Jamie Swann has picked this conversation up on her blog.
She really put the question to the test when she said, "I think perhaps that the question we should be asking is “Is God Central To All Life’s Problems?" I love that!
Here's how I would respond to that.
Being a pastor, I am called on to counsel with individuals, families, friends, etc...quite frequently. Without fail, before every meeting I ask myself what can I share with them about their situation/problem that will really make a lasting impact in their lives? The fact is, only one thing will make a lasting change in our lives, God. I always point people to God's word for clarity and direction on their issue. The Bible speaks if we'll choose to listen. But it isn't just the text of the Bible that we should be steering them toward. Greater than the text is the author of the text. The connection with God's word is necessary but connection with God is more necessary. Though I essentially hold that the God and His word are inseparable, I agree fully with Jamie's question...I believe God Is Central To All Life's Problems!
5 comments:
Shannon,
I guess the next question we should ponder is how in the world can we get people to connect with God through Scripture....
:)
Jamie
Jamie,
I have a theory. If we who support the Scripture as God authorized and inspired "live" out the text in relevance to our culture, I think we'll be well on the way to at least demonstrating how to connect with God. Even Jesus had this task to complete. His utmost task was to show us God through his own words and deeds. He effectively mirrored to the world the very nature of God. We should feel honored to have such a lofty mandate as to show Jesus to the world through how we live out the scriptures.
I find your statement about pointing people to the God of the Bible as very helpful.The Scriptures represent God's Holy Words revealed to humanity, but their purpose is to draw the eyes of humanity toward the God who uttered them, in understanding and truth.
Colin,
To me, there is a huge awe factor in realizing that truth. It's a huge responsibility helping and encouraging someone make a connection with God. At times, it's very intimidating. I feel that even Jesus from time to time struggled with it. He even prayed for His disciples that they would be one as He and the Father are one...this to me is an earnest prayer for connection. Jesus needed to show them what it meant to be one(connected)with the Father.
Shannon,
Well said!
Jamie
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