Is there a difference between “meaning” and “application”? Can a passage of the Scriptures have multiple meanings? Can the same passage have multiple applications?
There are those who say that a verse or passage of the Scriptures has only one meaning – the one intended by the writer. Others maintain that whatever the Holy Spirit speaks to your heart in a given moment is the intended meaning. Many cautiously assert “it depends”. Under which of these three camps do you find yourself?
Let us consider John 3:16 as an example. It reads, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life”(NIV). It is clear that this verse states that God, prompted by His love, offers eternal life to those who believe in His Son. That is the meaning I see and understand that John, the writer, wanted to convey. Do you see differently? How about its application? Is it universal in the sense that it is offered to all or do you think it is only limited in its effective application? Personally, I believe it is universal because of the words “world” and “whoever”. I just don’t see them interpreted differently than its native meaning. So, to me John 3:16 has one meaning and one application.
Philippians 4:13 is another example worthy of citation. The New International Version renders it, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” The context of this statement by Paul will give us a clear meaning. He talked about the fact that he knew what it was to be in need or to have plenty. He went on to say that he learned the secret of being content in any and every situation – well-fed, hungry, living in abundance or want. Then he proceeded by saying he could do all things through Him who gave him strength. Meaning, Paul was able to maintain a contented life pleasing to God through them all because God gave him strength. The immediate application of being able to “do everything” is to be content whether in abundance or dire need. Now is that the only application we can glean from this verse? I think the truth of this verse can be claimed in situations where we need God’s strength in order for us to accomplish what He wills for us to do. The same can be said when we find ourselves traversing life’s ups and downs, and, like Paul when we go through aplenty, stringency, sickness and good health. We can live through these and emerge triumphant because He supplies the power and energy.
What have we learned from these examples? Meaning never change but application does. Meaning is the principle of truth which can have various applications in different situation.
COMMENTS here
Monday, May 31, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
Pinnacle of Pride
I just read an article which recounts a comment allegedly made by a professing atheist in a debate that he is better than God. Assuming the statement was actually made, can you think of a more arrogant claim than that? No sensible mind would believe that of course, but on second thought, perhaps he’s got a point. An atheist does not believe that God exists, right? So when he made that assertion, he was unwittingly comparing himself to a non-existent being, therefore, he is better than Nothing.
Going back to the atheist’s comment, it reminds me of what the Good Book says, “The fool says in his heart: There is no God”. Why is a denier of God a fool? The Hebrew word for “fool” connotes moral deficiency. In fact the succeeding passage of Psalm 14 states that his ways are corrupt and his deeds vile. When a person refuses to face up to his moral obligation and responsibility, the only option left for him is to deny the Ultimate Being to Whom he innately knows he is accountable. Such act of denial is unwise, foolish.
In my correspondence to Cara (see previous posts), I said that it is my belief that every man knows within him that there exists a Supreme Being. In addition, he is surrounded by overwhelming evidences that point to this Being. He does not need to be taught of this. This is the testimony of the Scriptures.
Therefore, it is the pinnacle of pride when anyone claims there is no God or worse, he is better than God. The Bible has one word of description for him – FOOL.
Going back to the atheist’s comment, it reminds me of what the Good Book says, “The fool says in his heart: There is no God”. Why is a denier of God a fool? The Hebrew word for “fool” connotes moral deficiency. In fact the succeeding passage of Psalm 14 states that his ways are corrupt and his deeds vile. When a person refuses to face up to his moral obligation and responsibility, the only option left for him is to deny the Ultimate Being to Whom he innately knows he is accountable. Such act of denial is unwise, foolish.
In my correspondence to Cara (see previous posts), I said that it is my belief that every man knows within him that there exists a Supreme Being. In addition, he is surrounded by overwhelming evidences that point to this Being. He does not need to be taught of this. This is the testimony of the Scriptures.
Therefore, it is the pinnacle of pride when anyone claims there is no God or worse, he is better than God. The Bible has one word of description for him – FOOL.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
A Concept Collapses - 1st Installment
Concept: Christians have been forgiven of their sins past, present and future
At first glance it sounds true and seems to make sense, but does it? Let’s see. Sin as defined in the Scriptures is essentially an act. In one of his letters, John states that it is the “transgression (violation, breaking) of the law” (1 John 3:4KJV). In fact, identify any sin in the Scriptures and almost always you will see that it involves a choice whether it is a thought or deed.
