The Jews had a very strong attachment to this material, flesh and blood realm. They believed that life was in the blood (Leviticus 17:11) and also that their sins could not be forgiven without the shedding of blood (Hebrews 9:22). They believed that God “visited the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation” (Numbers 14:18) (see What’s in Your DNA?).
Double-Mindedness or Stability
As I have already written in so many of these contemplations, I grew up in a very orthodox Church and family and took upon myself a concept of a God of wrath and judgment that struck terror in my soul. I spent over 50 years attempting to love this God and feel loved by Him. I didn’t dare question anything I had been taught because I was so frightened of being deceived.
What Is the Word of God?
The writer of the book of Hebrews says concerning the Word of God:
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick [living and active], and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
What is the Word of God that is so powerful? Is it the Bible?
Understanding
For many decades I read the Bible constantly, sometimes several times a year. But when God began to reveal to me alternative readings of Scripture (see Cost of Knowing Truth, Encouragement to Continue and But What About . . .?), I confess that I really ceased to read the Bible as I had previously. I would only read what God was bringing to my remembrance at the time. When I would read an entire book of the Bible, I would become confused and afraid as I attempted to understand what I was reading. So I spent a lot of my time reading and listening to those who didn’t have the orthodox upbringing that I had and who could see in all Scripture the “true God” that Jesus revealed and prayed that we would know.
Listening to the Holy Spirit
When Jesus was teaching, He would often say, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear
(Matthew 11:15).
In the letters to the seven churches recorded in the book of Revelation, the ascended Christ would end each letter with, He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches
(Chapters 2-3).
Authority of the Bible
We all know that every Christian —including me— quotes the Bible to confirm whatever he believes. We also know that beliefs which contradict each other can all be defended with Scripture. So what can we trust?
How Can I Know Truth?
Identity in Christ —Life or Doctrine?
John 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.
Jesus taught in parables or word pictures to convey spiritual truth —because words are never sufficient. God even had Ezekiel (ch 4) lie first on one side and then on the other as a parable to help the children of Israel understand what was happening in their lives. We all think in pictures as we attempt to get understanding. My picture will always be different from your picture.