Those of us raised in the Christian tradition need to choose to either see God in Jesus or to continue to let the Bible define God. Our tradition says that Jesus is God. Maybe we should act as if we think he is instead of worshipping a book. Maybe we should be brave enough to admit that we are compelled to either become blinded ideologues or we need to forthrightly pick and choose what we follow in the Bible. Most Christians do that anyway, many just don’t admit it.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of personal belief in Jesus over strict adherence to biblical texts.
In this quote, Frank Schaeffer argues that individuals raised in the Christian faith should choose to perceive Jesus as the embodiment of God rather than solely relying on the written scriptures. He suggests that many Christians selectively interpret the Bible according to their beliefs, and encourages a more authentic relationship with God through Jesus, rather than just worshipping the text itself.
In practice
During a church discussion about faith, this quote can be used to encourage open dialogue on personal beliefs.
Our government rests upon religion. It is from that source that we derive our reverance for truth and justice, for equality and liberty, and for the rights of mankind. Unless the people believe in these principles they cannot believe in our government.
If you use your mind to study reality, you won't understand either your mind or reality. If you study reality without using your mind, you'll understand both.
It may be that there is no such thing as an equable motion, whereby time may be accurately measured. All motions may be accelerated or retarded, but the true, or equable, progress of absolute time is liable to no change.
A state of war is not a blank check... when it comes to the rights of the Nation's citizens.
Let us first be as simple and well as Nature ourselves, dispel the clouds which hang over our brows, and take up a little life into our pores. Do not stay to be an overseer of the poor, but endeavor to become one of the worthies of the world.
The myth of unending consumption has taken the place of the belief in life everlasting.
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