Matthew 16:12 "Then they understood that he was not telling them to guard
against the yeast used in bread, but against the teaching of the Pharisees and
Sadducees." NIV
We just bought 2 baby goats but before we did so we inspected the corral very
carefully for any loops or holes which a curious little escape artist like a
baby goat could take advantage of, as goats are famous for finding a way, any
way to escape.
People also look for loopholes. They seek to discover ways to get out of paying
those parking tickets, or taking the blame, or evading taxes. It seems to simply
be a natural phenomenon among human beings which does not exclude Christians.
We live in a spiritual generation who love the saying: really, it's all just a
matter of interpretation after all, there are no absolutes everything is
relative. Too often Scripture is being twisted and turned by those seeking to
discover loopholes which allow them to do what they want to do rather than what
Scripture makes very clear, God would have us do. By doing so we are seeking to
develop a god of our own understanding instead of a true understanding of God. A
phenomenon that is breaking churches apart and driving wedges between
denominations.
Perhaps as God's people it would be good for us to do as the disciples did
before Pentecost: to gather together in one place and spend much time in prayer
until the Holy Spirit came upon them. Instead of distancing ourselves from one
another perhaps we need to choose to come together in humility and prayer and to
stay together until the Spirit leads us back into a true understanding of God
and the plan He has for His Church.
Prayer: Father God, draw us together once again as your people. Bless us with
your spirit of humility and grace that we might build upon a true interpretation
of your word and the plan you have for your Church: a plan that announces your
love to the world through the love of your people one for another. In Christ's
name we pray. Amen.
Lynne Phipps
Atlin, B.C.
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