Understanding the Word “Patron”
Definition
According to the Topical Bible:
Patron (n.) — One who protects, supports, or countenances; a defender.
(Source: BibleHub – Patron)
From a biblical perspective, this word describes Jesus Christ’s unique position as the only true patron of all things in the entire world.
Misuse of the Word “Patron” in Christianity
Many Christians have misunderstood and misused the word “patron” in a worldly way.
As a result, many churches appoint human beings as patrons of churches, which is not biblical.
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Those who declare apostles, angels, or any humans as patrons or patron saints of churches do not recognize the biblical truth.
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How can believers accept Saint Patrick as the patron saint of Ireland?
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Psalm 127:1 says, “Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.”
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What patronage do Peter and Paul have? What about Saint Andrew as the patron saint of England?
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Jesus Christ is the master builder of His church, which is His house.
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Saints like Nicholas and others cannot patronize the churches of Christ.
Jesus Christ: The Only True Patron of His Church
Only Jesus Christ is the one and only patron of His churches.
He:
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Died for His churches, washing away their sins with His precious blood.
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Gave His churches salvation, which no man can give.
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Provides, cares for, watches over, blesses, heals, and nourishes His church.
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Is the entrance, the canopy, and the shepherd of His church.
The World’s Mistake and Warning from Scripture
The world has wrongly put itself in God’s position by making humans, cities, towns, or countries the owners or patrons of the church of Christ.
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This practice started with the papacy and has trapped many believers.
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Isaiah 42:8 says, “I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.”
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Do not give the glory of God to any human being or graven image.
False Leaders and Practices in Some Churches
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Fake miracle workers, false preachers, and false leaders rob the churches of Christ.
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Fake deliverance ministries and their pastors exploit believers.
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In Christ, all things pass away and believers become new creatures.
Biblical Examples and a Call to Return to Truth
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Mary Magdalene was delivered from seven evil spirits before becoming a disciple of Christ.
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She was the first evangelist to share the resurrection news with the apostles.
To those who exploit the church for money or turn it into a marketplace or bookstore, remember:
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The church is not a place for commerce or distraction.
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Bibles should be read and studied deeply, guided by the Holy Spirit and the word of God.
Closing Thought
Jesus Christ is the only true patron of His church.
What have we turned His church into—human-owned institutions all over the world?
