Scripture Battles

Most Christian know that the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan. If you are unfamiliar with this encounter, you can find the account at this link: Matthew 4: 1-11

Most who read this section of scripture notice that Satan uses the Word of God to tempt the Lord to sin.

Christians have a similar practice. They throw scripture at each other, hoping to win the other over. There are many motivations to do this: genuine concern, pride, a desire to be right, or a fear of false teachings.

This post is not directed at believers. Instead, I wish to sooth non-believers' doubts. Often when non-believers listen to Christians argue theology, they come to two dangerous conclusions: Christians aren't unified, and the Bible is full of contradiction. 

Unfortunately, we Christians have flaws... all of us. We look up the scripture that supports our claims and ignore the scripture that hurts our claims. We take scripture out of context to win an argument. 

I am not trying to judge anyone because I do this myself. I am only revealing this weakness so non-believers won't be jaded by our Christian perspectives. Instead, I long for them to search the scriptures themselves. Don't get a hand-me-down, go directly to the source.

Remember that Satan knows scripture inside and out. He chooses to dishonor it and manipulate people with it. Don't make any surface judgements about God's word. Meditate in it, soak in it, study it, and revere its power. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.