Jesus the first reformer: Questioning is key to Universal Church Renewal
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
Proddatur – Andhra Pradesh: Declaring that Jesus Christ was the first and greatest reformer in history, Dr. Bonkuri John, Founder of the Institute of Bible Technology (IBT – Hyderabad), said that the universal Church can be renewed only through sincere questioning rooted in Scripture. He was delivering the keynote address at a one-day seminar held on Thursday at Rabbuni Church, Prakash Nagar.
Jesus set the path of reform
Dr. John said the Bible records Jesus questioning religious authorities from the age of 12, establishing inquiry as the foundation of truth and reform. He noted that Christ challenged hypocrisy, traditions devoid of truth, and authority without righteousness, thereby setting an eternal model for reform.
Questioning shapes civilisation and faith
Explaining the role of questioning in human progress, Dr. John said science itself proves that mankind evolved through observation, inquiry, and research. He stressed that the same principle applies to spiritual growth, asserting that without questioning, faith becomes stagnant and ritualistic.
From Luther to Universal Church Reformation 2.0
Referring to Martin Luther’s challenge to medieval church authority, Dr. John described the Protestant movement as “Church Reformation 1.0.” He said that inspired by this legacy, IBT has been working for the past 32 years towards “Universal Church Reformation 2.0,” aimed at restoring biblical truth across denominations, despite resistance and opposition.
Scripture above personality cults
Dr. John warned against the rise of personality cults and unbiblical teachings, stating that God, faith, and truth are one, as declared by the Bible. He emphasised that any teaching contrary to Scripture amounts to heresy and must be rejected in the pursuit of genuine reform.
A call to imitate Christ, not just admire Him
He urged believers to move beyond admiration of Jesus, Peter, Paul, and early church leaders, and instead model their lives on Christ’s courage, obedience, and commitment to truth. True faith, he said, demands the willingness to unlearn falsehoods and live the Gospel authentically.
Earlier, Rabbuni Church leader Salla Sudhakar delivered the introductory address. Pastors, church leaders, and Sudhakar other members of the Institute of Bible Technology from various places participated in the seminar.
Books for spiritual growth
Books authored by Dr. Bonkuri John and Salla Sudhakar were distributed to participants to encourage deeper understanding of biblical truth, personal enlightenment, and meaningful church growth.
