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Friday, August 1, 2014

Context is King.

We live in an information age. The invention of the Internet in the 1990’s has made it so that anyone can find information on virtually any topic with the click of a mouse. Unfortunately, this also means that it has become far easier for people to lie and deceive each other. This is especially true whenever the Bible is involved.
I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I have seen Bible verses used out of context to either justify something that is contrary to God, or to discredit and insult God, His word, and those who follow him.  
            This is why it is so important to view things in context. If there is a Bible verse quoted, read the entire passage—the verses before and after it. If it still doesn’t make sense, then look at the cultural and historic context and cross reference the passage with other verses. Don’t base your opinions on something you read on Facebook. Look into it for yourself before you jump to conclusions. Just because sometihng is popular on the Internet doesn't mean it's true. We need to be cautious. (Matthew 24)

In short: Context is King. A verse taken out of context can be used to justify virtually anything—any doctrine or theology that suits your fancy. Unless you want to be deceived, I would encourage each and every one of you to think for yourselves concerning these things. The Internet is a great tool, but it is hardly foolproof. There are many people out there who hate God and seek to destroy Christianity by any means necessary. They are quick to condemn evil and point out the flaws that make Christians human. But I would challenge them to find fault with Jesus Christ himself. He is the one they find so offensive after all. 

If you pride yourself in your wisdom, then take to heart what I’ve said—think for yourself. But if you don’t believe me and still think of Christianity as the enemy of free thought; then I would encourage you to read some of what the Bible has to say about believing whatever you're told without question. You may be surprised to learn that God’s Word actually commends people for being open-minded. (Acts 17:11)


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