Which denominations (II) The “reality” I live in… Part 7

I have argued (Sunday December 1), that we cannot live without absolutes. We may not see that or want to admit it, but our actions betray us. In particular many show by intense and hostile criticism directed towards those who disagree, that for all practical purposes they regard their own ideas, values and “truths” as absolute. We discussed (Sunday again), that it is foolish to trust in our own heart and mind, in our own subjective opinions. The Christain World view, on the other hand, is based on the objective Word of God. As always, there is much to say here! But to start,let me say that my testimony, and the testimony of millions and millions down through the ages, is that faith in Christ, in His death and resurrection, and in His Word, this faith is a sure foundation, and an anchor for the soul (Hebrews 6:19).

But how can they and we, be so sure when there are so many different churches and denominations, often saying very different things? The first thing to say, is that among the denominations that hold a very high view of Scripture, the places where we agree far outweigh the places where we differ. As in all disagreements it is far too easy to major on minors! And expanding on what I claimed last day, through the hard work of interdenominational dialogue, Parachurch organizations have substantially identified the necessary nonnegotiable essentials for unity. The Parachurch organizations InterVarsity and Operation Mobilization (for example) agree on “The unique divine inspiration, entire trustworthiness, and authority of the Bible” (the InterVarsity version). Their respective statements can be Googled to verify this agreement.

As to the the Bible being objective truth, my first claim is that it is self verifying. We saw earlier examples of Old Testament prophecies that were fulfilled in the New (see 30 November’s post). In fact there are well over a hundred such prophecies fulfilled by Jesus. But there is much more to this self verification. J.B. Phillips speaks of the Bible’s “ring of truth.” The Bible itself, puts it this way “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). All this can be tested, the Bereans did! They were “more noble than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11). This example of the Bereans should challenge us to make the foundation of our faith secure. It is important to know that we have not believed cunningly devised fables (2 Peter 1:16). It is important to know not only what we believe, but why we believe what we do. This is part of what it means to love the Lord with our mind!

Father, there is no such thing as a perfect church or denomination. But there are a number of things we need to be sure of before we commit ourselves to any particular congregation. And first and foremost is to make sure that the Word of God is held in very high regard. When this is not the case, we are likely to pick and choose what we believe. Many do! And when we do this, then inevitably we are adrift on a sea of relativity, where we can be sure of nothing. We need an anchor Father for our soul, thank You Lord for the assurance, for the peace, for getting ever closer to You, and to life in all its fullness when we trust in You and Your Word in Jesus Name Amen