the Simplicity of Christ

The New Testament describes the gospel as “the power of God for salvation” (Romans 1:16). It is the message of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and it brings about a radical transformation in the lives of those who believe. However, the gospel has been diluted and distorted by the addition of leaven – the law of Moses and the old covenant mosaic customs.

Leaven, in the Bible, is often used as a symbol of sin, pride, and corruption. Jesus warned His disciples to “beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees” (Matthew 16:6) – the religious leaders who were adding man-made traditions and legalism to the law of Moses. Paul also warned the Galatians about the leaven of legalism: “A little leaven leavens the whole lump” (Galatians 5:9).

In the same way, the gospel can be corrupted by the addition of the law of Moses and old covenant customs. Many churches and believers today are still clinging to the old covenant practices, such as circumcision, dietary laws, and observance of special days and seasons. This mixture of the old and new covenants leads to confusion, legalism, and a lack of spiritual growth and transformation.

To experience the fullness of the new covenant gospel, we must remove the leaven of the old covenant. We must embrace the simplicity and sufficiency of Christ’s finished work on the cross, and the power of the Holy Spirit. The new covenant gospel is not about external rituals and observances, but about an internal transformation of the heart and mind. This transformation is accomplished through the spiritual tools that Christ has given us – prayer, prophecy, and speaking in tongues.

When we remove the leaven and embrace the fullness of the new covenant gospel, we can experience the spiritual transformation that comes from participation in the priesthood. We can serve God as royal priests in the temple, with access to the tools that He has sanctified in His Blood. We can experience the glorious work of regeneration of the soul and renewing of the mind within. Let us remove the leaven and embrace the fullness of the new covenant gospel today.

What are some ways that we can ensure we are fully embracing the new covenant gospel and participating in the priesthood with the spiritual tools?