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Wisdom at the Office
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Currently Reading: "The Bible Jesus Read" by Philip Yancey
Have to thank Auntie Julie for lending me this enlightening book to read. I'm not really into books so I was really surprised to find myself drawn to this interesting paperback. (Sad to say, the only books I've read from cover to cover were my cooking books... ^_^)
I love the fact he stated that the Old Testament shows a gradual but certain movement towards grace. Many do not realise this but the Old Testament is full of examples showing God's grace and mercy to His people, but it's a pity a lot of us (including me in the past) kept on focusing on God's supernatural ability to destroy heaps of people in ways the modern army could only dream of. Can't say I really agree with everything in this book, mainly because I believe firmly in the finished work of Christ.
In the first few chapters, he states Romans 11:22 which is about Paul telling us Christians about considering the kindness and sternness of God. He stops there and concludes that he would rather not only consider the kindness of God, but rely on God's self-revelation; potentially opening himself up to the sternness and judgemental of God. Trouble with this is Romans 11 talks about Israel's rejection of Jesus Christ and His grace. The severity of God only falls on those (Israel) who have rejected God; those who have broken off due to unbelief and as a result were hardened to the Good news of God's Son. Furthermore, Paul says that if you continue in His goodness, goodness will fall on you. This sounds very familiar to the Good news of Jesus Christ, don't you agree? ^_^
(*Note: when Paul writes that we continue in His goodness, it should not be mis-read as continuing to do good. You see, good works and behaviour comes out from knowing God's goodness. Basically, it's a fruit of experiencing the goodness of God. What that verse was implying is that if we allow ourselves to continue allowing our Father to let us experience His goodness, goodness will fall on you. If you don't agree with my point, just reflect back on the words, "His goodness" and let God reveal the truth to you. Trust me it works, because He revealed it to me. ^_^) Oh and also, I don't think God's covenant people Israel will stay in God's sternness for too long cause Romans 11:30-32 says that through their disobedience, we (all of us) have obtained mercy. And by the mercy shown to us, they (Israel) also may obtain mercy. Man... I like this chapter! ^_^
Nonetheless, this is only one of a few (I'm surprised that there isn't much more) things that I don't look eye to eye with. Its not a big deal, but I'm glad that the Lord revealed to me his intention for Romans 11 not as a judgement verse, but rather one to affirm and encourage His children (you and me ^_^).
Upon reading further, I've grown to love and respect the way Philip conveys his message across to the reader because he's not restrained by old traditions or religiosity, but rather follows God's inspiration and revelation. Any hint of religious thinking or old pious dogma always tends to send warning lights flashing in my Spirit.
Very soon I found myself reading this book with a peace in my soul so much so that I kinda enjoyed it
(Great job Philip... you've succeeded in making me fall in love with a bundle of literature) ^_^
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