An ‘in-depth’ article was published by an online-only paper (clue: it starts and ends with the letter ‘R’), with the title posing this question: Will scandals erode Iglesia Ni Cristo vote? My answer: Definitely NOT!
The said article wrongly assumes that the recent moves of expelled INC members gained traction and influenced the majority of the Church membership.
Citing as one of their proofs of such influence is the ‘small’ crowd in the recent protest of the INC in Edsa against the injustice of the Department of Justice. Only media outfits like Rappler, ABS-CBN, and Inquirer believe that the INC drew a small crowd in that protest in spite of their news reports that the protest created monumental traffic all over the metro.
But the general public, and the impartial media personalities like Teddy Boy Locsin marveled on the unprecedented and never-ending flow of people in that protest which lasted for days in different locations in Metro Manila. A wise observer would even take note of the fact that the INC members worldwide became more fervent in their activities in the midst of the persecution they are experiencing now. Proving that such moves against the Iglesia Ni Cristo did not even dent the faith of its members.
The article seeks to perpetuate the malicious accusation that INC uses its unity in exchange for favors from government officials. This is a lie. A propaganda disseminated by those who could never duplicate the unity of the INC.
The article also wrongly depicts that this is the first time that the Iglesia Ni Cristo faced dissenters among its ranks. A simple review of the Church’s history will show that there have been previous INC members and ministers who have been expelled from the Church because of their wrong beliefs and practices such as creating divisions in the Church. Some of them even formed their own religion. But the strength of the INC never dwindled instead it grew more stronger and continues to enjoy a parade of victories. The coming elections will only serve not as a stumbling block but a pedestal that will showcase the immutable unity of the INC.
The opponents of the INC should ponder on this fact: The Iglesia Ni Cristo in these last days never had it easy. It began during a time when the world is at war. It faced the giants of religion in the Philippines when the established religions back then wielded great influence in the government. It suffered intense persecution from the Japanese Army during the Second World War. It was threatened by insurgents (Huk,CPP/NPA), survived Martial Law and withstand revolutions (EDSA 1 and 2). Its members weathered numerous calamities and economic recessions. It buried not a few martyrs of the faith and even endured deaths of its former leaders. But as the Scriptures said “…all things work together for the good of those who love God-those whom he has called according to his plan…”(Romans 8:28 GW), so when the fog of war settled, the Iglesia ni Cristo emerged stronger than ever. And it will continue to do so because this is the work of God, and who can hinder?
(By: Anthony Peña)