I’ve always thought that I could get through just about anything if the Lord would tell me what the outcome would be. I believe that “all things work together for good” in the end (Rom. 8:28), but I’d do a lot better in dark times if I knew exactly what the “good” would look like.
But God usually doesn’t show us where He is taking us. He just asks us to trust Him. It’s like driving a car at night. Our headlights never shine all the way to our destination; they illuminate only about 160 feet ahead. But that doesn’t deter us from moving forward. We trust our headlights. All we really need is enough light to keep moving forward.
God’s Word is like headlights in dark times. It is full of promises we need to keep us from driving our lives into the ditch of bitterness and despair. His Word promises that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Heb. 13:5). His Word assures us that He knows the plans He has for us, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give us “a future and a hope” (Jer. 29:11). And He tells us that our trials are there to make us better, not bitter (James 1:2-4).
So the next time you feel as if you’re driving in the dark, remember to trust your headlights—God’s Word will light your way.
The Word of God provides the light We need to see the way; It shows us what we need to know So we won’t go astray. —Sper
You won’t stumble in the dark if you walk in the light of God’s Word.
The gospel of Mark is the most translated book of the Bible in all the world. No other book appears in as many languages. Almost all Wycliffe translators, after they have reduced a language to writing, begin their translation of the Scriptures with this gospel. I am sure that the fact that Mark is the shortest of the gospels has something to do with that decision! But it is also a fact that Mark is particularly suitable for introducing people of all backgrounds, classes, and tribes to the Scriptures. It is the one gospel of the four that is aimed at the Gentile ear.
A study of the gospel of Matthew reveals that it is written for the Jew, especially with its focus on the Old Testament and Jewish customs. But Mark was written for the Roman world, for the Gentile, for those who do not know the background of the Old Testament. Therefore, it is an instructive and helpful gospel to use in the initial approach.
Many scholars think that the gospel of Mark is the earliest New Testament Scripture we have. It was probably written sometime in the sixties of the first century, which would make it very early, going back to the beginnings of the Christian story. Scholars differ, however, as to whether Matthew or Mark wrote first, because it is hard to tell who borrowed from whom—Matthew from Mark, or Mark from Matthew.
We do know that this gospel was written by a young man named John Mark. His mother was named Mary, and she was a rather wealthy woman who had a big house in Jerusalem. In Acts 12, we are told that the early disciples held a large church prayer meeting in her house for Peter when he was imprisoned. We know that young John Mark was taken by Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey, traveling with them to the island of Cyprus. But for some reason Mark refused to go with them when they went on to the mainland of what today is Turkey. Instead, he went back to his mother's house. Paul was upset about that and evidently felt that Mark was a quitter. When it came time for them to go out again, although Barnabas wanted to bring Mark, Paul would not let him come. So they separated. Barnabas took Mark with him to Cyprus, and Paul and Silas went back to the areas where they had gone before. Then Mark drops out of sight for a time.
The next we hear of him, he is an associate of the apostle Peter, who speaks affectionately of this young man, calling him "my son Mark" in his first letter (1 Peter 5:13). Early church tradition tells us that Mark became the companion of Peter. Eusebius, a church father writing in the third century, says that the early Christians were so entranced with all the things Peter told them that they asked Mark to write them down. Perhaps that is how we got the Gospel According to Mark, for it reflects much of Peter's memories and experiences with Jesus.
Mark is fascinated with two qualities of Jesus that he gives to us in the first words of this gospel: "The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God" (Mark 1:1). Jesus of Nazareth, a carpenter, the human Jesus—but also the Son of God, the divine one. Mark seems to be fascinated by that combination: the Ruler who manifests His ability to serve, and the Servant who knows how to rule.
That, by the way, is how the book is organized. Mark is easy to outline, because the author gives us certain natural divisions, as we will see as we go along. It falls readily into two halves.
“But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.”
Luke 6:27-28
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day has been a holiday of controversy since it was first recognized by President Ronald Reagan, on November 2, 1983. Although it was passed by Congress by an overwhelming 338 to 90 in the House of Representatives and 78 to 22 in the Senate, there were a number of states that chose not to observe the holiday. It was not until January 2000, the holiday was observed by all the states.
You may ask, “Why is this important?” I believe the importance lies in what Jesus was teaching in the verses above. We are to love our enemies. We are to love those who oppose us. Jesus taught us, it is easy to love our friends and families, but the true measure of our love is whether we love our enemies.