Therefore if sin is a choice or an act and for it to be forgiven, it must be confessed and repented of, how then is it possible that a Christian’s future sinful act has already been forgiven? How can I feel remorse and conviction for something I have not done? How can I ask forgiveness for something I know nothing about? Confession of sin is a condition of forgiveness (1 John 1:9). Do you see the point?
A retort may be given that because God knows my future actions (including those deemed sinful), He could and has already forgiven me of my unrighteous acts. I find this reasoning lacking in Scriptural backing.
Let us grant for a moment that this Concept is true. Logically, it follows that any professing Christian can do any heinous act and should feel no guilt, shame or remorse, and need of forgiveness anymore. Repentance? Unnecessary! Why? Because the sinful act has already been forgiven. He can live like the devil (God forbid!) and according to the proponents of this Concept, he is still bound for heaven. What an awful thought! In effect this is giving license to ungodly lifestyle. Can you see the danger of this Idea which is being propagated daily?
Jesus, in His discourse clearly stated that the Father’s forgiveness depends on us extending forgiveness to those who have wronged us (Matthew 6:12, 14-15). John said that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
Read Matthew 18:23 -35 and weep.
At first glance it sounds true and seems to make sense, but does it? Let’s see. Sin as defined in the Scriptures is essentially an act. In one of his letters, John states that it is the “transgression (violation, breaking) of the law” (1 John 3:4KJV). In fact, identify any sin in the Scriptures and almost always you will see that it involves a choice whether it is a thought or deed.
Therefore if sin is a choice or an act and for it to be forgiven, it must be confessed and repented of, how then is it possible that a Christian’s future sinful act has already been forgiven? How can I feel remorse and conviction for something I have not done? How can I ask forgiveness for something I know nothing about? Confession of sin is a condition of forgiveness (1 John 1:9). Do you see the point?
A retort may be given that because God knows my future actions (including those deemed sinful), He could and has already forgiven me of my unrighteous acts. I find this reasoning lacking in Scriptural backing.
Let us grant for a moment that this Concept is true. Logically, it follows that any professing Christian can do any heinous act and should feel no guilt, shame or remorse, and need of forgiveness anymore. Repentance? Unnecessary! Why? Because the sinful act has already been forgiven. He can live like the devil (God forbid!) and according to the proponents of this Concept, he is still bound for heaven. What an awful thought! In effect this is giving license to ungodly lifestyle. Can you see the danger of this Idea which is being propagated daily?
Jesus, in His discourse clearly stated that the Father’s forgiveness depends on us extending forgiveness to those who have wronged us (Matthew 6:12, 14-15). John said that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
Read Matthew 18:23 -35 and weep.
(R)eceive, (E)xamine, (D)ecide
The R.E.D. Approach to knowing the truth.
Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true (Acts 17:11NIV).
As we gain progress in our spiritual journey, there may come a time when we pause and reflect on concepts we heard or shared to us even by people whom we trust and respect. Moreover, we might have accepted these as truth without second thought. After all, these are part of the mainstream or prevailing view in our Christian community.
Like the Berean believers of old, it would be wise for us to take a step back or two and examine the Scriptures to determine whether THESE ARE TRUE. The Holy Book is our ultimate authority. We should not hesitate to ask legitimate questions like,
“Is the idea being propounded consistent with what is already revealed in God’s Word?”
“Is it in agreement with the will and character of God?”
“Does it discourage unrighteous living and encourage holiness and righteousness?”
“Does it make me love and appreciate God more for who He really is?”
Bear in mind that we are not questioning, we are asking questions. What do we mean by this? Well, “questioning” has a negative connotation, while “asking question” means to desire to be enlightened. The former may be construed as a personal attack while the latter a genuine intent to learn and obtain clarity on the issue at hand.
In my succeeding posts we will highlight some of these ideas or concepts, put them to the test (1 Thessalonians 5:21), we’ll ask questions, and decide if they are true or not.
Are you with me? Let’s start.
Concept #1: Christians have already been forgiven of their sins past, present and future.
(see next post for discussion - STAY TUNED)
Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true (Acts 17:11NIV).
