ANTI-SCRIPTURAL VS. UN-SCRIPTURAL

In my opinion, one of the greatest journeys taken by men is the journey of restoring the New Testament Church. Throughout the history of the church, one learns of countless numbers of people who tried to reform and even restore the church to what God’s intention was for His body. Although people like Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Alexander Campbell were imperfect in their theology (as are all of us), they truly are some of the stepping stones for the movement to return to the followers God intended. Whether we agree with the philosophy and theology of those who have gone before us or not, we must realize that they played a large part in where we are today. I pray you have had the blessing of studying about these great men of faith and their challenging examples!

A common phrase heard throughout the Restoration plea was “speak where the Bible speaks and be silent where the Bible is silent.” This wonderful phrase has, at times, been taken out of its original context and meaning. It was never intended to be a “letter of the law” rule, but an idea. It was intended to rally people behind God’s Word and learn the difference between human tradition (or church created tradition) and God’s teaching (although it is VERY important to seek God’s intentions of each matter). Along with this idea of discerning God’s Will for His people, we must understand the difference between “un-scriptural” and “anti-scriptural.” The first question many go to on a matter is “is this un-scriptural?” This, however, is the wrong question to be asking. As we discussed in the Wisdom Literature, the correct question to ask is “Is this wise to do?” The question will then be answered by whether it is anti-scriptural (or against Christ’s teachings). We do many “un-scriptural” things such as purchasing a building, using multiple cups during the Lord’s Supper, and using song books/PowerPoint. Although these are “un-scriptural” I’m sure we all agree that they are not “anti-scriptural.” Infant baptism, claims that Jesus is not the Messiah, and lying are only a few examples of things that are “anti-scriptural.” However, it is important to realize that the ultimate question (after asking what God has to say about it and so forth) is “Is this the WISE thing to do?” Sometimes it may not be anti-scriptural but it may also not be the wise choice. For example, burning a bush on stage to illustrate Moses’ encounter with God is not un-scriptural but I think we would all agree it is not the WISE thing to do.

—Josh
“Try great things for God and expect great things from Him!”