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Foundation ... spire

Sunday, April 6, 2008

1 Peter 1:20-21
Jesus was known before the foundation of the world but revealed in these last times for you. Through him you believe in God.

I just didn't believe that Jesus could be God, or part of God. The first three verses of Hebrews threw me out of gear. And the first three verses of John. And then there is this verse in 1 Peter.

All of these writers refer back to the creation, the foundation of the world. How could they have dared to write such things about a time before history, before writing, certainly before they were even gleams in their parents' eyes? Jesus was born and died like every man. What made them so certain that he was more than everyman, that he was God?

Church doctrine regarding Jesus' nature, both human and divine, referred back to his own words about himself, Old Testament predictions and prophecies, and finally to his physical resurrection. Christians continue to defend this doctrine above all others.

Of course it does a body good to have a moment alone with the Savior - visitation in the winter woods, waking up to him sitting on the bed, hearing his voice clearly. No one else need verify or believe these experiences; they are powerful and transformative when God wants them to be.

But there is also the "doctrine," a word that makes me think of witches burned at the stake, inquisition, closed-minded clergy who are proud of their position and afraid of challenge. That notwithstanding, I think "doctrine" could better be associated with the search for truth, with man's unwillingness to be saddled with lies, with our constant yearning for the divine.

A couple chapters later, Peter writes, "In your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15). The only "reason for the hope" is Jesus. Jesus brings me out of death into life (even in spite of my own efforts to resist) only if he is God.

Yet I can only say this gently to my friend. With respect for everything God made to be my friend - feelings, thoughts, desires. How can I, who certainly wasn't present at the foundation of the world, say with grating arrogance, "I have the answer!"

It's a sweet challenge to live and share with others in the tension between this arrogance ... and the assurance encouraged by sound doctrine and personal experience. God help us all.

Put reins on my fast words, Lord, and make my speech sweet to you.



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