In the religious community, there is much confusion concerning the strictness of God's word. Many want to tell us that the Bible is just a book of good thoughts and suggestions. It is not a pattern, blueprint, or law book to follow. Just how strict is God's law? Let us allow the book to answer for itself!

"You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you." {Deuteronomy 4:2}

"Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other." {1 Corinthians 4:6}

"Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds." {2 John 9-11}

"And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." {Colossians 3:17}

"For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book." {Revelation 22:18,19}

Sounds pretty strict to me -- in both the Old and New Testaments. Let's look at some examples? How about the instructions God gave Adam and Eve in the garden? (Genesis 2:16,17) Look what happened when they disobeyed. What about the ark-building instructions given to Noah? (Genesis 6:13-21) What about the law regarding the fire offered in the tabernacle? Ask Nadab and Abihu how strict it was! (Leviticus 10:1,2) How strict were God's instructions concerning transporting the ark and who could touch it? Ask Uzzah how strict those guidelines were. (2 Samuel 6:6-12) In all of these examples, and many more could be listed, men were not permitted to change or alter what God commanded. Why do men today believe God has changed His mind? Let's stick with the word.