Whether you like or dislike Martin Luther King, Jr., we can all recognize him as a man who chose to love his enemies. He was a man who chose to follow the teachings of Christ. He was a man who served the people.
Many know him as the social activist who opposed racial discrimination, but many do not know the Christian man. King, Jr. was the pastor at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. It is obvious he was greatly influenced by his walk with the Lord and his study of the Bible, as his speeches often reflect the teaching style of Jesus.
Throughout the years, many things will be said of King, Jr., but his love for all people and his service to his community will always be remembered. How will you be remembered?
I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear. -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.-
Love and Trust are the solvents for the worry and cares and frets of a life.
Silence. Be silent before Me. Seek to know, and then to do My will in all things.
Abide in My Love. An atmosphere of loving understanding to all men. This your part to carry out, and then I surround you with a protective screen that keeps all evil from you. It is fashioned by your own attitude of mind, words, and deeds, towards others.
I want to give you all things, good measure, pressed down and running over. Be quick to learn. You know little yet of the Divine Impatience which longs to rush to give. Does one worrying thought enter your mind, one impatient thought? Fight it at once.
Love and Trust are the solvents for the worry and cares and frets of a life. Apply them at once. You are channels and though the channel may not be altogether blocked, fret and impatience and worry corrode, and in time would become beyond your help.
Persevere, oh! persevere. Never lose heart. All is well.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." - Proverbs 3:5,6
blessings to you and yours this day and always ...
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Now to Him who is able to keep you from falling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. Jude 1:24-25
Q and A is your opportunity to ask questions regarding the Bible, church, or just about anything regarding Christian faith and life. Submit questions on the response form in your bulletin or E-mail the Church Office.
How Do I Parent My Strong-Willed Child?
Posted @ 3/26/2010 2:38 PM By Melissa Bent Posted in [Parenting] | 0 Comments
The short answer is – by being a strong-willed parent! Too many parents are weak-willed and allow the stubbornness of their child to discourage them from their task of parenting. While I certainly understand that some kids can test the limits of even the most committed parent, the simple truth is – you are still the parent, and that “future leader” of yours desperately needs you to be in charge – whether they seem to like it or not! They need relationship; they need boundaries; they need consistency; and…they need creativity.
How to build relationship
This takes both quality and quantity time. Someone has rightly observed that the way you spell love is, T.I.M.E. I realize that this is not a popular message in a culture where exhausted parents are so busy. Again, someone has wisely pointed out that busyness may be an indication that you are Bound Under Satan’s Yoke! If hearing this makes you “squirm” a bit, please understand that it’s not intended to discourage or condemn, but rather, to challenge. The simple truth is ALL of us have a tendency to get our priorities “out of whack”! A little self-evaluation is perfectly healthy and even necessary in family life, because we are prone to distraction. We often substitute what is best for that which seems good. Here is a list of ideas that may help return some balance to your parenting, while building relationship with your child:
Address their physical needs. Make sure that your child is living a healthy lifestyle with a good, balanced diet, plenty of exercise and rest. Maintain an additional balance of hard work (chores) and hard play! Keep in mind that children do need an outlet for all of that boundless, God-given energy and creativity. I believe that some of what passes today as “ADHD”-like behavior may simply be kids acting like kids!
Note: I say this respectfully and with full awareness that there are, no doubt, some situations where a child may have genuine medical issues. In such cases, medical solutions would be in order. If you suspect this to be the case, get your child in for a physical evaluation. However, even in such cases, your child-training techniques should also be addressed.
Stop “entertaining” them to death! Turn off the T.V. and video games, play interactive games, and do more “hands on” activities together that facilitate conversation and the building of relationship.
Adjust your expectations up or down, as necessary. Some parents are simply ignorant about what their child is capable of. Kids are usually capable of a lot more than we give them credit for, but it means that we must take the time to teach and train. On the other hand, you may be demanding something of them that they simply aren’t ready for. How do you know which way to adjust your expectations? If you are a parent of fairly young children, one of the simplest ways might be to talk with an older, more experienced parent. However, there is just no substitute for consistent training. You must spend time doing things together, being intentional about teaching your child. As you do, you will get a good idea of what their true needs and abilities are.
Be patient in the process of training. Many parents unrealistically expect their child to automatically behave themselves just because they “said so”! Telling a strong-willed child to behave isn’t enough. Don’t waste precious time and energy being the threatening and repeating parent. You have to back up your instruction with clear boundaries, training, and discipline. Boundaries protect and define your child’s freedom. Training gives them the consistent and much-needed practice at doing what’s right. Discipline helps them learn from life. They experience consequences that instill character and teach life skills when they’ve done what’s wrong.
