Less Doctrine, More Scripture
but without humble honesty, deception is easy
“Toward the Good” in acrylic by Myra Alibrando
Tactics, Not Transparency
I am working on a booklet to show why evolution is not merely a trivial academic issue. Many believers feel evolution is difficult to overcome scientifically since the overwhelming majority of scientists support evolution. Cultures around the world accept evolution as science and creationism as religion.
I also present the sign of a weak argument is when debate is avoided and replaced with censorship. Who wants open debate when evidence and reason is against you?
Open Forum Christian Doctrine Debate
After all this time, it occurred to me only recently, that I do not see open debate on Christian doctrine. Sure, I see YouTube videos of many teachers. But all claim to individually teach the Bible. I do not know of live, public debates between denominational leaders or even inside churches to reveal scriptural thinking on topics. I don’t mean a winner and loser or unfriendly, I mean respectful sharing. Husbands and wives learn to lovingly disagree. We must be willing to disagree with our own previous ideas and keep growing. On the journey, why can’t we be transparent about our growth and reasoning?
Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 1 Peter 3:15b
My Sad Conclusion
I have come to a sad conclusion, at this point. Maybe I will change my mind later but for now I think most churches prefer ruling by positional authority. Sure, scriptures are always provided, but usually there is an official interpretation that is final.
Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. Acts 17:11
It would only be a humble leader to risk being seen as not absolutely right, but if he saw that everyone in his congregation studied the Bible more to get answers, that is great fruit.
The Personality of Truth-Seeking
Truth seeks exposure. Deception seeks control.
Truth is not owned by experts or those in authority. Truth has its own authority and is different than appointed authority. Sometimes honesty finds truth faster than research.
Do Not Dare Rise Above God or Jesus
Here is a scripture universally accepted but almost never practiced.
But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Christ. greatest among you shall be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. Matthew 23:8-12
This is not a rejection of church positions, but clearly it defines final authority and right priorities.
Overseers are not Owners
Overseers are clearly informed they do not own God’s people, but to be careful with their hearts and their influence over those whom God has purchased with Jesus’ blood.
Watch out for yourselves and for all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God that he obtained with the blood of his own Son. Acts 20:28
Jesus in Trouble with Leaders
The Pharisees were the spiritual leaders in Christ’s time. Jesus was not invited by the Pharisees to teach, and especially not welcome to teach in contradiction to what the Pharisees were teaching.
Did Jesus sin? Of course not.
Parents & Government
Obeying human authority blindly seems to be biblically reserved for only parents and government.
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. Romans 13:1-2
If you are intrigued or questioning that this is government, not church, read the rest of Romans 13 about this being the reason we pay taxes and these authorities having the power to punish wrongdoers.
Ours is a lifelong journey of prioritizing love more than doctrine. In fact, love is the main doctrine, and the doctrine is not knowledge, but practice. Meanwhile, God promises hypocrisy will not go unpunished.
Favorite Scripture or False Doctrine?
Yes, we are to obey God rather than man, but we must ALWAYS reconcile ALL scripture. As I have said before, when there are seemingly contradictory scriptures, we cannot choose one verse and reject the other. We must spend time to reconcile them asking the Holy Spirit to help us understand ALL scripture.
The Bible is our final filter to help our discernment for what is true and false and what we allow to influence our thoughts, lives, and destiny.
Is 80 Years Enough to Know Everything?
On this short journey called life, God reveals His power and wisdom throughout nature and reveals Himself personally to those who seek Him, we never know it all, even if we live to be 100.
Let's face it, a 99-year old man would be like a naïve teen 6,000 years ago, before the flood. There were men around who were 300, 500, 800 years old and older who would laugh at any 99-year old saying he was old and wise. I believe 800 year olds were still learning, don’t you?
Doctrine or Love?
Although I would love to see and even participate in open debate on some theological matters, I can tell you there are enough theological books to fill many libraries. Honestly, theology gets old. Do you know what never gets old? Love. That is our flag. Jesus said they will know we are Christians, not by our doctrine, but by our love.
By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:35
I’ve met too many unloving Christians who prioritize doctrine. Truth sets free and lies bring bondage, but love is the mark of a disciple of Christ.
Of course, there is so much more to our faith than any one motto or verse, but this is surely worth remembering.
Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. I John 4:7-8
Thank you for sharing such a thought-provoking article. Your emphasis on prioritizing scripture over doctrine and the importance of love as the true mark of a disciple deeply resonates. It’s a refreshing reminder that our faith should be defined by how we love one another, as Christ commanded, rather than merely by our adherence to doctrine. I appreciate your call to engage with the entirety of scripture with humility and openness, and your insights into the importance of truth-seeking and love are truly inspiring. This article is a timely and powerful message for us all to reflect on.
“Toward the Good” in acrylic by Myra Alibrando
Myra, your painting is absolutely mesmerizing! The way you've captured the depth and mystery of the forest is both captivating and enchanting. I feel as though I am being drawn into the heart of the woods, with the warm glow of light filtering through the trees, inviting me to explore further. The rich browns, greens, and earthy tones of the forest floor blend so naturally, creating an almost mystical pathway that beckons me forward.
The contrast between the dark, shadowy trees and the vibrant light at the center adds such a dramatic effect. It feels like a hidden world is waiting just beyond the path, full of life and secrets. I can almost feel the cool air of the forest and the texture of the leaves underfoot. Your attention to detail, especially in how the light plays off the trees and leaves, is stunning. The greens seem to dance in the shadows, while the warm colors of the forest floor bring everything together beautifully.
Your ability to evoke a sense of mystery and wonder in this piece is truly special. It inspires me to reflect on the beauty and serenity of nature. Keep creating, Myra! As Van Gogh once said, "If you hear a voice within you say 'you cannot paint,' then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced." Your talent is a gift, and the world needs to see more of it!