Fact of Fake Sacrifices (Written in the context of Northeastern States of India)

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The Northeast India Christians
“If his gift for a burnt offering is from the flock, from the sheep or goats, he shall bring a male without blemish... And the priest shall offer all of it and burn it on the altar; it is a burnt offering, a food offering with a pleasing aroma to the Lord. (Leviticus 1:10 &13)

In the Northeastern states of India, Christians have long held ministers of God in high regard—a sentiment I personally affirm. Scripture supports this honor, as Paul exhorts that ministers of God be given double honor (1 Timothy 5:17). However, despite this reverence, certain misunderstandings and gaps persist between laypeople and ministers, which hinder the health and integrity of the church.

1. Misguided Dedication: Giving Without True Surrender

A common issue arises when individuals dedicate their lives to God with misguided intentions. Many are sent to Bible colleges without genuine commitment to God’s service, under the assumption that spiritual transformation will automatically occur through theological education. Yet Bible college is not a place for casual exploration—it is a training ground for those already dedicated to the ministry of Christ.

Tragically, we often offer God the least and expect the most in return. This contradicts the biblical principle of sacrificial giving. Scripture consistently reveals that God desires offerings without blemish—gifts that reflect our reverence and love. The issue is not the quantity of our offering, but the quality and sincerity behind it. Whether large or small, God delights in what is given wholeheartedly.

This principle extends to how we offer our children for ministry. While dedicating sons and daughters to God’s service is honorable, we must ask: are we offering our best? Too often, families send those who struggle academically, or who have histories of addiction and immorality, while reserving the gifted and capable for secular pursuits. This is not to say that God cannot redeem broken lives—He certainly does—but the motive behind such decisions must be examined. Are we truly giving our best to the Lord, or merely offloading what we deem expendable

2. Unrealistic Expectations of Ministers

Another concern is the unrealistic perception of ministers as sinless, angelic figures. While ministers are called to live holy lives, they are still human—subject to temptation, fatigue, and personal struggles. Many leave behind comfort and security to serve the church, yet they are often expected to live on meager salaries while performing duties far beyond their compensation.

This imbalance affects not only the ministers but also their families. Wives and children often suffer silently due to financial strain, while congregations expect full-time commitment without adequate support. Ministers need encouragement, fair provision, and understanding—not unrealistic standards that ignore their humanity.

3. The Rise of False Mission Workers

Conversely, laypeople are also misled by individuals who pose as ministers of God but lack genuine calling or character. These so-called mission workers—whether theologically trained or not—often pursue ministry for personal gain: fame, financial stability, or social status. Some enter Bible college as a last resort after failing in secular endeavors, hoping to earn the title ‘Oja’ and the respect that comes with it.

Such individuals may appear pious, but their ministries are self-centered rather than Christ-centered. They deceive not only the people but also dishonor God, leading the flock astray and tarnishing the witness of the church. Their presence creates spiritual confusion, leaving God’s people like sheep without shepherds.

Final Exhortation

We are privileged to serve a living God. To live and labor like Christ requires His attitude—one of sacrifice, humility, and wholehearted devotion. Yet we often fall short.

Therefore, I conclude with three urgent appeals:

  1. Let our attitude of giving be transformed. God, the Creator of all, deserves our best—not our leftovers. Parents must reconsider the practice of offering only their wayward children for ministry while withholding those with excellence and potential.
  2. Let our assumptions about ministers be corrected. They are not angels, but fellow humans called to serve. They need our support—spiritually, emotionally, and materially.
  3. Let us discern true servants from imposters. Not all who bear the title of minister are genuine. Their lives and testimonies must be carefully observed. The integrity of the ministry depends on it.

May God grant us wisdom, humility, and discernment as we seek to honor Him in all things.
 God bless. Amen.


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