Do chores together with them. Discuss the values of being a good worker, as well as the benefits and satisfaction of a job well done. Much of what I learned from my mother while growing up, I learned as we simply talked about life while working side-by-side. This is how she passed on her values and wisdom, and much of the time, probably without even knowing it! It’s true – often times “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop”. By working together with your strong-willed child, you keep their minds and bodies busy in positive and productive ways, protecting them from temptations that abound when they are “bored”. Furthermore, the Bible teaches that “…perseverance…leads to proven character” (Rom. 5:1-2). Sometimes the perseverance and proven character (e.g. willingness to cooperate) that your child needs is best learned through hard work. Sometimes it is enjoyable, other times it’s not, but either way – it provides a wonderful training ground for that child who is a challenge.
Give them age-appropriate responsibility & freedom. This is especially important for building character, confidence, and trust in your child. Freedom and responsibility go together. This gives your child a sense of adventure and hope for their future. It also builds relationship over time because it communicates “I believe in you” to your child.
Praise them for what they do well, but avoid mere “flattery”. Sometimes, in an effort to give positive affirmation, parents go “overboard” with too much praise and it only tempts a child to be more selfish and demanding. On the other hand, your kids need to hear that you are pleased with them. “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” (Proverbs 25:11).
Praise them for good character more than performance. Examples might be: self-control, kindness, sensitivity, hard work, gentleness, honesty, contentment, gratitude, cooperation, and responsibility. Rather than focusing on things like “Straight A’s”, you might say something like,“Wow! That’s excellent, honey! These grades reflect that you not only understand your subjects in school, but you understand the importance of hard work and responsibility. You are really growing up! With that kind of attitude, you will do well in life.”
Practice doing things for others. Observe and discuss how people respond when we are kind, considerate and gentle toward them. The joy and gratitude of others when we do what’s right is a reward in itself. Though strong-willed children often seem not to care about what others think (and, in fact, at first, they may not) – practice doing the right thing, over time, will influence what they believe in their hearts. Eventually, they learn (through consistent training) to care, and find joy in doing so.
Give regular physical affection. Sometimes this means holding your child in your lap while quietly rocking them in your favorite chair. Other times, silliness, tickling, or “horsey rides” are just what a strong-willed child needs. Probably, a bit of both are necessary. For older kids, it might be a gentle back scratch while you pray for them and tuck them into bed at night, or a spontaneous shoulder rub while they’re sitting at the computer doing their homework. Some kids leave the impression that they don’t want or need any kind of healthy touch or affection. Depending upon the child, and their experiences in life, you may have to respect certain “boundaries”; however, in most cases a strong-willed child (or any child, for that matter) needs regular displays of affection. It contributes to their overall sense of security and well-being. For some, the lack of physical affection is part of the reason they are acting out in negative ways for attention.
Read, listen to, and tell stories to them. For young ones, allow them some freedom to move as long as they are listening, and aren’t doing things to be obnoxious or overly distracting. Choose colorful, interesting stories and characters with exciting plots and good themes. A terrific resource on CD that we’ve enjoyed over the years is the “Adventures in Odyssey” series from Focus on the Family. Include true stories from your own life! These will become great teaching tools as your children grow, but they also help build trust and relationship.
Prepare and enjoy meals together. It doesn’t have to be elaborate, and don’t make a big deal of “messes”. It’s been said, “More meals are ruined at the table than at the stove.” Remember, “We don’t cry over spilled milk”, and manners, though important, shouldn’t be the main focus at mealtime. Make a big deal of what they prepare, even if it’s not quite “gourmet”! I recommend “Google” as a resource for spontaneous “knock-knock” jokes and other funny stories that you can bring to the dinner table. The point is – make mealtimes fun! It will get your kids talking, and ultimately help build closeness in family life.
Enjoy and laugh with your children!Hint: part of this has to do with your attitude; the other part has to do with your training. You only have one shot at raising your kids – don’t miss it! Every parent faces a set of challenges. Don’t let those challenges steal your joy, but rather, embrace them. Furthermore, if you are lazy in the training department, don’t be surprised if your children aren’t very enjoyable to be around. Well-trained children are easy to enjoy, and joyful, attentive parents are much easier to obey and honor.
