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Institutional Thinking
“Institutional Thinking”
This is not a political post! A congressman grilled a Minneapolis “pastor” who’s allies had used the Bible to support their efforts. This is also not a post against politicians using the Bible!
Here are two of her examples.
1. Matthew 25:31-46 – Jesus is teaching us to feed the poor, clothed those less fortunate, help the sick, and visit those incarcerated.
I WANT TO BE LIKE THAT!
The congressman went through and asked repeatedly, “Who is this verse talking about? The individual or the government?” She admitted it was the individual. We could also add a third choice – the church? And yet still the answer would still be the individual. There is nothing unbiblical in God giving different responsibilities to different entities whether government, local congregations, families, or individuals.
2. 2 Corinthians 9:7 – That verse says we ought to be a cheerful giver because that is who God loves.
I WANT TO BE LIKE THAT!
The congressman then used that same verse because it also revealed this giving is to not be under compulsion. He asked if taxes are compulsory. And what would happen if she didn’t pay her taxes. She admitted taxes are compulsory. Therefore, the congressman said this giving in 2 Corinthians cannot be taxes.
Many with a certain political persuasion and many within Christ’s church have the same type of “Institutional Thinking” – That is, our taxes and the Sunday contribution are to be used to obey verses about giving to help all the needy. Such “Institutional Thinking” fulfills our responsibility regardless of context.
Admittedly, Jesus said we are to give to Caesar what is Caesars (Matthew 22:21, Mark 12:17, and Luke 20:25).Paying taxes is scriptural.
And admittedly, some giving is done through the church (1 Corinthians 16). Giving via an “Institution” is scriptural.
So where am I headed? The goals of this article is three-fold:
1. Are we thinking mainly “institutionally” or individually?
When considering our responsibilities towards those in need, is our first thought, “That’s why I pay taxes?” and “That’s why I gave on Sunday”?
2. Are we using the Bible contextually?
The Bible, like any type of communication, can made to say what it never meant.
3. Are we using the Bible to fit our agenda?
It is dangerous to force the Bible to fit our purpose.
These are three important goals to work on practicing constantly. Some, many, all, I have failed.
I DON’T WANT TO BE LIKE THAT!
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