I’ll respond to a few of the points video brings up. I realize it was probably meant as a joke, but it also reflects many complaints I’ve heard before.
Near the start of the video, an animation claimed the “Holy Bible = Rule Book.” But that’s a misunderstanding of what the Bible is.
Yes, it does list some rules, but it’s far more than that. Most Bibles are over 1,000 pages long, and only a small fraction lists rules. Most of it is story telling, history, poetry, wisdom and doctrine.
Besides, "rules" does not accurately describe that small fraction of the Bible. One of the main purposes of the Bible is to teach us about God so we can have a relationship with Him, similar to a parent/child or husband/wife relationship.
Let's say you're married and your spouse wanted to let you know what her likes and dislikes are, how you can make her happy in what you say and do. She knows you tend to forget some things, so she makes a list detailing how she would like you to live out your marriage vows (love, cherish, support). What would you consider that list? They aren't things you must do. You have free will to chose what you want to do. It's just her way of reminding you "If you love me, here's the best way to show it." I wouldn't call those rules.
Think about it from the other way. If you wanted to have a loving relationship with someone, would you require them to follow a list of rules? That’s not how a healthy, loving relationship works. If the Bible was really written by God, the basis and model of a loving relationship, then why would he want a domineering relationship with us?
I’m not saying the Bible teaches we should have a marriage relationship with God. Reverential, awe-inspired respect is also part of the teaching, but having a rulebook for our relationship with God is not.
1 comment:
Thank you for the distinction. I am teaching a Sunday School and I want to have my class come up with an answer for the question; "Is the Bible a rule book? They are so quick to judge and so quick to "follow the rules." And wanting everyone else to follow the rules the way they follow them. When ever we see God seeking us out in the OT and the NT it is substantiated with the statement "I am with you." No rules have been set up. It is relationship not rules which draws our heart to Him so we might be with Him as He is with us. Thank you.
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