As we gain progress in our spiritual journey, there may come a time when we pause and reflect on concepts we heard or shared to us even by people whom we trust and respect. Moreover, we might have accepted these as truth without second thought. After all, these are part of the mainstream or prevailing view in our Christian community.
Like the Berean believers of old, it would be wise for us to take a step back or two and examine the Scriptures to determine whether THESE ARE TRUE. The Holy Book is our ultimate authority. We should not hesitate to ask legitimate questions like,
“Is the idea being propounded consistent with what is already revealed in God’s Word?”
“Is it in agreement with the will and character of God?”
“Does it discourage unrighteous living and encourage holiness and righteousness?”
“Does it make me love and appreciate God more for who He really is?”
Bear in mind that we are not questioning, we are asking questions. What do we mean by this? Well, “questioning” has a negative connotation, while “asking question” means to desire to be enlightened. The former may be construed as a personal attack while the latter a genuine intent to learn and obtain clarity on the issue at hand.
In my succeeding posts we will highlight some of these ideas or concepts, put them to the test (1 Thessalonians 5:21), we’ll ask questions, and decide if they are true or not.
Are you with me? Let’s start.
Concept #1: Christians have already been forgiven of their sins past, present and future.
(see next post for discussion - STAY TUNED)
Monday, May 24, 2010
Victoria Day, eh?
Having been living in Canada the past 20 years, I know what Victoria Day is all about right? Well, no. “Shame on you”, you’d perhaps say and I would not argue. I SHOULD KNOW, so I “researched”. A few clicks after, this is what I’ve gathered:
*Victoria Day is a celebration of Queen Victoria’s birthday, May 24.
*It is always on a Monday.
*Canada, as member of Commonwealth of Nations of which Queen Victoria is head, observes Victoria Day as a statutory holiday.
*It always falls on the weekend before the U.S. Memorial Day holiday.
*Canadians generally spend the long weekend on a three-day getaway, lazing at cottages, gardening, raiding outlets south of the border, populating nearby parks with all sorts of ethnic dishes and delicacies, and viewing fireworks in designated venues to cap the holiday.
Some opt to stay at home to relax and “take it easy”. It is a welcome respite from hectic daily schedules – a perfect time to recharge.
True to Canadian tradition, my wife and I, together with some friends came back late last night from a two-day “raid and hunt” junket for bargains – something the wife loves to do. Such trips do not always result in “shop ‘til you drop” events, but turn out to be full of fun and camaraderie. This last one is no exception.
Today, May 24, is a beautiful sunny day. My wife is gardening while I am composing this blog. Tomorrow will be another day. I’ll deal with it as it comes.
*Victoria Day is a celebration of Queen Victoria’s birthday, May 24.
*It is always on a Monday.
*Canada, as member of Commonwealth of Nations of which Queen Victoria is head, observes Victoria Day as a statutory holiday.
*It always falls on the weekend before the U.S. Memorial Day holiday.
*Canadians generally spend the long weekend on a three-day getaway, lazing at cottages, gardening, raiding outlets south of the border, populating nearby parks with all sorts of ethnic dishes and delicacies, and viewing fireworks in designated venues to cap the holiday.
Some opt to stay at home to relax and “take it easy”. It is a welcome respite from hectic daily schedules – a perfect time to recharge.
True to Canadian tradition, my wife and I, together with some friends came back late last night from a two-day “raid and hunt” junket for bargains – something the wife loves to do. Such trips do not always result in “shop ‘til you drop” events, but turn out to be full of fun and camaraderie. This last one is no exception.
Today, May 24, is a beautiful sunny day. My wife is gardening while I am composing this blog. Tomorrow will be another day. I’ll deal with it as it comes.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Stand Out or Blend In
Something stands out when it possesses attributes that are different from others – colour, shape, pattern, texture, etc. The key word is “different”. It is unlike the rest, it is unique. It sooner or later catches your attention because, yes, it stands out.
Something blends in when it becomes a part of a unit or a whole losing its uniqueness or individuality in the process. It is neither easily detected nor strongly pulls attraction to it. It’s just like the rest. Its qualities are commonplace.
I am now led to this question: Does a Christian stand out or blend in?
