Subject: Studying O.T. is creating problems. |
Bible Note: Ideas on how to grow. Hello Free Thinker. I haven't entered conversation with you yet, but have listened in a little. I hope you will keep seeking -- and I have found this forum to be a helpful element for me... There can be "argument" -- and I've contributed some of that myself, I guess -- but there is also a love of the Bible that is encouraging. I think the format of this forum can tend to focus on the smaller issues - and this can contribute to argumentiveness. Apparent contradictions in the text, rival interpretations of the book of Revelation, who married who after Adam and Eve.... These questions can bog me down, and probably you as well. I encourage you to seek the big questions. Who does Jesus claim to be? What does it mean to be a disciple? How can I open myself to God's love? Also, I find it best to pray even amid doubts. Perhaps that sounds "hypocritical" to you, but it's not. We don't need to have it all figured out -- God understands our state of confusion. We need God's help to figure it out! So I often pray a prayer found in the gospel of Mark: "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief." (Mark 9:24) I have two more thoughts to offer. First, it is good to get a systematic sense of what Christianity is -- and books are better than this website for that. The forum encourages us to bounce from topic to topic -- which is good in some ways, but doesn't get very deep. So I encourage you to read the book mommapbs mentioned (Evidence that demands a verdict). John Stott could be another author to look at. Secondly -- if you have a Christian friend you feel comfortable talking to face to face -- that is so much more fun and deep than the forum. I have loved being in weekly Bible studies, where tough questions can be asked -- and people are ready to live what they learn. I am sure there is a group like this meeting near where you live --- pretty much anywhere in the world! Just dig a little, and you'll find one. I hope you don't think I am discouraging you from the Forum. It's just that I sense your real hunger -- and I too am hungry -- and so I'm sharing some ideas about how to grow. Ask the big questions through prayer, books, and studying in community. From my experience, I'd say that God is pursuing you, even as you are seeking God. Peace. |