Have a regular, special bedtime routine. Read the Bible to them at bedtime, pray together, and tuck them in. This is a great time for snuggles, kisses and hugs, and back scratches. Honestly, some of my most precious moments as a father, have come during this time. I wouldn’t trade it for world, and it’s sad to me that so many parents miss this opportunity to connect with their child’s heart.
Have regular “Family Nights”. Depending on the family schedule, this might work out to be each week or once a month, but do something on a regular basis where you carve out time to simply be together as a family. Play games, make cookies or pop-corn, and watch movies with good, redemptive themes. When it comes to games, our personal family favorite is “Hide-n-Seek” in the dark! A bit risky, but good times for sure!
Step into your child’s world. Take time to notice what they enjoy, and set aside time every so often to simply do that with them – even if it’s not something you particularly enjoy. It communicates honor and builds relationship. It says, “I value you”. If you’ve never done this, it might be just the thing that helps your strong-willed child begin to open up and become more cooperative. Remember, it’s all about relationship.
How to set boundaries
Evaluate and adjust (where necessary) your own life’s example. Pay attention to the “freedoms” you have, which may actually be compromises that confuse your child. The point is – don’t live a life of inconsistency or hypocrisy. If you want your child to share your values, then demonstrate values worth sharing! This will give you much more credibility in their eyes when you set boundaries for them. When parents adopt a “Do as I say, not as I do” approach to parenting, they foolishly provoke their children to anger, and ultimately train them to live by that same double-standard.
Develop a plan that is both flexible and timeless. The plan needs to be flexible in the sense that it can be adjusted or “customized” to fit the needs of each child as they grow. Obviously, boundaries have to be changed as our children enter new stages and demonstrate maturity in different areas of life. However, the plan also needs to be timeless in the sense that it is rooted in biblical principles. God’s nature doesn’t change, nor does the truth in His Word. Our parenting plan should always be, in one way or another, a reflection of how God “parents” us. As already mentioned, strong-willed kids need stronger-willed parents! This simply means that we remain anchored in God’s Word, and vigilant in our commitment to represent Him in all that we do. Be as gentle as possible, but as firm as necessary!
Write down some simple family rules. Post them in a visible place for quick, easy reference and reminders – for you and the kids. I recommend a short list of rules that “covers all the bases”. For example: 1. Obey and honor. 2. Be Kind. 3. Respect others. These rules form an “umbrella” that nearly all behaviors and attitudes will fit under. Keep in mind, rules without relationship lead to rebellion.
Note: Help your children understand their basic job description biblically: obey & honor (Eph. 6:1-3). Obedience demonstrates respectfor the parent’spositionof authority. Honor demonstrates valuefor thepersonin authority. Obedience deals with behavior while honor deals with the heart of your child.
Have a Family Meeting. Clearly communicate any changes or new direction you are making as a family. It’s unfair to “change the rules in the middle of the game”. Keep the meeting short and simple, while fostering a sense of “teamwork” and family identity. Help them understand how these changes will both honor God and bless each member of the family. Give kids the opportunity to share, but don’t allow them to manipulate, intimidate, or distract you from your goal.
How to maintain consistency
There are two factors that have the greatest influence on whether or not you keep this “cardinal rule” of parenting. The first one is your relationship with Christ; the second is your own personal discipline.
When it comes to parenting a strong-willed child, your willingness to persevere must be motivated by something or Someone greater than yourself. The Bible reassures you that God has given youeverything you need for the task at hand (2 Peter 1:3-4). However, the supernatural resources the Lord promises are available only as you are rightly related to Him.
It is only as you nurture your relationship with Him (through regular prayer and meditation in His Word) that you will find the resources you need to be an effective parent. You don’t need another “checklist” of things to do! Your greatest need is Jesus Himself, and your ability to faithfully love and train your strong-willed child depends upon whether or not you are abiding in Christ. The plain truth is, apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5)!
Assuming a right relationship with Christ, the next issue becomes a matter of simple obedience, and this means personal discipline. The Bible exhorts you, “…exercise yourself toward godliness” (1 Timothy 4:7). This means that your priorities must line up with God’s priorities. It means the way you spend your time, energy and resources must be in keeping with God’s Word. It means that you choose to obey Him even when you don’t feel like it. It is only as you are disciplined in your mindset and approach to parenting that you will find yourself providing the consistency that your children need.
