Ignorant I Was
I remember two years ago, when I made a post on "Anointing oil". I strongly believed I was right about my aired assertion. I believed the Holy Ghost could be bottled, turned to a soup oil, then used for whatever spiritual practice.
I received countless diametric opinions, mercilessly spurred unto me with anger. I went far into blocking certain friends who negated the post. I thought anyone who had a different belief from what I thought was the truth, was a 'weed' that needed to be disposed. I believed any opinionated view inconsistent with mine could be toxicant to my faith. Oh, how ignorant I was!
I lengthily argued with everyone with opposing views. In fact, I almost blocked someone who's now one of my good daddies on this platform. If he's reading this, I'm sure he'd remember.
Thanks to God, my eyes opened, and I got to understand better.
Permit me to advise you:
It happens. A friend or church member must have stated a belief that you're fairly certain is incorrect Biblically. You sense a need to state another position — the position you believe is biblically accurate.
Here are some thoughts to consider as you prepare to address such an issue:
1. CHECK YOUR HEART:
Is your goal to lovingly help someone reconsider the Word, or is it to show your theological prowess? Be honest with this question, as most of us seldom recognize our arrogance.
2. CHECK YOUR OWN THEOLOGY:
It's possible that your position isn't tenable, either. Just because you believe it strongly doesn't necessarily mean your belief is accurate.
3. Remember that many believers in have never been discipled. That is to say, some Christians have come to their theological conclusions without much guidance. If they're in error, they probably got there honestly.
4. Remember that how you say what you say will determine whether you're heard. Your position might be the correct one, but the haughtiness with which you speak may clog the ears of the one you seek to teach. In that case, you too need correction.
5. Let the Word speak for itself. State your position, but do it properly from the Word.
"I'm not sure where the Bible says it, but it does" is insufficient. A doctrine without the Bible can quickly become only an opinion.
6. Offer to meet and study the topic more – with a willingness on your part to learn as well. Consider inviting another believer (perhaps a pastor) to join you. Be teachable as you teach, correctable as you correct and humble as you lead.
7. Keep studying. None of us know everything. Continually learning not only grows us, but it also has a way of keeping us humble.
Remain blessed.
#Olatunji
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