instituted an officer structure and rules in the Church. [I COR 14:33&40]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Those verses are not referring to an officer structure in the church, but to orderly worship, tongues and prophesy. There’s a difference.

1 Corinthians 14:26-40 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together,

every one of you hath a psalm,

hath a doctrine,

hath a tongue,

hath a revelation,

hath an interpretation.

Let all things be done unto edifying.

If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course;

and let one interpret.

But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church;

and let him speak to himself, and to God.

Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.

If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.

For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.

And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.

For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

Let your women keep silence in the churches:

for it is not permitted unto them to speak;

but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law.

And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home:

for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.

What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?

If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.

But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.

Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. Let all things be done decently and in order.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme: “For the Lord’s sake” “…The “Lord” refers to the Church, its members and institutions. “For the Lord’s sake” therefore refers to those things that are beneficial to the Church; to advance the Church and not embarrass or bring it into disrepute. [MAT 5:13-16]…”

To the author of this tenet:

There’s no such statement in the Bible, you’re trying to shift the focus from the Lord to your church. Jesus Christ is the Lord and the Bible always mentions the church as a separate entity to our Lord (Acts 2:47, Acts 14:23, 1 Corinthians 1:2, 1 Corinthians 4:17, 1 Corinthians 16:19, Ephesians 5:29, 1 Thessalonians 1:1, 2 Thessalonians 1:1, 2 Timothy 4:22, James 5:14).

You’re embarrassing your own church and bringing it into disrepute with your unbiblical statements.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme: Subject “…A verb meaning to be submissive or obedient. Remember the explanation about our having to “serve God in submissiveness” (refer previous HTC) which means that we must be obedient to His words and do His good works without questioning the words of instruction that are brought to us by His servants. [HEB 13:7&17 and I PET 2:13-18]…”

To the author of this tenet:

You’re shifting the focus from God to what you call “His servants”.

Written more directly, this is your formula:

“serve God in submissiveness

= be obedient to His words and do His good works

= without questioning the words of instruction that are brought to us by His servants”

Our obedience should only be to God, not to some mere mortal who fancies himself as “His servant”.

Hebrews 13:6-9 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God:

whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.

Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines.

For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace;

not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.

We should be obedient as far as possible without betraying Christ. Whatsoever we do should all be done to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31-33). Servants should be obedient to their masters as unto Christ doing the will of God from the heart (Ephesians 6:5-8). Obey them who watch for your souls (Hebrews 13:17). When we submit ourselves to the ordinances of man, it should be as servants of God and to silence the ignorance of foolish men (1 Peter 2:15-16).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme: Summary “…Leaders and rulers are essential for the good and orderly functioning of society – even the Church. We should recognise this fact and respect and be obedient (subject ourselves) to the leaders and the rulers of society (also the leaders and rulers of the Church) because this is to the benefit and progress of the Church (the Lord) and will not bring the Church into disrepute. [DEU 4:5-9 & 39]…”

To the author of this tenet:

I don’t know why you’re quoting from the Old Testament since the church didn’t exist as a functioning body (the body of Christ) in the Old Testament. The day of Pentecost marked the beginning of the church when the Spirit was poured out about 2,000 years ago (Acts 1:4-5, Acts 2:1-4, Acts 2:41-47). Joel the prophet prophesied about the pouring out of the spirit (Joel 2:28-32) and Joel’s prophecy was fulfilled in the New Testament on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:14-21).

Deuteronomy 4:5-10 Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.

Keep therefore and do them;

for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.

For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?

And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?

Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life:

but teach them thy sons, and thy sons' sons;

Specially the day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy God in Horeb, when the LORD said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children.

Moses was forbidden from entering the good land beyond Jordan (Deuteronomy 3:23-26). Israel’s right to hold property in the land of Canaan was dependent on their obedience to God’s statutes and judgments and teaching their children to do the same.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme: Rulers and Powers. “…People, groups or institutions in a position of leadership who / that draft rules which we have to obey, thereby creating order in society. We refer to both natural and spiritual (Churchly) leaders and rulers. Many of the laws that are in general use come from the Ten Commandments in EXO 20. [TITUS 3:1-7]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Do you know the Ten Commandments and have you read the laws of your respective country? Do yourself a favor and do a one-to-one comparison. You will find that murder, theft and being a false witness are about the only laws that compare with only three of the Ten Commandments. Many of the laws that are in general use do not come from the Ten Commandments.

Titus 3:1-11 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.

But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;

That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law;

for they are unprofitable and vain.

A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;

Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.

According to Strong’s, the word “heretick” is translated from the Greek word aihretikos and is defined as:

a schismatic. (“heretic” is the Greek word itself.): - heretic [the Greekord itself].

Historically speaking the OAC’s “spiritual (Churchly) leaders and rulers” came about due to schisms.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme: Ordinances: “…Natural and spiritual rules and laws instituted for the orderly functioning of both society (e.g. Road Traffic Safety Act) and the Church (e.g. domestic rules of the Church, the will of God – especially the two great commandments). [HEB 8:10; 10:16 & MAT 22:36-40]…”

To the author of this tenet:

If the OAC’s “spiritual (Churchly) leaders and rulers” were obedient to the spiritual rules and laws and laws instituted for the orderly functioning of the church, the OAC would never have existed. This type of schismatic disobedience has been succinctly referred to as the Klibbe Principle.

