It is easier to believe a lie you have heard a thousand times than a truth you have never heard.

Michael Shank

There was nothing impressive about the appearance of the preacher. He was old. He had hearing aids in both ears. He certainly would not compete with the "Mega Pastors" of our day and age. He did not put on a show. He even put some people to sleep as he talked.

Yet this man, Gordon Nailer, had something that so many of the Mega Pastors will never have.

He had the truth!

And, he uttered one of the most important truths I have ever heard a preacher speak. He said, "Do you believe something about God? Put your finger on it in the Bible! If you cannot put your finger on it in the Bible, it is not worth believing."

I, both as a Christian and as one who is privileged to preach from time to time, have taken that basic truth to heart. I want you to know that I truly could care less about whether or not people believe everything I say. As a matter of fact, a good dose of healthy scepticism might be the only thing that will prevent you from being lost for all of eternity. I have no desire to be "perceived of being right" if I am wrong. Do you?

As a Christian, you should fear and loathe any preacher who would rather tell a lie that is popularly accepted, than a truth that is unpopular or inconsistent with the doctrines of the people of their denomination. These loathsome men are easy to identify: They get mad when their beliefs are challenged, and will clearly let you know that your understanding is just not up to the wisdom of their educated minds.

On the other hand, the humble man will consider what God has to say. If he finds he has been preaching in error, will seek to correct it. If you are a preacher reading this article, which man are you?

So... is our religion a lie? Can we put our finger on each and everything we believe about God, or is much of our belief system found only in the minds of popular men?

The fact is that Jesus - the One whom we profess to follow - indicated in no uncertain terms that the road to Hell would be popular. He called this the "broad" way. He also indicated in the most unambiguous of terms that the path to Heaven would be unpopular. He called this the "narrow" way. Which do you follow?

The only way you can ever know with a certainty that your beliefs are right is to read the Bible for yourself and put your finger on it! Within the pages of this great book are instructions for how to be saved, how to worship, where to worship, how to live, how to have peace and hope, and how to acceptably show your love towards God and Jesus.

Is your religion a lie? Better make sure!

Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.

Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 7:13-15, RSV