Today’s gospel: John 8:21-30
Once again, we have a definition of modernism that we can draw from Jesus’ words. He said to the scribes and Pharisees, who were the religious leaders of the time, “You belong to what is below, I belong to what is above. You belong to this world, but I do not belong to this world.” (v.23). Liberals and modernists in our Church look to what is human, to the culture of the age, to what makes people happy in this life, and in the process neglect what is of the above, what is truly of Christ, what can preserve people for life eternal.
What do modernists say and teach today?
That LGBT is acceptable, And that same-sex marriage can be blessed.
That while abortion is still considered sinful, rabid and public pro-aborts are not to be called out and are still allowed to receive Holy Communion.
That in the ongoing Synod on Synodality, all, including apostates and heretics and atheists, are to be consulted, while those who “rigidly” adhere and are faithful to the authentic faith, those who cling to Tradition, are hounded, canceled and removed from office.
Belonging to this world and what is below leads to sin and death. As Jesus says, “That is why I told you that you will die in your sins.” (v.24a). If the focus is the world and the human person, if the focus is not Christ and the righteousness of God, if there is failure in belief in Jesus and the fullness of his truth, then sin and death are inevitable. “For if you do not believe that I AM, you will die in your sins.” (v.24b).
But to modernists, perhaps that is not too much of a concern, because they believe there is no hell. They believe in a God of love and mercy who will not punish sinners. But when they die and go to hell, it is already too late for them to change. Jesus has warned them, in his words as recorded in scripture and in the age-old teachings of the Church. “What I told you from the beginning. I have much to say to you in condemnation.” (v.25b-26a).
When the sheep are separated from the goats in the final judgment, how tragic it would be for the latter. Especially for the modernists who will hear Jesus say, “you will die in your sin. Where I am going you cannot come.” (v.21b).
Modernists, there is still time. Turn away from your folly. Truly listen to Jesus and not to the evil one. Look to what is above and not to what is below. Hear Jesus say, “Then you will realize that I AM” (v.28b). You can still be saved. “Because he spoke this way, many came to believe in him.” (v.30).
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