A lot of people like sports. Many have favourite teams. The World Cup is now being played in Brazil. Who do you cheer for in soccer (or hockey, golf, tennis, baseball)?

soccer20327501But do you play those sports?

Christians play the same way. They know systems of interpretation of the Bible. They read the popular authors and discuss the models presented for understanding. Obviously only Evangelical teachers are followed (or Liberal, or Pentecostal, whatever your religious loyalty may be). And so factual accuracy rests within your parish of limitations.

However, Truth is Jesus, not facts, knowledge, systems or theological theories. Most Christians sigh, tilt their heads and say, “Of course”. And then they debate the supremacy of one school of thought over another.

Let me be as clear and simple as possible. No system or theory or fad or movement or theological teaching is worth anything. None of them. They simply rattle around in our skull. If even our righteousness (doing the right things in the right way for the right reasons) is no better than rags (Isaiah 64:6), then surely our mere interpretations are no better than dirty toilet paper!

As a spectator I know the rules and theories of certain sports, well enough that I could be a referee. I can offer a critique on how a game was played and the errors and accomplishments of the players. But I don’t play sports – so big deal.

No one will ever think we belong to Jesus because of our doctrines. Instead, according to Jesus, “Everyone will know that you are my disciples because of your love for each other” (John 13:35 God’s Word ©)

argument4392121So, “Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments. You know they cause quarrels. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel… must be kind to everyone…be a good teacher… willing to suffer wrong… be gentle in correcting those who oppose the Good News. Maybe God will allow them to change the way they think and act and lead them to know the truth. Then they might come back to their senses and God will free them from the devil’s snare so that they can do his will” (2 Timothy 2:23-26 God’s Word ©).

Likewise, “Avoid foolish controversies, arguments about genealogies, quarrels, and fights about Moses’ Teachings. This is useless and worthless. Have nothing to do with people who continue to teach false doctrine after you have warned them once or twice. You know that people like this are corrupt. They are sinners condemned by their own actions” (Titus 3:9-11 God’s Word ©).

In the end, do you aim to win out over others, or lose yourself in Jesus?