How to parent creatively
My personal experience has been that creativity is at least as important as consistency in the process of parenting. The humbling, and sometimes startling truth is – each child is unique! Anyone who has more than one child has marveled at just how different each one is. We ask ourselves, “Did this child really come from our DNA?” So, what are some creative ideas for parenting the so-called “strong-willed” child?
Creative Idea #1: Train up your child in the way he should go… This means pay attention to your child’s personality, temperament, and interests; in short, notice the way God has made him or her. Too many times, out of our own convenience, we attempt to fit this particular child into the same “mold” as their sibling(s) or peers. Don’t be afraid, or too lazy, to try new things and explore what makes this kid “tick”! Just because you and your first 2 or 3 kids enjoy sports, doesn’t mean that this child is going to. Maybe God has gifted them musically, artistically, or intellectually in ways that will require a different investment of your time, energy, and resources. Be flexible and teachable on this point, and let them stretch you into new areas of discovery.
In a similar way, some kids are outgoing and confident, while others seem to hold back, needing some time to observe things a bit and that’s okay. Without “coddling” them, give them a little more space and time. Be patient while encouraging them to try new things. There’s no question that this takes more time, thoughtfulness, energy, and perhaps even the help of others, but it will be worth it in the end. God didn’t make a mistake with this child! If you have a child who “broke the mold” – you can be sure it is by God’s design. Undoubtedly, He’s using this child to teach you some things, so pay attention. Very likely, this is the child you will be most indebted to in heaven because they kept you on your knees, humble before God, constantly aware of your need for His grace!
Creative Idea #2: Enlist the help of others If you are a Christian, one of the greatest gifts you have is being part of God’s family. You have a real advantage over most parents since you are already surrounded by others who share your spiritual values, and have walked the parenting path ahead of you. They are some of the most valuable, yet overlooked resources available to parents these days. There is no good reason that you have to wonder aimlessly in your parenting journey. Take advantage of the wisdom and experience of others. You will be blessed!
If you don’t already have a parenting support group or ministry at your church, it may be that God would use you to start one! The good news is you don’t have to “reinvent the wheel”! I recommend that you check out the National Center for Biblical Parenting website: www.biblicalparenting.org for more information on how to start an Effective Parenting Support Group. They have all the resources necessary to get you started.
Parents are often encouraged to find that others have dealt with the very same challenges they are facing, and have discovered solutions they are more than happy to share. Likewise, it is rewarding to help others with the wisdom you have gained in life. There is a wealth of creativity and wisdom, not to mention prayer support, when parents gather together with a common goal of becoming more effective parents. This is a wise investment of your time, energy, and resources.
Creative Idea #3: Take advantage of proven parenting resources There is so much good material out there for parents who are willing to do a little homework, and you don’t have to spend tons of time and money! I recommend the following ministries and their websites:
Jon Sanné is a Presenter for the National Center for Biblical Parenting, and the Family Life Pastor at Calvary Chapel in Olympia, WA, where he has served for the past 16 years. He believes that the family is God’s training ground for both parents and children as they learn and grow together in everyday life. Although there is no such thing as a perfect parent, Jon will share how you can be asuccessful one!
Q and A is your opportunity to ask questions regarding the Bible, church, or just about anything regarding Christian faith and life. Submit questions on the response form in your bulletin or E-mail the Church Office.
When my husband comes home and is tired after work... it's hard to have physical intimacy and feel connected. What do I do?
Q.When my husband comes home and is tired after work, I have been home with little ones all day. He doesn't want to talk, and that's all I want to do is talk with him and share my thoughts and feelings and my day. It hurts me and then he wants intimacy and I don't want it at all. I feel so emotionally cut off from him and so it's hard to have physical intimacy and feel connected. What do I do?
A.This is a very common issue in marriage. It is important to remember that men and women are sexually and emotionally wired completely differently. This is not an excuse for a man to be insensitive to his wife, but most men feel sex is a great way to connect with their wife, (and may be very ready to talk afterwards) and most wives feel they need to be connected verbally and emotionally to their husbands before even considering sex. Do you see the dilemma? Some one (hopefully both) need to love sacrificially. It is important to express our needs to one another, and also take pro active practical steps.
I believe that if men could remember that women need time to talk they would have more sex with their wife. One thing that might be helpful is to make plans together for date nights even if you are not leaving the house. This way both of you can plan on spending time together and purposefully and mentally anticipate what the date will bring. To do this, most of us have to make lots of arrangements, getting kids to bed and so on. It is so easy to get caught in a rut in marriage, but we have to be strategic and get that quality time on the calendar. This may not sound very romantic or spontaneous, but the principal of sewing and reaping applies. Work hard to plan and create atmosphere for intimacy instead of just expecting it to happen. Some times our expectations about these things can be very unrealistic and we become disappointed and distant with our spouse.
