James 1:27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
A known famous saying is: “The only thing needed for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing.” How hard is it for a good man to stand up or change Washington? In psychology, there is a term called “group-think.” This tactic is said to be used in politics, but also in religion. It can be very subtle or very brazen. One can gradually be un-empowered by avoidance, blackballed, or slander to reduce his/her creditability. The thinking is that one should go along with the majority of the group, or the leadership without interrupting the mission or objective. It is not respectable or “Christian” to disagree with the leaders. It certainly doesn’t sound fair or democratic. It is common knowledge that most organizations are autocratic. This is true in corporations and religious organizations. Many religious organizations’ wealth and assets makes corporations’ wealth look rather small. I read there are only 3 real commandments when it comes to others besides “love one another.” These are taking care of the poor, the widow, and the orphan.
I gained a whole new respect for our government after taking care of my mother for 7 years. If it wasn’t for social security, Medicare, and Medicaid, the widows would have had nowhere to turn. So, are some churches thinking they can take their wealth to heaven? Consequently, there should be no surprises. Some would pull the God or Jesus card, and say you should be more Christian …. And you should turn the other cheek as Jesus did. Consequently, Jesus was crucified for speaking the Truth. Jesus told his disciples “they will hate you as they hate me.”