Far to many Christians just don't read the Scriptures as often, as thoroughly, or with as much contemplation as they really should - in my opinion. I love the Scriptures. I can't seem to get enough of the Bible. I am continually awed by it.
So, why isn't everyone, every Christian at least, similarly and sufficiently intrigued by Scripture to make it their priority study?
One of the reasons is that we have been taught thread it wrongly, again in my opinion. Many years ago a bible teacher asked me if I thought the authors of scripture were God's penmen or his pen. At first I didn't see any significant difference. In fact it took me many years to really comprehend what this teacher meant.
If the authors of scripture were the 'pen' of God, then the words would be exactly His words. Alternatively, if they were His 'penmen' then they wrote in their own words about the experiences they had with God. The former leaves little room for interpretation - is as it was written. The latter, though, introduces personal flavoring and invites interpretation, even 'wrestling' with God over the various idea expressed. The first becomes a checklist of do's and don'ts. The second, permission to engage in a unique walk with the very personal God. The former requires the readers to see in black and white and to remain within the lines. The latter is a Spirit engaged exercise open to coloring even outside the lines.
How do you read scripture? Does your understanding of the nature of inspiration draw you into a closer and increasingly exciting relationship with the Divine One?
0 comments:
Post a Comment