In my post on Friday I mentioned that I usually don't read "Christian books". I usually shy away from voicing certains opinions on my blog, especially concerning religion. I don't want to ever come across as an opinionated-know-it-all. I just decided to put that info about me out there because it's really who I am. I was surprised (in a good way) that a few of you also share similar feelings.
Here's my explanation.
Ten or fifteen years ago I guess you could say I was "in" with the popular religious movements of the time. I had read all of the newest Christian books and listened to the newest Christian music. I even went to all of the "right" Christian retreats, camps and conferences. I won't name names of who spoke at some of the small group retreats and large conferences that I've been to, but those indiviuals are pretty well respected in certain Christian ciricles. I'm still friends with some of those people.
I don't regret spending time with them or attending any of those events. I'm glad that was all a part of my life. Those past experienes taught me a lot.
But...
All of it left me still searching for more. I'm still searching, but I have a more mature view the older I get and the more I study the Bible.
One of the main reasons I stay away from Christian books is because I fear following after a certain person. I've been around too many people who want to quote a certain Christian author and not the Bible. Do you know what I'm talking about? I can just hear one of those conversations in my head right now--name dropping certain individuals in the conversation to sound spiritual and relevant.
In the past, I found myself reading Christian literature more than I read the Bible. (Which is my fault and not the fault of Christan literature.) The more time I spent studying the word of God the less aligned I was with the theology of many Christian authors. As a history teacher, I know that the primary source document is more accurate than a secondary source. The Bible is our primary source. There's nothing wrong with supplemental tools, they can enhance understanding and study, but when you make the secondary source your main source of spiritual study then you allow others to do the thinking for you. I had based many of my religious beliefs on what others had said and not what the Bible teaches. That's where I was 15 years ago, and it's why I don't read Christian literature today.
By all means, I'm not trying to bash Christian literature and Christian authors. These books are great if they increase your knowledge as you study. I'm sure most Christian authors have good intentions and want to encourage. If it provokes you to further study in God's word then it can't be that bad. I know many people who use Christan literature for that purpose. I unfortunately did not find it beneficial.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 are such a good verses concerning this topic.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
Here's my explanation.
Ten or fifteen years ago I guess you could say I was "in" with the popular religious movements of the time. I had read all of the newest Christian books and listened to the newest Christian music. I even went to all of the "right" Christian retreats, camps and conferences. I won't name names of who spoke at some of the small group retreats and large conferences that I've been to, but those indiviuals are pretty well respected in certain Christian ciricles. I'm still friends with some of those people.
I don't regret spending time with them or attending any of those events. I'm glad that was all a part of my life. Those past experienes taught me a lot.
But...
All of it left me still searching for more. I'm still searching, but I have a more mature view the older I get and the more I study the Bible.
One of the main reasons I stay away from Christian books is because I fear following after a certain person. I've been around too many people who want to quote a certain Christian author and not the Bible. Do you know what I'm talking about? I can just hear one of those conversations in my head right now--name dropping certain individuals in the conversation to sound spiritual and relevant.
In the past, I found myself reading Christian literature more than I read the Bible. (Which is my fault and not the fault of Christan literature.) The more time I spent studying the word of God the less aligned I was with the theology of many Christian authors. As a history teacher, I know that the primary source document is more accurate than a secondary source. The Bible is our primary source. There's nothing wrong with supplemental tools, they can enhance understanding and study, but when you make the secondary source your main source of spiritual study then you allow others to do the thinking for you. I had based many of my religious beliefs on what others had said and not what the Bible teaches. That's where I was 15 years ago, and it's why I don't read Christian literature today.
By all means, I'm not trying to bash Christian literature and Christian authors. These books are great if they increase your knowledge as you study. I'm sure most Christian authors have good intentions and want to encourage. If it provokes you to further study in God's word then it can't be that bad. I know many people who use Christan literature for that purpose. I unfortunately did not find it beneficial.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 are such a good verses concerning this topic.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
Doesn't that cover it all?
If you have any questions, feel free to email me. I'd be willing to discuss more if you are interested.
This totally makes sense to me. I just finished reading a nonfiction book called Reshaping it All by Candace Cameron Bure. I can see exactly what you're saying about letting her do the thinking for me and taking what she is saying, rather than diving into the Bible. I also let my Bible reading go on some days that I read her book. Not good! Thanks for the eye opener!
ReplyDeleteI looooved this post! Thank you for writing it.
ReplyDeleteI have some people in my life who are very big on listening to the hot pastor/teacher of the moment and name drop constantly. It's hard for me because then I feel like an idiot for not knowing about the new, hot topic. I get over that feeling when I remember that Jesus has to remain my focus. Always.
I love this post so much. I understand exactly what you are saying, and I have many of these same thoughts. I also feel like the danger is taking so much of what they say as truth, when really it might just be their opinion or their take on something. The bible is the real answer. I was watching an interview the other night of one of the very popular preachers right now, and I have to say, I always have enjoyed his uplifting message, but I felt sad b/c there seems to be nothing bible based about him.
ReplyDeleteI think you wrote this post beautifully. Very well said friend!