Published on May 24, 2024, 12:43 am

In recent years, there’s been a significant rise in counterfeit practices across various fields—money, goods, and most disconcertingly, even churches. Amidst this proliferation of falsities, one eternal truth continues to stand strong: Jesus Christ. However, even His sacred name isn’t exempt from the world’s relentless pursuit of deception. A prime example of such deceptive acts is seen in the actions of the United Methodist Church.

The United Methodist Church (UMC), with its roots nestled in the historical folds of John Wesley’s evangelical revival in 18th-century England, has been an influential pillar in American mainline Protestantism since its inception in 1968. Known for its methodical approach to discipleship and spiritual growth, it was considered a relatively conservative arm of Protestant Christianity despite certain deviations from Biblical precision.

Nonetheless, over recent decades, the church has gradually moved away from its foundational principles and religious integrity by embracing contrarian liberal ideologies and undermining Scripture. Tragically beholden to today’s cultural relevance and a persistent quest for approval at the cost of biblical truth, the UMC abandoned its authority based on Scripture.

During the 2024 General Conference of UMC—regarded as an unfortunate turning point—the church controversially overturned its long-standing ban on LGBTQ+ clergy and officially endorsed same-sex marriages. Instead of fostering inclusivity or unity as claimed by those denouncing Christian values rooted deeply within Judeo-Christian beliefs about marriage and sexuality.

This decision has only served to widen rifts within the denomination itself. Bishop David Graves oversaw this conference where delegates predominantly agreed to redefine marriage as a holy union between two people regardless of their gender identities—an act that continues to be met with widespread backlash among trustful believers who perceive it as counterintuitive and contradicting Christian principles.

Moreover, some traditionally oriented voices within the UMC community—including individuals outside America like Rev. Jerry Kulah from Liberia—firmly criticized this shift, voicing their intent to disconnect from the denomination considering its stark divergence from orthodox Christianity.

On the other hand, those in favor of these radical changes advocate for a broader interpretation of Divine will. “Reverend” Valerie Wilson tried to justify this doctrinal evolution by arguing in a PBS interview that it symbolizes growth in understanding God.

Unfortunately, such attempts at justification merely veil the truth: The UMC has strayed from genuine worship and made a direct dive into aberrance. Their depiction is not that of the biblical Christ but a falsification shaped by human biases—depicting Christ who conforms to mankind’s whims rather than denouncing them. This counterfeit “Christ”, viewed as appealing by unconverted individuals, is similar to the golden calf that eases the conscience of those in sin, without requiring any sacrifice.

In contrast, the Biblical Christ—who was crucified for sinners’ redemption and demands sincere repentance—is completely different. He does not offer temporary comfort through cultural relevance but comes with an eternal promise of reconciliation with God.

Ultimately, the UMC’s newly adopted gospel is spurious; it’s designed to mollify worldly pressures rather than faithfully adhering to Scripture’s authority. In pursuit of illusory acceptance, they’ve abandoned their mission to enlighten society and have become indistinguishable from it.

As followers of true faith, we need to recognize this deception for what it truly is—an abandonment of real news and authentic teachings steeped in Christian worldview—and remain steadfast in our commitment to Gospel truth. Such misguided deviance can befall any church or denomination if they’re not sincerely reborn according to Christian principles.

Only proclaiming the absolute Biblical Christ—who alone can usher salvation, transformation, and genuine liberation—can assure spiritual fulfillment. Anything less will be an impostor incapable of satisfying humanity’s innate spiritual yearning.