23/03/2023
Teachings of the Bible that differ from Iglesia ni Cristo
The Bible and the teachings of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) have some similarities, but there are also some notable differences. Here are a few teachings of the Bible that differ from those of the INC:
The Nature of Jesus Christ: The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ is fully divine and fully human (John 1:1, 14; Colossians 2:9). However, the INC teaches that Jesus Christ is a mere man who was chosen by God to be His messenger and high priest.
Salvation by Grace: The Bible teaches that salvation is a gift of grace, which means it is undeserved and cannot be earned (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, the INC teaches that salvation is earned by doing good works and being a member of their church.
The Holy Spirit: The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit is a distinct person of the Trinity (Matthew 28:19; John 14:16-17). However, the INC teaches that the Holy Spirit is a mere force or power of God.
The Resurrection: The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ physically rose from the dead (Luke 24:39-43; John 20:26-29). However, the INC teaches that Jesus Christ only rose spiritually, not physically.
Salvation for All: The Bible teaches that salvation is available to all people, regardless of their race or ethnicity (Galatians 3:28). However, the INC teaches that salvation is only available to those who are members of their church.
Baptism: The Bible teaches that baptism is a symbol of one's faith in Jesus Christ and a public declaration of one's commitment to follow Him (Matthew 28:19-20; Romans 6:3-4). However, the INC teaches that baptism is necessary for salvation and that it must be done only within their church.
The Trinity: The Bible teaches that there is one God who exists in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19). However, the INC teaches that there is only one true God and that Jesus Christ is not divine, but rather a human being.
The Second Coming of Christ: The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ will return to earth in the future to judge the living and the dead (Matthew 24:30-31; Acts 1:11). However, the INC teaches that Jesus Christ has already returned in the person of their founder, Felix Manalo.
Eternal Life: The Bible teaches that those who believe in Jesus Christ will have eternal life in heaven (John 3:16; 1 John 5:13). However, the INC teaches that only their members will be saved and will inherit eternal life.
Worship: The Bible teaches that believers can worship God anywhere and at any time (John 4:21-24; Acts 17:24-25). However, the INC teaches that worship must be done only within their church and according to their specific practices and traditions.
It's important to keep in mind that these are just a few examples of the differences between the teachings of the Bible and the teachings of the Iglesia ni Cristo. As with any religious group, there may be variations in beliefs and practices among individual members.
Fellowship: The Bible teaches that Christians should have fellowship with one another, which includes meeting together, sharing in one another's lives, and supporting one another (Hebrews 10:24-25; Acts 2:42-47). However, the INC teaches that fellowship should be limited to members of their church and that non-members should be avoided or viewed with suspicion.
Love: The Bible teaches that love is the greatest commandment and that Christians should love one another as Jesus loved them (John 13:34-35; 1 Corinthians 13:13). However, the INC's strict membership requirements and exclusive claims to truth can make it difficult for members to show love and acceptance to those who are not part of their church.
Tithing: The Bible teaches that Christians should give generously and sacrificially to support the work of the church and help those in need (2 Corinthians 9:6-8; Luke 12:33-34). However, the INC requires its members to give a specific percentage of their income as a tithe to the church, which some may view as legalistic or burdensome.
Interfaith Dialogue: The Bible teaches that Christians should engage in respectful dialogue with people of other faiths and seek to build bridges of understanding and friendship (1 Peter 3:15; Colossians 4:5-6). However, the INC tends to be insular and does not engage in interfaith dialogue, viewing other religions as false and misguided.
Service to Others: The Bible teaches that Christians should serve others and seek to make a positive difference in the world (Matthew 25:31-46; Galatians 5:13-14). However, the INC places a strong emphasis on serving and supporting their own members, rather than reaching out to the wider community and addressing social issues.