OAC Confession of Faith: Obedience “…To listen to rules, laws or the will of God; pay attention; and to keep these rules / do the will of God / adhere to the rules and laws. When we are obedient to the rules, laws and the will of God, good and beautiful qualities become evident in our lives – bearing the good fruit of God in our lives – the fruit of the Spirit. [I SAM 15:22 & GAL 5:22&23]…”

To the author of this tenet:

When the laws of man contradict the laws of God, you will have to make a choice, you cannot serve two masters just as you can’t please God and mammon (Matthew 6:19-24, Luke 16:1-13).

You will notice that Samuel wasn’t referring to some officer in a church, He was referring to the LORD (1 Samuel 15:22).

You will also notice that the fruit of the Spirit isn’t the interpretation of the Bible as an allegory, but the opposite of the works of the flesh, and that the works of the flesh doesn’t refer to a literal interpretation of the Bible (Galatians 5:19-26).

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme: Summary (thus far) “…God expects of us, His children, to obey Him, but also to be obedient to the ordinances (rules / laws) of the rulers and powers of the Church and of our land. This applies to both natural and spiritual (Church) leaders and their rules and laws. [ROM 16:19]…”

To the author of this tenet:

We seem to have different Bibles because my Bible doesn’t coincide with your statements.

Romans 16:17-19 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned;

and avoid them.

For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly;

and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

For your obedience is come abroad unto all men.

I am glad therefore on your behalf:

but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.

Their loyalty and obedience was known to all men, their loyalty and obedience wasn’t to all men, read it again carefully.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme: Legitimate Rulers: “…People, groups or institutions that are appointed to a position of leadership in a legal / righteous manner. Just like the leaders in the Church (e.g. the House Priest, the choir leader, Sunday school teacher, etc.) are appointed through the legitimate rules of the Church, so too are the leaders of the country, municipality, school, etc. appointed by means of the rules and laws of the land in order for these leaders to be “legitimate”. We should give both the natural and spiritual leaders the obedience that they are entitled to. [MAR 12:14-17]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Pharaoh was the legitimate ruler of Egypt and instructed the midwives to kill the newborn sons of Israel (Exodus 1:8-22). Was the Pharaoh entitled to obedience?

The king of Jericho was the legitimate ruler of Jericho and instructed Rahab to bring the two Israeli spies to him (Joshua 2:1-24). Was the king of Jericho entitled to obedience?

Saul was the legitimate ruler of Israel and instructed the people to kill Jonathan for tasting some honey (1 Samuel 14:43-45). Was Saul entitled to obedience?

Ahab was the legitimate ruler of Israel and his wife Jezebel (daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Zidonians) started killing the prophets of the LORD (1 Kings 18:3-4). Was Ahab and Jezebel entitled to obedience?

Nebuchadnezzar was the legitimate ruler of Babylon and ordered everyone to fall down and worship an image of gold at the sound of music (Daniel 3:12-23). Was Nebuchadnezzar entitled to obedience?

Darius was the legitimate ruler of Babylon and signed a firm decree that all petitions were to be made to him directly instead of to God (Daniel 6:10-15). Was Darius entitled to obedience?

The council made up of rulers, elders, scribes, the high priest and his kindred were the legitimate spiritual leaders of Israel and commanded Peter and John not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus (Acts 4:18-21, Acts 5:25-29). Was the council entitled to obedience?

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme: The Land in which we Live “…The natural country in which we live. We should obey the laws of our country for we are citizens or residents thereof. However, we also have a spiritual land, the Church that God has given unto His people. We should also obey the rules and ordinances of our Church. [EZE 36:24]…”

To the author of this tenet:

There’s no scripture that says you should obey the rules and ordinances of the OAC. You’re shifting the focus from scripture and Christ Jesus to the OAC.

2 Timothy 3:10-17 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured:

but out of them all the Lord delivered me.

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

OAC Confession of Faith: Last Tenet: Third Theme: Summary (thus far) “…We should obey the legitimate leaders of the natural and spiritual land in which we live, namely our country and the Church. We may sometimes feel anguished and may not always agree with the rules or laws that they institute, but obedience is essential to ensure an orderly life; in the Church and in the land in which we live. [1 PET 2:9-17]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Were Shiphrah, Puah, Rahab, Obadiah, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, Daniel, Peter and John obedient to the legitimate leaders (Exodus 1:8-22, Joshua 2:1-24, 1 Kings 18:3-4, Daniel 3:12-23, Daniel 6:10-15, Acts 4:18-21, Acts 5:25-29, Revelation 13:15)?

We should be obedient as far as possible without betraying Christ. Whatsoever we do should all be done to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31-33). Servants should be obedient to their masters as unto Christ doing the will of God from the heart (Ephesians 6:5-8). Obey them who watch for your souls (Hebrews 13:17). When we submit ourselves to the ordinances of man, it should be as servants of God and to silence the ignorance of foolish men (1 Peter 2:15-16).

OAC Confession of Faith: Revision “…We have come to the end of the explanation regarding the Confession of Faith of the Old Apostolic Church. Review the five tenets that comprise the Confession of Faith, namely: We believe in:

- God (Father, Son and Holy Ghost)

- The Church

- Three holy sacraments

- The Holy Scriptures

- Membership of the Church; love for God, the Brotherhood, our neighbour and ourselves; and submission to authority.

[Confession of Faith]…”

To the author of this tenet:

Unfortunately your tenets are all scripturally flawed. Please start reading the Bible and allow the words of Christ to shape you, don’t try shaping the words of Christ to fit your doctrine.

“...if you're using Scripture as a springboard to say whatever you want rather than teaching what the Bible actually says, you might as well exegete Little Bo Peep..." – John MacArthur

Little Bo Peep sermons

The good news is that there is only one REAL Jesus and He is the ONLY Messiah.