Why do I spend more time reading insights of people who have studied the Bible rather then studying the Bible myself? Why are they capable of finding practical truth in the Bible but I have to find it through them? Why do I spend more time trading names of good authors and good book titles with friends rather then scripture references? If truth is... well the Bible then why go elsewhere so often for it?
Because it is easier. Because I know how to read a book but the Bible??? Because that is what is normal and what I have always done. Because everyone tells me of great books and yet few tell me of great insights in their study time in the Bible. Because I want to be spoon fed, it goes down easier. Because I think that others are more spiritual then I am. Because I want to obey the Bible and find many wise counselors Prov 15:22. Because I am insecure and want truth handed to me. Because I can't stay awake reading the Bible but some authors are really good at keeping my attention. Because books are so much more practical for today. Because I don't want to have to work at seeing what God is wanting to show me.
I think that perhaps I will try to spend a little more time reading the source and a little less time letting people tell what it says.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Finding Truth
Posted by Caleb at 1:20 PM
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5 comments:
Im right there with you Babe thus... getting rid of books :)
A verse came to me today for you babe regarding this...
1 John 2:26-27
Read it, I KNOW you will love it!
I went through a period of these same sentiments, Caleb, and can still identify with them somewhat. However, I ran into two major problems. One, we run the risk of deception. Here's why. Whether we like it or not, we read "books" every day. Every sermon preached is simply a book in oral form. It just hasn't been put on paper. In fact, many of the books you buy are actually that, compilations of sermons. Every discussion on spiritual matters is just another "book." The only way to avoid "books" is to totally cut oneself off from others. The cults are notorious for telling their people not to read anything outside their own literature, whether it be Watchtower publications, LDS literature, or just some preacher who thinks he has all the answers. Their people lose objectivity because rather than measuring what they hear by the Bible, they begin to understand the Bible by the only interpretations they allow themselves to hear.
Secondly (I found this in myself), it leads to spiritual arrogance. When I begin to think I cannot benefit from what my brothers have learned, I begin to think I am self-sufficient and am in need of nothing. That's pretty much what the church in Laodicea was saying.
Just a quick word on 1 John 2:26-27. Please don't tear these verses from the context of the rest of the book and the matters it is dealing with, otherwise the "anointing teaches you concerning all things" (v.27) would include quantum mechanics and how to play a musical instrument. Ephesians 4:11-12 and 1 Corinthians 12:28 indicates that we need each other to grow.
Having said all that, I admire your desire to saturate yourself in the Word. Try reading the Old Testament once and the New Testament twice every year. I have found it to be a valuable practice that continues to shape me for battle.
Your brother,
David Carson
David,
Thank you for the wisdom and insight. I didn't realize so many people were reading my blog. :) I agree fully with the fact that we need each other and that others have experiences and wisdom that exceed mine. My thoughts shared on the blog were more to myself then anyone else and it was in regard to the fact that I have recently been convicted that I am spending more time in books on the Bible then in the Bible and not that I am giving up books or insights. I have actually just ordered a couple more from Amazon over the weekend. I was just reflecting on the fact that I find myself using them as the majority of my Bible exposure rather then a seasoning to help. Thank you again for caring enough to post a thoughtful comment.
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