What a sad commentary to realize that the Religious Spirit is just as prevelant today as it was in the time of Christ.

There are Pharisees in our churches who don't understand the gospel of grace. When they get into power, they can lock the church into a cycle of powerlessness by focusing on the form rather than the essence of the gospel. There are Saduccees who love the politics and crave influence. When they get into power, manipulation, personal interest and agenda are the norm.

There are the Essenes who just want to separate themselves from the pollution of the world and do their devotions and prayers in peace. And then, of course, there are the zealots, focused on their cause (and there are a lot of worthy causes out there).

But, in the end, the question is whether there are any real disciples, willing to follow the Way of the Cross, to help lead the church.

Outline

Introduction

Chapter One – The Humiliation of God

Chapter Two – The Parable of the Religious Slave

Chapter Three – The Religious Leader

Chapter Four – The Religious Church

Chapter Five - Toxic Faith in the Religious Church

Chapter Six – Spiritual Abuse by Religious Leaders

Chapter Seven – The Dangers of Communion

Chapter Eight – The Dark Side of Church Discipline

Chapter Nine – The Unattractive Church

Chapter Ten – Hell is a Joke (Story)

Conclusion