We’re Still Studying That
I cannot begin to remember all of the times I’ve heard somebody say, “We’re still studying that.” Those who know my background have probably already assumed (correctly) that this is usually said in a religious context. In other words, what is still being studied is what the Bible has to say about some doctrine, practice, etc.
I am, in no way, opposed to the practice of studying the Bible. In fact, I firmly believe that all of us, including me, could benefit greatly from doing more of that. Many will remember this very positive description of people who lived in Berea and to whom the gospel had been preached:
Now these Jews were noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the scriptures daily to see if these things were so (Acts 17:11, ESV).
I am also aware of the fact that Paul wrote that he had been given the opportunity/responsibility “…to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Eph. 3:8, ESV). I understand that, and a host of other scriptures, to teach that nobody has a complete understanding of all of the nuances of everything in the Bible about God, His nature, His message, etc.
What I’m about to type may be seen as very judgmental, unfair, and maybe a few other things that aren’t so good. It is my prayer that none of those things are true. I’m merely sharing my experiences and observations and expressing my opinion based on them.
With all of that said, here is where I am going with this. It has been my experience that, when some group or an individual says that they are still studying some point of doctrine or practice, they rarely are seeking a way to enhance their understanding of and implementation of something they know to be true and have practiced for some time. Instead of that, what they seem to be seeking is justification for a doctrine, practice, and/or lifestyle they’ve already chosen to teach, implement, and/or follow.
After hearing that somebody is still studying something, don’t be surprised if that statement is followed sometime later with something like:
After a great deal of prayer, study of the scriptures, and discussion, it has been decided that ________________________.
I cannot remember that blank containing information that informs the readers that they can expect the doctrines that have been taught in the past, the practices of the past, and/or the lifestyles that have been expected to remain the same. Instead, the message normally is that change is coming.
Not only is change coming, but there is often a subtle or not so subtle implication that everybody needs to “get on board” with the change. Sadly, those who cannot, in good conscience, comply with that are either ostracized or, in some way, made to feel so uncomfortable that they choose to leave.
I believe that all of us would do well to read and apply a scripture that isn’t all that difficult to understand:
I therefore, a prisoner of the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:1-3).
AUTHOR: Jim Faughn