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* It's good to suffer loss, for it draws me to the Cross where God's loss is more than what anyone ever lost. * We cannot hear what the stories of the Bible are saying until we hear them as stories about ourselves. * Let go of control. * Trust God. Thank God. Think about God. Talk to God. Talk about God.

Monday, January 20, 2020

Are theological discussions unnecessary?

In depth and very detailed theological discussions and differences began with the Jewish rabbis who studied and interpreted the Torah (their Bible) in detail from different angles and perspectives. This was not to create dissent or contention or confusion. Rather, it was to try their best to discern what God is saying through His word/the Torah, so that they can best live in obedience to God. They were godly God fearing people. They were serious Bible students and scholars who wanted to practically live out the Word of God in their daily lives (Ps 1:2; 119:97).

Jesus--regarded and recognized as a rabbi--did the same thing in Matthew 5 in the 6 "antithesis": "You're heard it said ..... but I say to you." Jesus was obviously not trying to confuse but to clarify. So theological discussions are necessary and should lead to edification, clarity and enjoyment of the great mystery of God. But our differences and disagreements should never lead to demonizing or diminishing or disregarding others.

"...his delight is in the Lord's instruction (Torah/"Bible"), and he meditates on it day and night" (Psalm 1:2). "Oh, how I love your law (Torah/"Bible")! I meditate on it all day long" (Psalm 119:97).

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