Whenever two pirates don’t agree, they usually duel to settle the matter. Swords at the ready, they challenge each other, not knowing who will win the fight. Toe to toe, blade to blade, they parry until one comes out a clear winner. (Usually the only man still alive!)
Do you ever find yourself arguing with another Christian over Scripture? We all interpret the Bible in different ways, and that’s okay. There are Scriptures that are very clear in their meanings, stories that tell about specific events. And then there are those Scriptures that don’t quite explain themselves to us.
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16 NIV).
When we sit down with the Bible, we should always pray for wisdom and understanding of the Scriptures. God will then reveal to us what He wants us to know. Often, several people can read the same passage and each come away with a different understanding. God reveals His Word to each person according to his/her walk with Him. So, don’t be quick to argue over Scripture. When people disagree with you, hear them out. Together you can reach the truth. And more often than not, both of you will be right. We all live different lives and have different personalities. But we are all God’s children, and He will speak to us through His word.
Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures (Luke 24:45 NIV).
We will understand what God wants us to understand, when He wants us to understand it. And even though He sometimes takes His time explaining things to us, we need to be patient and know that it’s His will that shall be done, not ours.
So, let’s not argue amongst ourselves. We are all in the same boat, heading for the same Promised Land. Pray for understanding and allow God to reveal His plan for your life. Fighting and struggling will only bring you down, so open your eyes and ears to the truth in God’s word and gain understanding.
A man of understanding keeps a straight course (Proverbs 15:21 NIV).
We may not be pirates, but there are those times when we may feel the urge to argue with other Christians. What we need to remember is that the “sword” we are armed with is the Word of God. We need to parry in a way that is pleasing to God; using patience and understanding. Now, that’s a duel that can only end in life, not death!
Debbie Mitchell