We who preach the gospel must not think of ourselves as public relations agents sent to establish good will between Christ and the world. We must not imagine ourselves commissioned to make Christ acceptable to big business, the press, the world of sports or modern education. We are not diplomats but prophets, and our message is not a compromise but an ultimatum. A.W. Tozer
Therefore let God-inspired Scripture decide between us; and on whichever side be found doctrines in harmony with the word of God, in favor of that side will be cast the vote of truth. --Basil of Caesarea
Once you learn to discern, there's no going back. You will begin to spot the lie everywhere it appears.

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service. 1 Timothy 1:12

Sunday, January 11, 2015

Context, Context, Context


Ignoring the context of a verse to support the principle or point, even though it might be a good one, teaches listeners or readers that this is an acceptable practice.  This mishandling of Scripture not only sets a bad example, it damages the church's ability to criticize, or even recognize, the faulty interpretive methods of cults and aberrant teachers.  The fact that a principle or point being taught happens to be orthodox does not justify using a faulty interpretive method to arrive at or support it.  The end does not justify the means.

Steve Bright, "What Are We Teaching About How to Handle Scripture?" Christian Research Journal Vol. 28/No.3, 2005, ""From the Editor"
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