Bible Study Seattle

In the mid 1600s there was a schism in Russia over worship.  Reforms had been made which many did not like.  Disputes about instrumental music and making the sign of the cross with two or three fingers caused many to flee.  In fact, about 20,000 were burnt at the stake for keeping the old style of worship.  Did these people secure themselves a place in heaven?  Does God really care whether there’s instruments in worship or how many fingers one uses to make the sign of the cross?  No.  We cannot force God’s hand.  What really counts is the heart.  Paul says, “If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.”  1 Corinthians 13:3.  Conversely, look at David.  He was an adulterer and a murderer.  Yet God is going to set him over all Israel and the world!  “‘My servant David will be king over them, and they will all have one shepherd. They will follow my laws and be careful to keep my decrees.”  Ezekiel 37:24  Or look at Paul.  He was a murderer.  Yet he became perhaps the greatest Christian.  Both Paul and David repented.  Rank in heaven is not primarily about giving one’s life to the flames.