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I’m almost afraid to write this for fear that someone will be offended at what they might see as an improper approach to scripture. But I agree with author Ed Cyzewski, who wrote in his newsletter:

I wrote A Christian Survival Guide after going through a bit of a faith crisis and deconstruction/reconstruction. [Bob’s note: I have not read this book.]

I watched someone quite close to me lose her faith over a series of debatable Bible teachings that were presented as black and white, take it or leave it.

My premise for the book was that folks needed to know that there was a whole range of belief within the Christian faith.

Before dropping your faith because of some [specific] theology, consider that there are many other traditions that can be constructive, life-giving, and (wait for it…) “biblical.”

He went on to say, “I entered my 20’s trying to become an expert in Bible study, and I’m departing my 30’s trying to be still and quiet before a loving God.”

I couldn’t agree more. I’ve been around people who obsessed over every detail but seemed to fall short putting any of it into practice. They remind me of the “religion scholars and leaders” who assembled with the Chief Priest to condemn Jesus to death (see Matthew 27.57, 59). They not only found him guilty, an inevitable decision since they didn’t accept his identity as the Messiah, they also resorted to violence and mockery: “They were spitting in his face and banging him around. They jeered as they slapped him: “Prophesy, Messiah: Who hit you that time?” (Matthew 27.67, 68, MSG)

In our day, some of the most virulent “Christian” material you will read is by people denouncing the beliefs of fellow believers, sometimes over technicalities or, as Ed wrote, debatable issues.

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (James 1.22, NIV)

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13.34, 35, NIV)

Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. (John 17.3, NIV)