Subject: salvation |
Bible Note: Dear Dr. Steeno, You asked, "Is it the words that are valuable, or the thought behind the words that is valuable?" (sic) This is what is called a false dichotomy. Words without thoughts are as useless as thoughts without words. The doctrine of the verbal plenary inspiration of the Word emphasizes that each jot and tittle has a Providential purpose. This is why Paul can base an entire theological argument on whether a Hebrew word is plural or not (Galatians 3:16). In Greek, "word" (logos) carries along with it the same thought as the English word "logic," from which it is derived. Only in a more visceral language, like English or Hebrew, can you ask a question like the one you posed without it sounding utterly silly. If words mattered more than thoughts, or vice versa, there would be little value in interacting on a forum like this one. The fundamental presupposition of this forum -- and those who join -- is the doctrine of sola Scriptura. Furthermore, the Word of God is not equivalent to the mind of God. God reveals truth to men in two ways: general revelation (what they see about them) and special revelation (the Word of God comprising the Old and New Testaments as originally penned). God has not revealed everything about Himself or about creation (Deuteronomy 29:29). All of Scripture is true, but not all truth is in Scripture. In Him, Doc |