This poem confronts churches that defied the teachings of Christ during a deadly plague. Though claiming to follow Him, they rejected His command: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). They refused to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2), did not look out for the interests of others (Philippians 2:4), and failed to protect the weak (Romans 15:1).
Their gatherings exalted personal liberty over sacrificial love, ignoring the law of Christ. In doing so, they became as those who “honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me” (Matthew 15:8).
And Yet, Are You Dead?
To the 'Christian' churches that rejected health precautions during a deadly plague—and whose deeds were contrary to biblical principles of love, humility, obedience, and care for the vulnerable.
He spoke to the folks who were watchingVia live stream or on their TV
About how loving his church really was –
Such remarkable love, said he.
Then the camera stopped showing the preacher
And instead showed the folks in the pews,
Where no-one at all was wearing a mask!
Could it be his words were a ruse?
Had again the angels to carry
With great shame a disgraceful report
Of a selfish, disobedient church
To Heaven’s omnipotent court?
“They amplify lights, words and music,
But God’s Holy Word they dilute.
Their pride refuses submission,
So they bear no spiritual fruit.”
“There much scripture is ignored;
God’s Golden Rule incomplete.
There the sheep want their ears tickled,
And the shepherds indulge the sheep!”
“There the rights their nation grants them
Are esteemed more than gifts God bestows.
Equal under their law, they freely rebel.
God is with them, they vainly suppose!”
Incomplete in the sight of Almighty God
Are their deeds! O what might have been!
To him who knows better but whose deeds are not done,
To him (and to Him) it is sin!
How few there have ears which to listen
To ALL God’s Word has to say!
Will He spare such a church from a visit by night?
Like a thief what will He take away?
Had only they followed ALL Scripture.
Had only they woke from their sleep.
Had only they not shamed the angels
Every time they gathered to meet.
Next poem: Always Remember The Poor
Author: Jerry Dan Deutschendorf
from: Warnings to the 'Christian' Church in America