People quarrel over the idea of perfection as expressed in the Bible. Some say no such thing is possible. Check out these two verses, one in the OT and one in the NT. The word “perfect” appears in both the KJV and NASB,
(Psa 19:7 KJV) The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.The problem is not that this perfection is impossible. The problem is using our cultural definitions of a word rather than seeking to understand how it is used in the Bible.
(1Jn 4:18 KJV) There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
I am sitting outside this morning and, to be honest, it is a perfect morning. It is positively awesome. There is a refreshing breeze and I’m told it’s about 73°. It is a perfect morning.
Yesterday was also a perfect morning. I am told it was 71°. It was a very light breeze. It was a perfect morning.
I can go on like this. There are numerous perfect mornings and yet each one is different. Why do we have so much trouble with his word perfect? We know in our hearts what it means. Why do people refuse to accept it? Much of the problem is beginning with a theology that says there is no such thing as perfect in spite of the examples of the word.
Another word we have trouble with is “sovereign”. We have trouble with the conflict between the idea of God, being omnipotent, and us having free will. We have the trouble with so many other issues. Lighten up, broaden your mind, think. The universe is beyond you. God never said you would understand every mystery. He also gives you permission to contribute crazy ideas that might answer the paradox.
Who knows, you might get lucky and be right.
homo unius libri
No comments:
Post a Comment
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.