Delbert, I once heard a theologian explain that the "hard" scriptures in the Bible were the ones we should pay particular attention to. I have found that when I look at the context and cross-reference and look at the larger picture, a strong teaching starts to emerge.
On a much earlier post, I shared from Dr.J. Edwin Orr who said that there are basically two kinds of sinners:
1) Ornery Sinners
These kind are cantankerous, never coming to the truth. They find excuses/reasons for their life-style that falls far short of the glory of God. Believe me, I once was the orneriest of sinners. My marriage was on the rocks, I was miserable and making life miserable for my entire family. I was at times suicidal, very depressed, easily discouraged, and looked on the bleak, dark side of life. My life was very superficial and artificial. I recall being in a confrontive argumentive conversation with a minister one day and assured him that his faith and life-style was futile and misguided!
2) Honest Sinners
These kind of sinnners are approachable and authentic with their fellow-man and in their quest for truth. Scripture tells us "They shall know the truth (Jesus) and the truth shall set them free." They can admit when they are wrong and are humble when they are right. Delbert, it took me a long time to become an honest sinner, but it was as though I awakened one day and saw the emptiness and meaninglessness of my life and slowly, but surely, I found the truth (or the truth found me) and the Truth set me free. Praise God. So, Delbert---keep on asking the "hard question" in integrity. And guess what. I think you know.
A Friend,
Jack |
