Head in the Sand?

A few months ago, late in the week, a person was killed and it immediately went viral on social media. It was the lead story in every news outlet. The following Monday my wife read aloud a quote from someone saying that every preacher in the U.S. should have spoken to his/her congregation about the injustice. Then my wife said, “You don’t really know what he’s talking about, do you?” (I didn’t.)

As I write this (early January) I don’t know the status of the presidential election brouhaha.

It was two days after the storming of the capitol building in Washington by...some people...before I heard about it, again through my wife.

A religious blog that I follow told me how important it is for me to be knowledgeable of current events so that I can be an effective minister. (By the way, the blogger thought his book would help me too.) In another blog, a well-respected preacher stressed that I should avoid ignoring the cultural issues of our day. He said that I could break free and see beyond my blind spots and begin to think clearly, correctly and even biblically...if I read a book he recommended (and donated to his ministry).

I will admit that I don’t keep up with the latest news. Yet, I am not culturally ignorant. I have been able to minister to people, and I know that I have been able to “think clearly, correctly and even biblically.”

Do you know why I can make such a strong statement? 

I keep reading God’s book.

The Bible has not defined my culture, but it has taught me how to thrive in my culture, whether a democracy, socialist republic, dictatorship, monarchy or simple household in the woods.

The Bible has not predicted recent events, but it has prepared me for each day, whether for the mundane daily grind or unexpected events. I have learned about human nature and do not find recent events to be surprising. Nor do I feel the need to react to these events. I’ve learned what is in the heart of man and how to respond. (The following have been especially helpful: Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Philippians 4:4-13)

The Bible doesn’t tell me whether or not to vote, but I have learned the things that are important to God, and that guides me at the polls.

The Bible doesn’t tell me what to eat or what to wear, but I know the value of self-discipline and modesty, and I know how to help those in need of food and clothing.

On one occasion some Jews reported to Jesus “about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices” (Luke 13). That headline news was little different in magnitude than the storming of our nation’s capitol. The people wanted Jesus to give His opinion. Let me paraphrase His sharp response: Well, do you think that misfortune was because they were worse sinners? Unless you change your thinking, you will be no different and will also perish.

I do not have to know my culture according to someone else’s assessment to know how to love God and live a godly life. I do not have to respond or react to the latest cultural issues to know how to love my neighbor—the neighbor who lives in my neighborhood!

I need to let God’s word educate me about my culture and the ways of mankind. I need to be controlled by God’s Spirit, not human intellect and emotion. (I learned this by giving attention to Galatians 5:14-16; Romans 12:1-2)

My perceptions and opinions should be rooted in God’s word, not swayed by cultural norms and media frenzy. (Here's why I am convinced of this: John 8:32-33; Psalm 119)

Is your head in the sand???

Mark Stinnett

January 24, 2021