Jeremy Hoover

In an earlier post, I discussed how the ways we interpret and read the bible can actually conflict with the transforming power of the bible to shape us. That begs this question: What does it mean to take the bible seriously?

For example, if you believe that the whole goal of Christianity is to get worship and church organization "right", then you will look to emphasize those parts of the bible that speak to that issue (and there aren't many). But may I suggest that such an approach actually undermines the bible.

The bible itself does not set that out as a goal. The goal of the bible is that we would be formed as the people of God. In the Old Testament, this takes shape around God's character, and in the New, around Jesus himself. Thus Romans 12:1-2, Ephesians 4:20, etc.

But the formation many seek is around the "right" Christian practices, specifically in worship. This, however, is a false goal and can become an idol. It also creates the scenario by which church members can be cold and frigid towards each other and do very little ministry but still think they are a biblical church.

To really do what the bible says, to take it seriously enough to actually obey it, we need to begin by reading the bible. This may sound like common sense, but too much supposed reading of the bible concentrates around reading select, favorite passages or in "studying" lists or booklets that organize and systematize the biblical materials into doctrines.

But the danger of actually reading the bible means you may come into contact with teachings that will challenge you! (This is also the joy of reading the bible!) This is what many want to avoid. They want a safe Christianity, something known, whereby they can "go to church" on Sunday and maybe on Wednesday, sit in the pew, consume religious projects, and go home without feeling that they need to do more. Perhaps they'll also look to be moral during the week.

The bible can be very dangerous--it calls us to more. It calls us to come out of ourselves; it rebukes us; it confronts us; it affirms us; and all this, sometimes even in the same passage!

In Mark 10:46-52, the gospel relates the story of Bartimaeus, the blind man who called out to Jesus, against the wishes of the crowd, until Jesus finally answered him. When Jesus called him, he cast off his cloak so he would be unhindered as he made his way to Jesus, seeking mercy.

This story challenges me in a deep way, as I wrestle with these questions: Would I rather sit on the sidelines and solve my problem myself? Do I have the courage to admit my weakness to Jesus? Do I have the courage to cry out to him around other people who will see my weakness? Do I really see that I need mercy? Can I overcome my need to see the problems in others in order to see where I truly lack? Will I keep calling out to Jesus until he responds? Will I cast off whatever holds me back from going to him?

These questions confront and challenge me. I'm affirmed in my faith but challenged to step up and out. Real bible reading does this to us. But we have to read.

To take the bible seriously, we need to read it, read whole sections of it (not just verses), and work our way through books of it, both Old and New Testaments.

Then we must do the most dangerous thing of all--apply it!