Christian Theology - Media Sabda Org

Of this glorious church every Christian soul is an epitome: for as God
dwells in the church at large, so he dwells in every believer in particular:
each is a habitation of God through the Spirit. In vain are all pretensions
among sects and parties to the privilege of the church of Christ, if they
have not the doctrine and life of Christ. Traditions and legends are not
apostolic doctrines, and showy ceremonies are not the life of God in the
soul of man.
Religion has no need of human ornaments or trappings; it shines by its
own light, and is refulgent with its own glory. Where it is not in life and
power, men have endeavoured to produce a specious image, dressed and
ornamented with their own hands. Into this, God never breathed;
therefore, it can do no good to man, and only imposes on the ignorant and
credulous by a vain show of lifeless pomp and splendour. This phantom,
called "true religion," and "the church," by its votaries, is in heaven
denominated "vain superstition;" the speechless symbol of departed piety.
The government of the church of Christ is widely different from
secular governments. It is founded in humility and brotherly love: it is
derived from Christ, the great head of the church, and is ever conducted
by his maxims and Spirit. When political matters are brought into the
church of Christ, both are ruined. The church has more than once ruined
the state; the state has often corrupted the church: it is certainly for the
interests of both to be kept separate. This has already been abundantly
exemplified in both cases, and will continue to be, over the whole world,
wherever the church and state are united in secular matters.
"The chief priests were sore displeased," or, "were incensed." Incensed
at what? At the purification of the profane temple! This was a work they
should have done themselves, but for which they had neither grace nor
influence; and their pride and jealousy will not suffer them to permit
others to do it. Strange as it may appear, the priesthood itself, in all
corrupt times, has ever been the most forward to prevent a reform in the
church. Was it because they were conscious that a reformer would find
them no better than money-changers in, and profaners of, the house of