Luke 9:18-27
Go ahead and ask. So many places in the New Testament we see Jesus saying things that the disciples don't understand. Yet, we seldom see them stepping forward to tell Jesus, "Hey, we don't understand," or "We're confused by what you just said. Could you explain that?" That strikes me as odd as I sit here 2000+ years later reading the story. But when I put myself in their shoes and then think about the passage, the disciples' quietness makes a lot of sense. I wouldn't have wanted to look like I didn't "get it" in front of Jesus either.Now I used to react this same way at church and even with my Bible reading. But at some point it dawned on me that the only way for me to grow and learn was to just be real. So I started asking questions in my small group when I didn't understand something. (Funny thing, I discovered quickly that I wasn't the only person that didn't get it all.) But most importantly, I began talking more openly with God, telling Him what I didn't understand and asking Him for help as I read His Word. What a difference that made.
So let me leave you with this encouragement today. We aren't going to understand everything we read in the Bible. That's ok and it's normal. So take those opportunities to talk with God and grow your relationship with Him. He'll love it and so will you! Tami W.
So true. Developing that open and honest communication with God makes a difference. I guess I was looking at how I would respond as well. I don't think I would be any different than now. I have the advantage of knowing more because of the events in the Scriptures, but I would not have that benefit then. It is interesting though that the perspective of history makes us think, at times, we would be different than who we are now.
Even as a pastor of a church I have had to learn that I do not know everything, and I have to tell people that I don't know but I will look ,and study, and pray and seek GOD for the answer. I think part of our maturity as christians is being able to say I don't know what this verse is saying, can anyone help?
Very good comments Tami,Dave and Alex. Excellent advice Tami.
Joan
It's so true that we must admit when we don't understand something in order to learn. I struggle with seeking depth these days. On the surface I get what was said so I fail to dig deeper and end up unchanged by what I've read. I assume I'm not alone in that area.
I'm glad to hear the comments, and thank each one of you for making them. I am seeking depth and greater understanding, and also haven't done the needed studying that I need in some areas. I also think that if we present our requests to the Lord he is faithful to answer each one. So this is a blessing to me, and am thankful I stopped by P-4 tonight.