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Look Both Ways Before Crossing

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. (Hebrews 12:13-14)

One day a pastor was busy writing his sermon when his little boy walked in and asked what he was doing. "I'm writing my message for the congregation, son". The child then asked: "Does God tell you what to say, Daddy?" The pastor replied, "of course He does!"- the youngster thought about that for a minute, then he asked: "Daddy, if God tells you what to say, then why do you keep crossing things out?"

By the way- why do we keep crossing things out? God does not give us the option of picking and choosing what we believe or don't believe from His word. Check out what Jesus said:

Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. (Matthew 24:35-36)

The statements of Scripture are not just words on a page or the ramblings of Jesus freaks. They are the living, breathing, powerful Word of God. In fact, billions of years from now when the world is the dust ball formerly known as earth, the Bible will be as relevant and authoritative as it was when it was written.

The Pharisees were really good at picking out what parts of Scripture they liked, and what parts to ignore. Jesus' strongest words were towards those who would dare do such a thing with the statements of His Father, and try to pass themselves off as true believers.

They were the first to tell you they knew God, but they were also the first to 'cross out' the uncomfortable parts of Scripture.

Are there verses in the Bible that make you uncomfortable? Many people have a mental marker when they read the Bible, and as soon as the sword of the Spirit slices into their spiritual mediocrity, the pen starts flying.

What does a marker look like? It's in your brain, and the ink comes in the form of thoughts like:

  • "Well, I'm glad that verse doesn't apply to me"
  • "I don't think the pastor translated that passage correctly"
  • "That command was only meant for the people back then"
  • "There is no way that God expects me to obey that"

Perhaps it's time to put down the permanent marker and open praying hands to God. The Bible is the ultimate truth in the universe; it is the final authority for thoughts and behavior. It is applicable in all places for all situations in all time periods. Rejecting Scripture is like pushing away a lifesaver after it has been thrown to you. Apply the Book of Books, and you will have best of life.

Questions:

  1. Do you tend to 'cross out' any part of Scripture?
  2. What is your least favorite command? Why?
  3. Are you a different person today because of the truth of Scripture? Why or why not?