#22: The Church in Babylon: Refusing to Bow

<ul><li> Email: [email protected]</li><li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li><li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li><li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/THE_CHURCH_IN_BABYLON_REFUSING_TO_BOW.pdf </li><li> The story of Mordecai in the biblical book of Esther is used as a metaphor to illustrate the Church's position in a worldly and hostile environment, symbolized by Babylon. Like Mordecai in Persia, the Church must stand firm and not bow down to the pressures of this world.Haman, an Agagite and an enemy of the Jews, demanded reverence from all. Everyone bowed to him except Mordecai. This refusal stemmed from Mordecai's understanding of God's decree to fight against Amalek, a symbol of sin. The message is clear: the Church must not compromise with sin, as it brings destruction. Paul's dedication to daily dying to sin is cited as an example.Babylon represents the contemporary world with its idols and sinful allure. Paul's warnings about the last days' idols are referenced, emphasizing the need to turn away from godless influences. The Church, though present in Babylon, must not adopt its values. Mordecai's watchfulness near the palace serves as a metaphor for the Church's role as spiritual guardians and reminders of God's covenant.Esther's situation, being Jewish in a foreign land, mirrors the Church's predicament. Just as Esther became queen to a pagan king, the Church, though orphaned in Babylon, is favored by Christ. The promise that God would be a "little sanctuary" for His people, even in foreign lands, is invoked.The return of the Jewish generation to Jerusalem after 70 years of Babylonian captivity parallels the Church's eventual departure from this world. Despite success in Babylon, many Jews chose to return, understanding God's promises. The Church too awaits the day when the promises of Christ come to fruition, just as those who left Babylon were recorded. The metaphor concludes with a reminder of Jesus' prophecy that some will be taken while others are left, signifying the Church's ultimate separation from the world.</li></ul>