Q and A is your opportunity to ask questions regarding the Bible, church, or just about anything regarding Christian faith and life. Submit questions on the response form in your bulletin or E-mail the Church Office.
It really depends upon the condition of the child. Because of things like neglect and abuse, foster children often come with physical, mental, or emotional “baggage” that requires a special ministry of compassion which simply may not be as necessary for children who have grown up in healthier environments. This ministry of compassion will require an extrameasure of things like wisdom andlongsuffering.
Though God didn’t create life itself to be complicated, sin and its effects certainly can and do complicate life! When children have been neglected and/or abused in various ways, they often require more focused attention and care. This can be a startling and discouraging discovery for a foster parent, but it need not be. If you take the time to educate yourself on some of the potential pitfalls of foster parenting, you will, no doubt, save yourself a lot of frustration. Talk with other experienced foster parents, and avail yourself of the resources provided at www.biblicalparenting.org. Author and speaker, Dr. Scott Turansky, having raised two adopted daughters of his own, also speaks to this subject.
Another factor that affects how you fulfill your role as a foster parent has to do with understandingauthority. Because the State plays a significant role in the welfare of the foster child, you are limited in the area of discipline. For example, in some states, you may not have the same freedom to spank your foster child as you would your own biological child.
In some ways…no.
The reality is kids, regardless of their circumstance or history, still have the same fundamental need to be loved, trained, and protected as they learn and grow through life. If you are faithful to do these things, you will have a fruitful ministry in the life of a child – one that will be rewarded eternally! Jesus said, “And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me” (Matt. 18:5). NIV
About the Author
Jon Sanné is a Presenter for the National Center for Biblical Parenting, and the Family Life Pastor at Calvary Chapel in Olympia, WA, where he has served for the past 16 years. He believes that the family is God’s training ground for both parents and children as they learn and grow together in everyday life. Although there is no such thing as a perfect parent, Jon will share how you can be asuccessful one!
What are your thoughts on this week’s QOTW? – “Why is it important to study the Bible in context? What is wrong with taking verses out of context?” – http://www.gotquestions.org/questweek.html
Absolutely, positively, without a doubt, context is king. Without it you are just swimming in a sea of words and the world already has enough of that problem.
Comment by Debbie
Absolutely everything. Although the Bible transcends all time, every Book was written by the Holy Spirit to a specific group for a specific reason. That does not mean the spiritual principles within cannot apply to us, but we cannot apply Scripture designated for one group of people to another group of people. There is so much false teaching and cults because a Scripture from one Book is tied together with a Scripture from another Book written 600 years later to a different group of people and then it is proclaimed a doctrine. One or two Scriptures somehow does not make a doctrine. Sad, but true….The closer we come to the original etymology, hermenuetics and isogogics, the more sense it all makes. One rabbi commented: “sometimes reading translations is like kissing a bride through a veil.” Above all things, study and read…. MARANATHA
Comment by Robert
Context is important in anything, whether it be a document, an interview with someone in a newspaper or, most importantly, in the Bible.
It is so easy in life for someone to take a sentence or two out of context and make it fit their argument. In the case of the Bible, it is imperative that people don’t do that, otherwise people can say what they want at any time.
Here’s an example of context in the real world.
“I am not happy with this country. I am going to leave.”
Read that. If I were saying that about my home country, does it make me sound like someone who wants to leave?
That’s just one sentence. Imagine the paragraph below.
“I am not happy with this country. I am going to leave. For a while, anyway. I’ll visit a relative in another country for a while and then come back here. I do love this country and hope it can find it’s way again so that we can start doing good things as a nation.”
The first sentence makes me out to be angry, perhaps bitter, someone who wants to leave a country. The second puts the sentence into the context of my feelings as a whole. It’s all hypothetical, but I hope my point is one well made.
People who wish to attack Christianity could pick verses or lines from the Bible to suit their own needs. We need to be able to argue against such things and point people in the direction of reading the Bible as a whole, studying it, taking into account many things, not just taking one line or verse out of context, etc.
Comment by Edith Jane
Alyson #1, I couldn’t have said it better. The Word’s context is King… Christ is the living Word and context teaches you everything. Perfectly put Alyson! God bless you!
