BURNED AT THE STAKE – BY THE “CHURCH”

Jesus had warned us, how the established religion would react to the gospel, and its transformative power. The reason being, the established religion is more an empire, with an imperialist ambition and desire, to control, dominate and decimate all its “enemies” if they show any inkling towards, thinking and acting independent of the empire.
– “​1 These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. 2 They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. 3 And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.” – John 16:1-3

The established religion does not like its power and authority challenged. Whatever it says is right, and whatever it decides is wrong, is wrong. None have the power to question it nor ask for any clarifications and explanations. People are expected to simply obey what is told to them, with unquestioning loyalty and obedience.
– “The intensity of the fanaticism was well exhibited in the persecution in which Stephen fell, and which [Saul of Tarsus] …deemed worthy service, and one which he ought to have rendered (Acts 26:9; Galatians 1:13, 14).” – Pulpit Commentary

Let us look at two specific incidents that have happened on this day, the 16 May, in “Christian” Europe.
– On 16 May 1553, Roman Catholics in Lyons, France, seize five young Frenchmen, for holding views that are contrary to that of the established imperialistic “Church” and burn them to death.
– On 16 May 1569, Dirk Willem is burned at the stake, in Asperen, in his native Netherlands, for his Anabaptist beliefs. While escaping from the prison, he was captured, because, he turned to save his pursuer, who had fallen through the ice. Dirk believed from the Scriptures that, a man should help his enemies. He immediately turned back, and pulled the drowning man from the frigid waters. The very man he rescued, had taken him captive. Dirk Willem was condemned by a group of seven judges for “persisting obstinately in his opinion” of Anabaptist views, and ordered to be burned at the stake.

The Church is supposed to be a place of refuge and succour for troubled souls. Jesus had said…
– ” 28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
However, the established religion seems to be working against the very God, they claim to follow and worship. The Protestant Reformation was a period of serious religious upheaval and reform, in Europe, affecting all walks of life, and the entire European society – from Germany to UK. The cold cruelty is a reflection of the religious fanaticism, and their mindless “devotion” to the “god” they created for themselves. What they say these days, “You are either with us, or against us.” sums up aptly, the fanatical hearts, and its intent.
– “The time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God [a] service: That time quickly came, as the life of Saul of Tarsus before his conversion showed (Acts 8:1-3, 22:3-5, 26:9-11). Since then there have been many who persecute and kill the true followers of Jesus because they think God is pleased.” – David Guzik

Dear brothers beware, such forces are still in operation today…be it in the church, or in the society at large. May the LORD help us to obey Him, rather than be “slaves” to the established religion, and its imperialistic commands, founded in their whims and fancies. Even so, the LORD help us.