How many angels can fit on the head of a pin? Did Adam have a belly button? Absurd questions to say the least, but similar ridiculous questions have been the focus of animated discussion and study among believers. Yes, they are biblical topics, but are they profitable for study and discussion?
The Apostle Paul directed Timothy to squelch pointless and unproductive biblical discussion in saying, "solemnly charge them in the presence of God not to wrangle about words, which is useless and leads to the ruin of the hearers" (2 Timothy 2:14). Instead, he positively issued the challenge to "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:14-15). Rather than digressing in to pointless discussions about biblical minutia, we are challenged to stay focused in study and discussion on that which is profitable.
Paul earlier stated the goal of genuine and profitable Bible teaching in saying, "the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith" (1 Timothy 1:5). This is the standard by which all Bible teaching and discussion must be measured. If pure love, a clear conscience and genuine faith are not resulting then the value of the study and teaching is questionable.
I've been in far too many profitless Bible discussions. The topic might as well have been politics or sports because the same aggressive one-upmanship tactics were in play. The objective was not truth but rather manipulation and coercion. The results all too often have been anger, division and distrust. All in the name of Scripture!
Few things are more precious than sincere believers gathering for study and discussion with the goal of growth in truth and conduct. These are gatherings that our Savior blesses with His presence and with insight through Holy Spirit (John 14:26).
The challenge before us is to make sure that our study and discussions don't "major in minors", but instead focus on essentials in building love, conduct and faith. For this reason I believe it is always profitable to consider our great hope of the Kingdom of God, entrance into it only through resurrection, and the nature of our King, Jesus, and His heavenly Father. A sincere desire to discover truth in these areas will result in the essential qualities which Paul speaks of in 1 Timothy 1:5.
May this day be filled with opportunities for profitable study and discussion.
Steve
The Apostle Paul directed Timothy to squelch pointless and unproductive biblical discussion in saying, "solemnly charge them in the presence of God not to wrangle about words, which is useless and leads to the ruin of the hearers" (2 Timothy 2:14). Instead, he positively issued the challenge to "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:14-15). Rather than digressing in to pointless discussions about biblical minutia, we are challenged to stay focused in study and discussion on that which is profitable.
Paul earlier stated the goal of genuine and profitable Bible teaching in saying, "the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith" (1 Timothy 1:5). This is the standard by which all Bible teaching and discussion must be measured. If pure love, a clear conscience and genuine faith are not resulting then the value of the study and teaching is questionable.
I've been in far too many profitless Bible discussions. The topic might as well have been politics or sports because the same aggressive one-upmanship tactics were in play. The objective was not truth but rather manipulation and coercion. The results all too often have been anger, division and distrust. All in the name of Scripture!
Few things are more precious than sincere believers gathering for study and discussion with the goal of growth in truth and conduct. These are gatherings that our Savior blesses with His presence and with insight through Holy Spirit (John 14:26).
The challenge before us is to make sure that our study and discussions don't "major in minors", but instead focus on essentials in building love, conduct and faith. For this reason I believe it is always profitable to consider our great hope of the Kingdom of God, entrance into it only through resurrection, and the nature of our King, Jesus, and His heavenly Father. A sincere desire to discover truth in these areas will result in the essential qualities which Paul speaks of in 1 Timothy 1:5.
May this day be filled with opportunities for profitable study and discussion.
Steve
posted by steve @ 10:06 AM
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