Comment by nbanuchi
Here’s something I just read this morning:
“…when passages are quoted with regard to context, with terms properly translated and explained, and with account taken of the culture and background of the author and his intended readers, the method [of proof-texting] is perfectly.” Jewish New Testament Commentary, by David H. Stein, p286.
Although the above had particular reference to “proof-texting”, it well establishes the fundamental method for proper exegesis.
I am amazed at how many scholarly (as well as the not so scholarly) apologists fail – in spite of their insistence on context and properly exegeting texts – to follow their own advice. For example:
See:
Now, although this guy (Mark Keilar) is not a scholar, nevertheless, posing as a Christian teacher he not totally misrepresents what the Greek experts actually do say about “kosmos” in Jn 3:16, he also totally ignores context and proper word-meaning.
Another example from a scholarly apologist (which is worse):
James White totally ignores the context that shows Jesus inviting this rich person to experience his saving grace…Jesus intent when he calls the sinner to follow his is to save him, not just show him his sin for the sake of showing him his sin. And he has done this kind of exegesis more than once.
This kind of “exegesis” is so prevalent that what’s disturbing is not so much that it’s done, but that, while themselves demanding a proper exegesis of the text, they totally ignore it and don’t even realize (so it seems) that they are failing to take their own counsel.
You can listen by clicking onto “here is the full audio” in the paragraph under “Debate Audio with Dr. Michael Brown”. Debate actually starts at 11:30 into the audio if you want to fast forward.
After carefully listening, who do you think is using proper exegesis? (It’s just a rhetorical question not requiring that you answer it here).
Comment by alvin
If you sued a car dealership for taking your new car back, because they had promised to sell that car to you, and you had the contract to prove it? If the salesman could prove you never paid a penny of what you had promised? That would be taking the promise out of the full context of the contract. (The judge would not agree with you). Are the promises of scripture are like that? Though salvation is free, blessing comes from obedience. God wants our heart.
Comment by BiblosLXX
It was a simple, effective, and rightly answered QOTW. I just wanted to point out a grammatical error in the QOTW (1/14/11):
“Our study is greatly enhanced by maintaining diligence in the use of context because it is quite easy come to wrong conclusions by taking phrases and verses out of context.”
It should read, “… it is quite easy *TO* come to wrong conclusions…”
(The word “to” needs to be added before the word “come”)
God Bless
Comment by BiblosLXX
And now my thoughts on the QOTW:
Now, although I believe context is fundamental in understating scripture, who’s to stay who has the right context? For instance, there are many different “contextual” understandings of Romans 9 in order to deal with the topic of Predestination. From one side taking it clearly as Predestination, to another side completely changing all of the chapters before and after Romans 9 to show its not talking about people but nations, to another side completely contextualizing the book to show that predestination does not happen.
So, who has the right contextual understanding of scripture?
God Bless
Comment by Gigi
Thank you for this article,I’m going to print a few copies and hand it out to some “self made priest” who are misleading the people in my community. As an apostate of Islam I thought the priests of my new found religion will be better, but this is not the case.
Comment by Anonymous
Quote: “So, who has the right contextual understanding of scripture?God Bless” My Answer? God has the right understanding. Paul stated “let God be true and every man a liar” I do not want to use my answer as a dodge to excuse myself from not using my brain. The test case given was Romans 9. Romans 9-12 are a parenthesese answering the question, “Yes, but what about Israel?” where the main question amswered in Romans is “what is the gospel of Christ?” and that question has a summary in chapter 1:15-17. How that gospel affects beliefs and actions is the bulk of the book. Also in Romans 9:3 we see the heart of Jesus Christ in the willingness for personal sacrifice by Paul just as Moses in the old testament offered for his name to be blotted from the book of life to rescue his people. In neither case did God accept the offer, because only his Son Jesus is able to die for the sins of us all.
Comment by nbanuchi
To answer BiblosLXX,
IF we are looking for absolute certainty, I’m not sure that is possible.
That being said, nevertheless, I think it is possible to come to a logical and valid degree of certainty (to a lesser or greater extent) as to the intent of writer by a careful analysis (to the best of one’s abilities) of the text.
I’m not a scholar so, of course, my “careful” analysis will only go so far; therefore, I will need the assistance of authoritative scholars and reputable reference works in trying to establish what to me is the best understanding of the text(s) under study.
