The MOG (Man Of God), along with the systems he carefully constructs around himself, enforces a performance-based, works-centered, and outwardly observable expression of faith.

This of course is intertwined with the prior examinations—since the MOG is perceived as being the “closest” to God, he assumes the authority to determine whether you are doing “enough” in God’s eyes. In reality, however, this measurement is based solely on his own expectations.

This concept is the fuel that burns believers; the processor which tears through volunteers. Forever promising, never arriving—congregants will be used until they have no more to give; at which point they will be rung entirely dry and tossed to the side as a filthy rag where they are ’tossed a bone’ on occasion through empty praise of “dedication”.

This is a slow poison that builds over time, often used as another measure of your “walk with God”—so slow in fact that it is hard to recognize until you have already arrived at the point of burnout. Once you do hit that point, you are sent to the “Mediator of God’s” office—in order to bring you back onto the production line.

Remember all the principles we have covered thus far—God is not looking at what you can do for Him, nor with how faithful your “ministry” appears to be. Instead, He is entirely focused on the condition of your heart, not in the manipulative way that has become so ingrained in us.

It is a perverse and deliberately abusive tactic to distort God’s “motive of the heart” in common phrases such as, “If your heart were truly right, you would have no problem dedicating all your free time to the MOG’s mission,” or “After all God has done for us, how can we be so selfish?”

Luke 9:61

Yet another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but let me first say farewell to those at my home.” Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”

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This oft-twisted verse is used by MOGs to justify an “all or nothing” approach to volunteer work. Make no mistake—Jesus is speaking of following HIM and not looking back at your life before Him—He wasn’t speaking about singing into a microphone for Sunday’s concert

Matthew 9:36-38

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

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This should not be used to guilt-trip you for not “doing enough”. Jesus himself said to his disciples to pray earnestly for more laborers to be sent out—your prayers & support does not always appear in foot traffic. That is in addition to setting aside the discussion that we all are called to spread the good news of Jesus regardless of any formal “ministry” as well.

John 10:10-11

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

Matthew 11:28-30

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

This post is part of the “Law To Grace” series, a multi-part exploration of how man-made authority and false doctrine has shaped our faith—and how God’s grace and truth can overcome these man-made shackles. Whether you’re reading in order or joining the conversation midway, each article provides insights to help you discern truth from deception and embrace the unconditional love of Christ.

This work represents my personal views and interpretations and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of any organization, including the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI) or any other religious institution. The content is intended for discussion and personal reflection. Any references to organizations, doctrines, or teachings are made for informational and analytical purposes.