If Ever A Place For Honesty
If ever there is a place for honesty it ought to exist in Biblical scholarship. I was reading one of the papers of condemnation published by our brethren. In the publication the author said, “The saints in Galatia had been influenced by false teachers. Paul wrote,” I marvel that you are so quickly removing from him that called you in the grace of Christ unto a different gospel; which is not another gospel; only there are some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ” (Gal. 1:6-7). We are faced with the same situation today.” This is an example of the real problem existing in our fellowship today. The author is condemning all who do not practice religion as he thinks it ought to be done. His statements go on to tell that those who seek to change his view of religion are change agents, with an agenda of change. He is using as proof text Galatians 1:6-7. In this text Paul is warning against allowing the Judaizing teachers to bind their culture and particularly circumcision on the churches of Galatia. If we are going to condemn others for practicing what we view as unbiblical, at the very least we ought to be correct and honest in our proof texts! Galatians 1:6-7 has absolutely nothing to do with the changes we see occurring in the church today.
Another of the favorite texts used by those who want to hold to the unwritten creed is 2 John 9-11. In the King James Version this text says, “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.” This section of Scripture has been used as a “monkey wrench passage”. It has been used with little or no regard for the context. In the context it is talking about those who refuse to acknowledge Christ as coming in the flesh. We have been all over the map on this section. Usually we are consistent with this Scripture applying it to anyone who does not agree with our particular version of truth.
On and on we could go with similar passages. All misapplied so we can hold the accepted doctrine together. It is past time for us to apply God’s Word with honesty. Rather that studying so we can defend the dogma, lets seek diligently for truth. Let’s apply the truths of God’s Word, as they actually exist rather than twisting Scripture to defend pre-determined positions! If there is ever a place for honesty it certainly ought to exist in Christians as we diligently seek Him.
