We have different ways of expressing the high place that scripture has in the life of a believer. The vocabulary is varied. We talk about being inspired. That is in the Bible. We talk about being infallible. That is not in the Bible. You have heard of inerrancy? It is not a Biblical vocabulary word. We talk about it being without error. It is not expressed that way in the Bible.
The Bible is inspired. It was given to us for our salvation. It is not a science textbook nor a math table. It is not even a history textbook. It is a book that God has given us, so that we can know what we need to know in order to live as He would have us live.
When it comes to understanding Paul, or other authors in the Bible, we tend to put them on pedestals and make them idols. We tend to deify them. We forget that they are human beings like us, and God has to use us as human beings. That means personalities and feelings will often show through. We need to keep that in mind when we read Paul’s letters.
Christians believe the Bible gives them truth. It is sometimes crystal clear. How hard is it to understand “Do not steal”? Sometimes it requires a bit of study. Sometimes you can study for ever and not be getting close, eschatology anyone? It is still truth and has values that do not change with every whim of culture or theology.
I have a suggestion. Consider the source. Put away your books about the Bible and start reading the original source.
homo unius libri
Friday, May 17, 2024
Opus 2024-119: An Adjective for the Bible
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Comments are welcome. Feel free to agree or disagree but keep it clean, courteous and short. I heard some shorthand on a podcast: TLDR, Too long, didn't read.