Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the historical references and Biblical context, David. It definitely helps me understand your perspective as why you said once, “I don’t worship the Bible.” While I believe that the written word in the Bible reflects the mind of God, your words remind me that no man is perfect and God used imperfect people. That said, while no one can put a limit on God’s ability or power, it is a valiant effort to make known the true meaning of God’s existence, creation, and purpose. I am reminded of the proverbial words: If you don’t believe in something, you will fall for anything. When I went to look up the exact words, I found similar inconsistencies albeit on a surface level by contrast to what you described here regarding the Biblical translations over time. The president Alexander Hamilton is often attributed to the quote, “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.” Yet a quick Google search reveals that there was different Alex Hamilton in 1978 who said it. Read more here: https://quoteinvestigator.com/2014/02/18/stand-fall/?amp=1
Bottomline, God’s way and plans cannot be contained, yet I find solace in knowing that my relationship with Him guides my actions and paths. He is the ultimate Shepherd and guide for my life. I find that fellowship with others in an organized setting provide me a sense of peace, purpose, comfort, and confidence that I will continue to attend church services and be a part of something bigger than myself. All that God is will continue to be a mystery He is slowly unfolding in my walk with Him.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the historical references and Biblical context, David. It definitely helps me understand your perspective as why you said once, “I don’t worship the Bible.” While I believe that the written word in the Bible reflects the mind of God, your words remind me that no man is perfect and God used imperfect people. That said, while no one can put a limit on God’s ability or power, it is a valiant effort to make known the true meaning of God’s existence, creation, and purpose. I am reminded of the proverbial words: If you don’t believe in something, you will fall for anything. When I went to look up the exact words, I found similar inconsistencies albeit on a surface level by contrast to what you described here regarding the Biblical translations over time. The president Alexander Hamilton is often attributed to the quote, “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.” Yet a quick Google search reveals that there was different Alex Hamilton in 1978 who said it. Read more here: https://quoteinvestigator.com/2014/02/18/stand-fall/?amp=1
Bottomline, God’s way and plans cannot be contained, yet I find solace in knowing that my relationship with Him guides my actions and paths. He is the ultimate Shepherd and guide for my life. I find that fellowship with others in an organized setting provide me a sense of peace, purpose, comfort, and confidence that I will continue to attend church services and be a part of something bigger than myself. All that God is will continue to be a mystery He is slowly unfolding in my walk with Him.
I'm glad you dared to read this :) Distinguishing God from the Bible was one of the hardest, and most liberating, discoveries of my life.
Extremely well written and spoken, David. You are a true inspiration my friend.
Thanks, Dave!