I have heard the phrase "bible believing Christian" and "bible believing church" a number of times recently. I am wondering - Is there a more self-serving phrase in all of Christendom? Does it not really translate as - "These folks get juiced up over the same verses that I do!"I am finding it difficult to lend any credibility to someone who would use such a phrase. I want to remain open to learn from all, but such a statement is very telling about the individual making it. It strikes me that the person wants to speak with authority.... but they don't want to go through the tedious process of earning it.
Is there anyone other than the guy who wrote "The Year of Living Biblically" who can claim to REALLY be "bible believing"? Typically, someone who would use the phrase "bible believing" believes that many Christians aren't "real" Christians. They would say that most cherry pick or ignore parts of scripture... whereas they take it at face value - The bible said it, I believe it, that settles it.
Of course, even a cursory examination of their closet - with its multiple coats - lets us know that they don't take the bible all that seriously.
Luke 10:25-26
25On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
26"What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"
I make a motion that the phrase "bible believing" be removed from Christian vernacular. Instead, like Jesus, let's see if others are reading things a little differently and discover what we might learn.
8 comments:
I'll second the motion.
Me three.
Bruce
Verily, am I in.
I couldn't be more in on this one. It seems to me that statements like that are reflective of a defense mechanism. It is indicative of a certain mindset that has unfortunately been within Christianity since its inception and needs to be expunged. From the social difficulties even reflected in the New Testament, to the Albigensian Crusade upon the Christians of southern France, and the attitudes of the majority during the Catholic/Protestant split. Unfortunately attitudes of self righteousness are just as easy to find within Christian circles as it is circles of wealthy CEO's.
I have echoed it and said it before in an earlier part of my life. You are right, I repent of all its sectarian implications. That God said it, I believe it sign sits on our message board, it has very dispensational roots I think, and is one of the most boastful sounding phrases I have ever seen.
Thank you gentleman, motion carried! ;)
John - One of your posts this week got my Muse goin on this one. Thanks!
Welcome Tommy and Don!
Don, I see that you transplanted to Arizona... where from? I am a fairly recent transplant to Salt Lake from Detroit. I love living out West!
18 years ago, to work in new church development from Mississippi. The thing is, the Bible Belt leaves a lasting imprint on all things Christian.
I am working with seniors and trying to be honest with the change in my understanding of the gospel to UR. Your thoughts on the subject are so helpful.
So shall it be done!
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