This weekend we talked about how throughout the generations we have digested scripture and asked some tough questions to determine if the practices in the Bible are the eternal and full will of God for us, or if they are practices of the time and location in which they were written. We looked at scripture regarding slavery and recognize that there are 326 verses that deal with slavery and only 2 condemn the practice. We also talk about how our understanding of the role of women had changed throughout time. Jesus turned the role of women upside down as he allowed them to be at his side to learn and bring the Good News to others. Churches are still divided on the role and extent that women can have in the life of the church (slavery though we are all very clear on).
It is fair to say that one of the issues that caused much friction today is over sexuality. There are 8 or so verses that address this issue. Jesus doesn’t say anything about it like he does with the role of women. The scriptures are:
- Genesis 19
- Judges 19
- Jude 1:6-7 (referring back to the Gen. scripture)
- Leviticus 18:22
- Leviticus 20:13
- Romans 1:26-27
- 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (male prostitutes and their suitors)
- 1 Timothy 6:9-10 (referring back to the Leviticus passages)
Through these scriptures as we wrestle with them we ask if this is the eternal will and character of God or not?
A final word about the sexuality conversation. At FaithPoint, we understand that we are not all going to come down on the same side of this conversation. Many very faithful people don’t see eye to eye on this issue. However we do affirm that the church MUST be a place that welcomes and encourages all on their journey of faith.
In interpreting these scriptures we will inform our own personal understanding of what God’s will and character is for us today. We not only have scripture but also some other tools to our disposal when we seek a better understanding of God’s will for our lives in the large and small decisions in life. These tools make up something that we call the Wesleyan Quadrilateral today.
This weeks video breaks it down a little bit.
3 Comments
Nathan D. Herman
One important portion of this message is that it begins and returns to scripture. While every word I’ve heard and read this week was valuable, I can’t help but question the implication that human reason and experience are equal to the inspired Word of God. Not every direction that society takes us is lead by the Spirit (witness sex and violence on TV). Society, “human reason,” and “experience” tell us to be much more open to “sexual immorality” that is repeatedly condemned throughout the bible. Including the New Testament and even Jesus himself. Should we dismiss that as directed at the time? Now that we have prophylactics, medicines, and MTV, we don’t need to worry about that any more?
I am not yet convinced that I should follow modern wisdom more-so than Paul’s and Jesus’ wisdom regarding sexual immorality or marriage.
I evidently believe the Bible is more valuable, timeless, and directly applicable to All of God’s people. While it certainly was directed to the people at the time, I believe God had the ability to make, especially the New Testament, very applicable to those who are living with his Holy Spirit until His return.
Carol Dee Wingfield Myers
Thank you, Nathan.
Chris Bishop
Nathan D. Herman you are spot on. Scripture does hold the prime seat in the conversation. I have come of think of this Wesleyan Quadrilateral as more of a trapezoid than a perfect square with scripture getting the largest side.
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