Why Men Obey Error #4 Review: Loyalty to men, partial view; ignorance, traditionalism; walking by sight

Emotionalism Emotionalism is dangerous – causes people to do immoral things Emotionalism is contagious – people imitate what they see Emotionalism is subjective – no standard! Some will argue at judgment (Mt. 7:21-23)

Emotionalism is Irrational Jehovah’s Witnesses predictions: William Miller – millennial reign in 1873 Russell – in 1889 said will end 1914 Rutherford – 1920 book “Millions Now Living Will Never Die” – end in 1925 In 1966 taught – in Fall of 1975 Emotionalism is not influenced by facts!

Joseph Smith In 1835 predicted “the coming of the Lord, which is nigh – even fifty-six years should wind up the scene.” In 1832 (written 1851) predicted Civil War ( ) – from S.C. “war will be poured out on all nations, beginning at this place” (D & C 87) Mormons misuse Jas. 1:5

Herbert W. Armstrong “The United States and Britain in Prophecy” 1967 Edition – “A staggering turn in world events is due to erupt in the next four to seven years” 1972 Edition – “A staggering turn in world events is due to erupt in the next few years”

Faith Healers Claim your healing – even if you do not have it. (Misuse Jas. 5:13-15 – make “faith” that of one claiming healing.) The Bible teaches and experience agrees that miraculous gifts ceased (Acts 8:18; 1 Cor. 12:28-31; 13:8-10)

Mourner’s Bench Salvation “Dear God, I know I’m a sinner. I know my sin deserves to be punished. I believe Christ died for me and rose from the grave. I trust Jesus Christ alone as my Savior. Thank You for the forgiveness and everlasting life I now have. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

What is Wrong With That? No Scripture tells one to become a child of God through prayer. Cornelius prayed – but was not saved by prayer (Acts 10:1,2,47,48) Saul prayed – but was not saved by prayer (Acts 9:9-11; 22:13-16; Rom. 6:3,4)

Emotion and Revelation The apostles spoke in tongues (Acts 2:1-4) – How did they feel? The Samaritans received the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:12-17) – How did they feel? People have feeling have never had before – It must be the Holy Spirit! End up giving passions the place they intended to give to God!

Emotion’s Place? The product of obedience to revelation (Acts 8:29-39) Emotion is not revelation – “I feel this is right, therefore it is right for me” = emotionalism. Followers of William Miller, Joseph Smith, Herbert W. Armstrong, Oral Roberts, Jim Jones, et.al. felt they were right!

Conclusion The problem with emotionalism – we do not know how God feels by how we feel! He gave us intellect, will and emotion – expects us to use the whole heart, not just emotion! Rom. 6:16-18; 10:17