This particular concept is intrinsically tied to the concept of mandated tithing as was tradition within the Mosaiac law and is a cornerstone of UPCI ideals. For the sake of trying to keep this section relatively concise, I would encourage you to read a non-denominational - straight biblical examination into the modern day concept of tithing.
Explore what tithing was prescribed for under the law, “first fruits”, as well as what tithes were paid with as a starting point to examine if those same principles align with what we are told today.
Setting aside the topic of tithing for this discussion, it is clearly stated that the MOG is regarded as the modern-day continuation of the Levitical priesthood. As such, they claim ownership to your tithes, possess the authority to scrutinize your giving (to ensure you aren’t “robbing God”), and demand a level of respect deserving of a chief priest.
If a MOG is particularly crafty, you may hear a message of “false humility” in Sunday sermons—only to encounter an entirely different message during ‘ministry classes’. Those already in ‘submission to MOG’, having already given so much, become easier targets for additional pressure and condemnation.
1 Peter 2:9-10
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
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1 Peter 2:1-12 affirms that believers are a chosen race and a royal priesthood—a promise extended to all who are saved through Christ by faith, as thoroughly explained in Galatians 3. This promise is not reserved solely for so-called “Super Christians”, nor MOGs.
Revelation 5:9-10
And they sang a new song, saying, Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.
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We are ALL a royal priesthood equally under Christ—our high priest is Jesus!.
Hebrews 2:17-18
Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
I encourage you to research the purpose of the original Levitical priesthood; and how it has been replaced on earth through Jesus as the high priest—as explained thoroughly in Hebrews, chapters 4-10.
The next time you are made to feel as though you are under the rule of a modern day priest, ask yourself - is the MOG from the lineage of Aaron? How about of the lineage of Melchizedek? Or did somebody “accidentally” mix up the ‘grafting of gentiles’ concept with this priesthood lineage hoping no one would challenge it?
The explanation you will most likely hear if pressed at all is that the MOG today is called to “follow the example” and dedication set forth by the Levitical priests. Again however, this is patently false as actual scripture has shown us. There are no longer separation of priests & non-priests—walk in the freedom of Christ!
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.