In effort to justify their practice, people often argue, "The Bible doesn't say not to." The Bible
doesn't need to condemn a practice to make it sinful and wrong. It is wrong when it is not in the
Scriptures for it violates the above principles. Similarly, many use the time worn reply, "Isn't our
practice a good work; look at the good we're doing." If it's not in the Scriptures, if cannot be a
good work because, again, it is condemned by the above principles.
What should we say, therefore, about the many things which are practiced in religions today that
are not in the Scriptures? For example, what about baptizing infants, sprinkling for baptism,
christening, calling a man Reverend, instrumental music in worship, taking money out of the
church treasury and sending it to human institutions, etc.? Aren't all of the above sixteen
principles violated by such additions?
How can people claim to be followers of Christ when they have no respect whatsoever for the things which Christ said? How can they claim love and respect for Christ when they continue to do things in religion which have been introduced solely by man? Spending time and effort to learn the Word of Christ and continuing steadfastly therein, demonstrates genuine love and respect for Christ. Similarly, a rejection of all traditions and doctrines of men confirms true love and respect for Christ. Those who are doing things not authorized by Christ have no love and respect for Him.