Perrydox.com is devoted to the pursuit of truth, whether plain or paradoxical, whether simple or sublime, or simply absurd yet absolute.
Except
Except
Studying again and it makes me wonder how we compare to first century Christians. Think of how often we have denigrated the Corinthians for being so swayable to their current moralities and cultural weakness and even doctrinal errors. We are nothing like that, right. We are so much better than they are, right?
Except…Galatians is far more difficult and deeper than most give it credit. It has serious undertones that help elucidate the meaning. Then don’t get me started on the richness of Romans, Hebrews, and the OT backgrounds needed for those books, including Revelation. I’m glad no one today is demanding lighter and shorter and funnier.
Except….ever wonder how dumbed down a modern inspired letter might have to be to keep our attention?
Galatians is harsh too, as is 1 Corinthians. It has some serious accusations against both the recipients and those confusing them. The truth is truth “is”, despite Pilate’s question, “What is truth?”. Truth feels good and hurts; and sometimes it hurts so we can be better, not just feel better. I’m glad we can handle tough preaching.
Except…ever wonder how sweet and saccharine a modern inspired letter might have to be to keep us from getting our feelings hurt and finding another church?
Don’t start thinking that I’m thinking this is just about how congregations need to listen more to preachers. Galatians has a certain preacher or two – an apostle and one known for encouragement – who had to sit and listen with a pure heart too. Preachers are not an exception.
Except…how many preachers think, “If only everyone in the congregation was as devoted as I am.”
Now I know, no preacher is inspired, no elder is perfect, which also means not a single person in a congregation is either. We need each other, and we all need tougher hides!
Except…we need to stop needing “except”.
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