For example, Jn 3:16. There are those – scholars (White) and non-scholars alike (Keilar) – who maintain that “kosmos” (Greek for “world”) means “believers only”. As I read the context, (1) such a defintion of the word makes no sense of the text: (2) no reputable lexicon (as far as I have seen) defines “kosmos” as “believers” only; (3) the Biblical pattern shows God’s salvific love for all men, which Jn 3:16 would contradict if “kosmos” just meant or referred to believers.
As such, my conclusion would be that the divine love spoken of in Jn 3:16 is universal, aiming at the salvation of all men as sinners without exception.
Comment by ceseeley
BiblosLXX and All;
What BiblosLXX has to say is so significant. I have not found in Scripture where it states that Context will guide one into all truth. But, the Bible does say that the Holy Spirit will guide you into all Truth for God’s Glory … Praise the Lord and Praise His Holy Word!!!
Jhn 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, [that] shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
Jhn 14:17 [Even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
Jhn 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
1Jo 4:6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
Jhn 14:26 But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
1Cr 2:10 But God hath revealed [them] unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
1Cr 2:11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
1Cr 2:12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
1Cr 2:13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
1Cr 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned.
1Cr 2:15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
1Cr 2:16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
1Jo 2:20 But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.
1Jo 2:27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.
Jhn 3:32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.
Jhn 7:16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
Jhn 7:17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or [whether] I speak of myself.
Jhn 7:18 He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.
Jhn 8:38 I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father.
Jhn 12:49 For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.
Joe 2:28 And it shall come to pass afterward, [that] I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:
Act 2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
Act 2:18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:
Act 11:28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.
Act 21:9 And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.
2Th 2:12 That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
1Ti 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
1Ti 4:2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;
1Ti 4:3 Forbidding to marry, [and commanding] to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.
2Ti 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
2Pe 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.
Comment by nbanuchi
Hi Ceseeley,
I was under the impression that, being Christians, the subject assumed the necessity of the Spirit’s guidance. In any case, the Spirit cannot guide into truth the person who either refuses to know the truth or does not properly seek it. In the latter situation, understanding context as best one can is conducive to receiving the promised leading of the Spirit into truth (according to the ability of each believer to spiritually apprehend truth).
Taking the scripture out of context is irresponsible and can easily be done if one hasn’t been taught better.Example,Mt 27:5 and he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple,and departed,and went and hanged himself.luke 10:37 Go and do thou likewise.Very simple example, but true word of God, if it’s used in it’s proper context.There is no question about it,It has to be line upon line,precept upon precept …Isa 28:10-11. Some individuals like to take John 3:16 out of context to say if one believes they’re saved,however they seem to forget that if all it takes is believing then according to James 2:19 the devils are saved because they believe as well.This is a prime example of taking the word out of context to back ones personal belief.One of the precepts for John 3:16 is Mk 16:16-17 signs will follow the believer.Believers will not follow the signs.And above all John 7:37-39 A true believer will believe ALL the word NOT what is convient for ones belief. M
Comment by Debbie
Very good Joe! LOL!! Your example of using the Bible out of context was awesome… MARANATHA
Comment by Michael James Stone
It is too easy to make blanket statements about Issues without noting exceptions to them. The “knee jerk” response to the question is “of course” you should take scriptures “In context”. But the element of context at one time was subject to the person presenting the material.
They would “set the context” and to be frank about ALL of Christendom, even when a person “reads and describes the context” there is little place to disagree or present counterpoint to “context.”
The issue is study, the problem is what we call study is in fact preaching.
But context issues are the Big Bad Bogey Man of the Modern Era and the fact remains the majority of people Don’t know Context. This being said, we DO HAVE those who can Craft a Spin and even ethnic Biases apply that often scriptures and context are used to say want them to say.
The “real” bottom line is can a child be misled by just reading it? If Yes, then you are in jeopardy, if no, then you are in error. Even in Context, errors occur and it can be that the Spirit of God may highlight an area or portion to you that you need now, but later may not even notice in reading,
God, by his spirit applies a “spiritual context’ to the Word of God. A means whereby He teaches.
The topical versus linear debate will go on as to style and presentation, and most often those who force an issue are the first to abuse it, so too in “enforcing” a standard of Context rather than a Trust to God and In Him to reveal to us His word.
If we get carried away I can say Proverbs 3 so you get context, but only 3:5,6 is what I need and it not out of context.
So we play with definitions and additions to scriptures, Verse Numbers, Chapter Numbers etc are added FOR US, and we say what context we assume is right by if we agree and the reality is God alone if He wrote it, is the one alone who can determine what context applies and what does not.
