Misunderstanding God's Word - Part 1 of Four 

We as Christians should take God's Word into our hearts daily so we can call upon scriptures in times of stress and temptation just as Jesus did in the wilderness when Satan tempted Him. But, there are times we twist and shape scriptures incorrectly to meet our need at the time.

 “Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 MSG) The Holy Scriptures are God’s Divine Revelation to us but it can be dangerous when used incorrectly. Over the next three columns we are going to explore some favorite scriptures that we have heard preached, taught and quoted for years but interpreted  (maybe not on purpose) to fit our topic or occasion.

I would like to begin this series of columns by stating that I believe that the Bible was written by nearly 40 authors, divinely inspired over a period of 1500 years. The Bible is consistent and does not contradict itself. The Bible has stood the test over the years by many who would attack it’s truthfulness and integrity but the Holy Word has stood the test.

 So let’s get started on our quest of Biblical interpretation and as we do let’s consider that when we fall into the temptation to misuse or manipulate God’s Word we run the risk of leading others astray.

How many times have you heard, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (Matthew 18:20 ESV) This Scripture has been used to open a Bible studies, Prayer Meetings and I’ll confess I used it once in topical sermon. In each case the verse was taken out of context to fit the situation. “Where two or more are are gathered, Jesus says He’ll be there. It’s a great promise. But let’s be fair anytime you sit down to your quite, worship, have fellowship or any Christian gathering we can rest assured the spiritual presence will be there. In Matthew 28:20 the promise even extends to “the end of the age”

If we go back into Matthew Chapter 18 we see a specific tone to these words. Jesus wasn’t talking about a prayer meeting or a Bible study. The topic was Church Discipline. Jesus was teaching his disciples and those who followed him how to handle sin and conflict. This discourse immediately follows the parable of the lost sheep which addresses how we should restore someone who has gone astray. Then uses the parable of the unmerciful servant who would not forgive a debt after he had been forgiven a debt He could not pay. Jesus paints a beautiful picture of how we should address those who have gone astray (discipline) and forgive (grace) those who have wronged us.

So here is an example of Christ teaching of how we should not ignore interpersonal sin and conflict and in contrast be committed to developing and maintaining healthy, wholesome (fully reconciled) relationships. Interesting, all this time I thought Jesus was talking about a prayer meeting. Maybe you did too. Join me next week as we explore how Christians should discipline their brother and sisters. In addition, we us m Blog as a Discussion Board during this series. God bless and remember, “Nothing that happens to you is a surprise to God.”