Preaching or philosophizing?

‭”Beware lest anyone captivate you through philosophy and vain deceit, in the tradition of men and the elementary principles of the world, and not after Christ.” Colossians 2:8

Man’s enemy, the devil, is a deceiver. Lies are his language. He attacks and hates the truth. The first thing he says in the Old Testament (Genesis 3) is that he questions God’s word. The first thing he says in the New Testament (Matthew 4) is that he questions that Jesus is the Son of God. That the Bible is the word of God and that Jesus is the Son of God are two cornerstones of the Christian faith. If we don’t have that foundation, we have nothing at all. But now we have that revelation, so let’s use, cherish and spread it.

We quickly get into side tracks that lead us completely wrong and drain us of power if we open up to the philosophical. After all, philosophy is about thinking about what is not obvious and clear. But the Bible is clear. Most of the Bible is crystal clear and distinct and nothing you need to think about. You just have to read, believe and practice. So simple and so powerful. Let the Bible explain and interpret itself. Philosophizing about the obvious is like sitting in the sunshine and wondering if the sun is shining, instead of just enjoying it.

When Jesus was tempted by the devil, He quoted the word of God – It is written…!! Let us follow Jesus’ example.

If the Bible is the word of God, then it means that it is God who says something. Then who am I to question or change what God says. The question then becomes – Do I believe and obey?

Don’t complicate the Christian message. It is simple, powerful and the solution to the challenges of this world and the afterlife. The Bible’s message is true. And with the truth is meant not only what God expects from us, but at least as much about God’s incredible, powerful and amazing grace, forgiveness, love and power that can help you. Together with God all things are possible.

If you are a preacher, first make sure you yourself believe and obey God’s word. Then give people the word of God, which is real food and which strengthens, guides and protects. 

Those who do not want to obey God’s word must be held accountable before God. Let them ponder, turn and twist the self-evident and obvious truths. But, don’t let them spread their pondering (read: disobedience) from the pulpits. 

‭”For also it is contained in the Scripture, “Look! I lay in Zion a chief cornerstone, elect, precious, and he who believes in Him shall never be put to shame.” Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious. But to those who are disobedient, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,” and, “A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense.” They stumble because they are disobedient to the word, to which also they were appointed.” 1 Peter 2:6-8

Preach and proclaim what God says and may man listen and walk with God.

God bless you.