“CROSSOVER NIGHT” AND THE SILENCE OF SCRIPTURE Joshua Ojo. A Biblical Examination of New Year’s Eve Vigils “What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it.” — Deuteronomy 12:32 INTRODUCTION: A PRACTICE ALMOST EVERYONE ACCEPTS As December 31st approaches each year, religious centers across the world prepare for what is popularly called “Crossover Night,” “Watch Night,” or “New Year’s Eve Vigil.” Church halls are decorated. Special services are announced. Prophecies are pronounced. “Declarations” are made over the coming year. People are told that how you cross over determines how your year will go. For many, this practice feels spiritual, emotional, and meaningful. But the most important question is not: Is it popular? Is it emotional? Is it traditional? Does it feel good? The only question that matters is: “Is it authorized by Scripture?” The Bible warns us: “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” — 1...
TODAY'S TOPIC: Biblical View of Vigils and Cross-Over Night Prayers. "...whatever you do, do all to the glory of God..." "...And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him..." 1Cor.10:31; Col. 3:17.
As a Disciple of Christ, it is essential to approach this question with Biblical authority (Colossians 3:17), and a commitment to practices explicitly commanded or authorized in the Scriptures. Let us examine this topic through the lens of Biblical teaching! --- 1. Understanding "Vigil" and "Cross-Over Night Prayers". Vigils generally refer to late-night or all-night gatherings for prayer, worship, or reflection. Cross-Over Night Prayers are specific to New Year’s Eve, where individuals or Congregations gather to pray into the New Year. These practices are popular in many religious traditions, but we must ask: Are they authorized by Scripture, and can the Church of Christ...
Are You Among False Brethren? Jesus warned us that “false Christs and false prophets” will come and will attempt to deceive even God’s elect (Matthew 24:23–27; 2 Peter 3:3; Jude 1:17–18). To guard against falsehood, false teachers, and Brethren, it’s important to know the truth and know the characteristics of the counterfeit. Any believer who “correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15) and who makes a careful study of the Bible must be able to identify both false Brethren and their doctrines. Jesus said, “A tree is recognized by its fruit” (Matthew 12:33). So, believers are to be fruit inspectors. Knowing the look, texture, and taste of a healthy apple is important. So is knowing the look, texture, and taste—and smell—of a rotten one. Here are three specific tests to apply to any Christian to determine the accuracy of his or her teaching: 1) What does the Christian say about Jesus? In Matthew 16:15-16, Jesus asks, “Who do you say I am?” Peter ans...
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