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NASB | John 7:17 "If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | John 7:17 "If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know whether the teaching is of God or whether I speak on My own accord and by My own authority. |
Bible Question:
John 16:13 tells us the Spirit of Truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth. We know it is true because GOD'S word says it. If we then have differing interpretations of GOD'S word, and assuming we are to rely on the Holy Spirit for the guidance, why would the Holy Spirit teach people totally different things on the same Scrpiture? Romans 14:5 also tells us, "Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind". Romans 2:15 says God's laws are written on our hearts. If further says in Matthew, Mark, and Luke that a kingdom divided against itself will not stand. With these scriptures in mind, can it be assumed the reason for the division among Christians is the fact that some are not being guided by the Holy Spirit - Spirit of Truth? I mean the really major issues like: Can you loose your salvation, Baptism being required for salvation, etc. I am a new Christian and amazed at the lack of unity regarding the interpretation of scripture. Any thoughts that can help? Please try to keep it simple, I have no formal education in any of this like it sounds that some of you have. Thanks Sam |
Bible Answer: Hello Sam, Welcome to the forum and to the family! There have been several good responses to your question. I just want to add to them by pointing something out. Debating the scriptures is not a bad thing if it is done responsibly in the spirit of love and with the goal of teaching and learning. It is often throuh debating the different understandings that we strive to dig deeper to gain better insight. But always remember. There is never, ever, more than one true interpretation of any scripture. The truth of scripture is what God said or what he inspired another to say or write down. The meaning is exactly what God meant. That truth and meaning might be applied in different ways to different circumstances, but the truth and meaning itself never changes. Don't be disturbed by not being able to get it all overnight. There are many on this forum who have been Christians and studying the word of God for many years. Not a one of us has it all. But believe that God will reveal His truth to you as you study and as you are prepared by Him to receive it. Hope this helps, Jeff |