By virtue of who he is in Christ, he should stand out. Jesus said that he is a light of the world. He is the exact opposite of darkness. He loves truth, justice, righteousness, and holiness. He abhors falsehood, injustice, unrighteousness, and ungodliness. He seeks only what brings honor and glory to God.
Something blends in when it becomes a part of a unit or a whole losing its uniqueness or individuality in the process. It is neither easily detected nor strongly pulls attraction to it. It’s just like the rest. Its qualities are commonplace.
I am now led to this question: Does a Christian stand out or blend in?
By virtue of who he is in Christ, he should stand out. Jesus said that he is a light of the world. He is the exact opposite of darkness. He loves truth, justice, righteousness, and holiness. He abhors falsehood, injustice, unrighteousness, and ungodliness. He seeks only what brings honor and glory to God.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Cursory Conversation on Commandments
Further to my post yesterday......
Person A: God has given us laws and commandments that are impossible to keep.
Person B: Would that not make Him unjust for demanding punishment on those who break His laws?
Person A: No, because God is a God of love and justice.
Person B: But if He demands observance of His commandments that are impossible for you and me to keep and then condemn us to everlasting punishment, nothing can be more unjust and unloving, don’t you think? Even imperfect parents do not require obedience from their kids to a rule they know their kids will not be able to keep, how much more God if He is indeed loving and just?
Person A: Ah, it’s because of Jesus. You see He died as a sacrifice for our sins. He paid the penalty. God knew all along that we would not be able to keep the commandments demanded by His holiness, that’s why even before we were born He planned that Jesus will die on our behalf, if we want to be brought back to His fold.
Person B: Wow! Let me get this straight. Are you saying, and am I understanding you correctly that:
A God of love and justice authored these commandments that man cannot keep;
Man is consequently punished for breaking these laws;
God provided a way for man to escape punishment by sending Jesus to calvary to pay the price of breaking the laws that are impossible for him to keep in the first place;
He must accept what Christ has done by faith to be reconciled back to God?
Person A: You’re getting it.
Person B: If you’re right, then God planned His own misery and man had the perfect excuse for his sin.
The testimony of the Scriptures though, appears to show the exact opposite: God gave us good laws – laws that are not burdensome; laws that are product of His love and wisdom; laws that were intended to provide guidance and direction in our relationship to Him and our fellowmen. Sadly, man who was created in God’s image and possessed freedom to choose, chose to break those laws. The God of boundless mercy provided a way in the person of Jesus Christ who was the only One who fit the bill to be the ultimate sacrifice for sin once and for all.
Person A: God has given us laws and commandments that are impossible to keep.
Person B: Would that not make Him unjust for demanding punishment on those who break His laws?
Person A: No, because God is a God of love and justice.
Person B: But if He demands observance of His commandments that are impossible for you and me to keep and then condemn us to everlasting punishment, nothing can be more unjust and unloving, don’t you think? Even imperfect parents do not require obedience from their kids to a rule they know their kids will not be able to keep, how much more God if He is indeed loving and just?
Person A: Ah, it’s because of Jesus. You see He died as a sacrifice for our sins. He paid the penalty. God knew all along that we would not be able to keep the commandments demanded by His holiness, that’s why even before we were born He planned that Jesus will die on our behalf, if we want to be brought back to His fold.
Person B: Wow! Let me get this straight. Are you saying, and am I understanding you correctly that:
A God of love and justice authored these commandments that man cannot keep;
Man is consequently punished for breaking these laws;
God provided a way for man to escape punishment by sending Jesus to calvary to pay the price of breaking the laws that are impossible for him to keep in the first place;
He must accept what Christ has done by faith to be reconciled back to God?
Person A: You’re getting it.
Person B: If you’re right, then God planned His own misery and man had the perfect excuse for his sin.
The testimony of the Scriptures though, appears to show the exact opposite: God gave us good laws – laws that are not burdensome; laws that are product of His love and wisdom; laws that were intended to provide guidance and direction in our relationship to Him and our fellowmen. Sadly, man who was created in God’s image and possessed freedom to choose, chose to break those laws. The God of boundless mercy provided a way in the person of Jesus Christ who was the only One who fit the bill to be the ultimate sacrifice for sin once and for all.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Does love demand the impossible?
