My pride often gets in the way of my own ability to read the scriptures as they are intended-as a change agent for my heart. So often I read the bible to find some fact there I didn't know or just to appease my conscience. Here are two major problems with the way many have viewed scripture (including myself).
First, is the idea that the bible is only a story. This idea rings true with the younger generation. It's a compilation of good people, stories, good morals, and a good man. None of this really means anything however, since we are saved by grace, and seeing how it is only as story, one can live however they please. Further, we can love Jesus without really adhering to the style of life he calls us to or belonging to a church.
Conversely, the second, stems from viewing the scriptures themselves as being the thing that saves us. This view includes all the stories, but puts much more emphasis on the what the words say and how exactly they say it. Further, if we adhere to each one of the laws in the bible properly, we are saved through moral living.
Neither one of these views are correct on their own. It is only when we view the bible as a story of God's redemptive love (one that knows what's best for us) for his people, both of these views begin to align themselves. The abusers of God's grace begin to see he has standards, and those addicted to the law begin to see his grace. When these views align themselves, the word of God truly sets us free. Free from judgement of others, free from slavery to sin, and free to experience the teachable grace of God.
No comments:
Post a Comment