In addition, I also have my “TOP 5.” This is the list of books that have revolutionized my thinking in one way or another. One such book is, Finding the Will of God: A Pagan Notion? by Bruce Waltke.

I have found this book to be so amazing that I based a sermon on it that never fails to generate all sorts of feedback. Mostly good, mind you.

I’ve uploaded the sermon here. You’ll see a remarkable similarity with the book, and I always try to since people to Waltke when they ask for any further clarification. I hope you enjoy.

KermitJr

- KermitJr

I realized that truth when the preacher made the statement, “I expect you all have your Bibles, don’t you?” Don’t get me wrong… I think we should bring our Bibles… but for the right reason. Not because we never took it out of the car this past week.

I often talk about the Life Values System. In fact, spend any amount of time in serious conversation with me, and I will mention it directly or indirectly. Even if I don’t say it, I’m thinking of how it applies. Why? Because even though it may not be in Scripture, I have no doubt that it is Scriptural. The difference? The former is the “letter of the Law.” The latter is the “spirit of the law.” I’ll go with door number two, Bob.

Now, I only compare myself to Christ in private (I’m too embarrassed to discuss my myriad of shortcomings publicly), so don’t think that I’m trying to toot my horn too loudly here. But have you ever noticed how little Christ actually “quoted” Scripture. In fact, He had a few critics who pointed out that very thing, but would anyone actually argue that what He said was unScriptural? Of course not. He made His points outside of Scripture using stories or scenarios that related only in their theme. He taught in parables.

Again, I recognize my shortcoming in comparison with Christ, but I can’t help but think that some people have the specific ability to exegete Scripture. That’s great. Others have the ability to be storytellers. Not those that simply read, mind you, but the kind that are able to have the listener be wrapped up in what they are hearing. If the story is to maintain its parable nature, recognize that proper exegesis has to have already have taken place. That is why the thrust always has such impact without the obvious having to be said!

Think of how different a place it would be if Christians, instead of quoting Scripture and “throwing it in peoples faces” instead made it a point to live it out without having to quote it to the person (or perhaps cause someone asking about their motives in a positive light). Quoting is easier than living it out. Talk versus walk and all that. Make your life a parable that honors God.

See you soon,
KermitJr.