I personally find that when I try to understand a dogma, concept or belief and judge it to be true or false, I must evaluate it through the lenses of Scriptures and God's revealed character. The authority I must appeal to is the Inspired Word and not someone's point of view.
Jesus said, "I am the Truth" (John 14:6). That means that who He is and what He says consist my measuring stick, my standard. Anything less is falsehood.
To demand an impossibility is less than loving. Further, it is unjust. Any civilized society - christian or not - will agree to that, and yet, it is not uncommon to hear people make assertions that put God's character in question. Statements like:
God gave us good laws but impossible to keep.
God decreed that some are going to heaven while others to hell.
Now put those two statements to the test in the light of what Scriptures say. With your concordance look up verses that contain these words: laws, commandments, statutes, precepts. Notice their descriptions? You will come across adjectives such as, good, perfect, to be desired more than gold, not burdensome... See what I mean? There is nothing in God's word that says His commandments cannot be kept.
God gave us His laws for our good. That's consistent with His character.
Testing the second statement above is equally easy. Look up verses and passages that talk about salvation. You will see that it is offered to all. Not everyone will end up in heaven because not everyone has responded to the invitation to be reconciled to God. "Whosoever believes", "Whosoever will", "He desires all men to be saved".
Therefore, it is false to say, "God gave us laws that are impossible to keep" and "God decreed that some are going to heaven while others to hell".
Jesus said, "I am the Truth" (John 14:6). That means that who He is and what He says consist my measuring stick, my standard. Anything less is falsehood.
To demand an impossibility is less than loving. Further, it is unjust. Any civilized society - christian or not - will agree to that, and yet, it is not uncommon to hear people make assertions that put God's character in question. Statements like:
God gave us good laws but impossible to keep.
God decreed that some are going to heaven while others to hell.
Now put those two statements to the test in the light of what Scriptures say. With your concordance look up verses that contain these words: laws, commandments, statutes, precepts. Notice their descriptions? You will come across adjectives such as, good, perfect, to be desired more than gold, not burdensome... See what I mean? There is nothing in God's word that says His commandments cannot be kept.
God gave us His laws for our good. That's consistent with His character.
Testing the second statement above is equally easy. Look up verses and passages that talk about salvation. You will see that it is offered to all. Not everyone will end up in heaven because not everyone has responded to the invitation to be reconciled to God. "Whosoever believes", "Whosoever will", "He desires all men to be saved".
Therefore, it is false to say, "God gave us laws that are impossible to keep" and "God decreed that some are going to heaven while others to hell".
Sunday, May 16, 2010
The Berean Forum
In Acts 17:11, we read: And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. (The New Living Translation)
This verse tells us four attributes essential to our spiritual growth – open mindedness; eagerness in listening to the word taught and preached; regularity in in-depth study of Scriptures; and, verification that what is taught is truth. I call this the Berean Mindset. This is the foundation of The Berean Forum – a semi-monthly assembly of eager believers to be exposed to a unique way of learning and studying the Scriptures.
Why call it “The Berean Forum”? I think for a very good reason and appropriate one. Our aim is to cultivate the Berean Mindset in a setting where one can freely participate in the discussion and interaction, hence, a Forum. This initiative is held every second and fourth Wednesday alternating with Prayer Meeting from 7:30PM to 9:00PM.
Although diverse topics are presented, they may be grouped under the following categories:
You and the World
You and the Church
Church Doctrines
Cults
Evangelism
You and Your Life
Sanctification
Holiness
Marriage/Home Life
We believe that learning is enhanced when various views on a given topic are encouraged to be expressed and afforded sufficient time for analysis, examination and clarification. The goal is to allow the truth of the Scriptures to emerge and not just someone’s point of view. It is hoped that this will further generate interest in a deeper study of God’s word, strengthen our faith, and provide elucidation on our widely-held beliefs that we take for granted.
The Apostle Paul instructed Timothy to be one who “…correctly handles the word of truth” (2
Tim. 2:15 NLT). The Apostle Peter exhorted in one of his letters to “always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15 NLT). We believe that these instruction and exhortation are for us as well.
We invite you to join The Berean Forum. It will be a Wednesday evening well-spent.
Venue: 16 Falconer Drive, Mississauga, ON.
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