Bible Bashers
Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
~ 2 Peter 1:20-21 (NIV)
There is an odd group of people in the world — including atheist “professors of religion” at a large universities — whose primary goal in life seems to be to discredit the Bible. They do not simply argue apologetics—i.e., make reasoned arguments that support or undermine such questions as the existence of God, the truth of the Bible, the divinity of Christ, etc. Rather, they are seized by an emotional hatred of Christianity. They will grasp at any straw, tell any lie, distort any passage in order to make fun of the Bible and ridicule its adherents.
Do not be dismayed by such people. They are the tools of Satan. They are the “lawlessness” that 2 Thessalonians tells us will precede the rise of the Antichrist. “For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work.” (2 Thessalonians 2:7) 2 Thessalonians goes on to describe how the wicked will tell lies, and God will actually delude people who do not believe in him, because those who will die will believe the falsehoods and deception.
We don’t have time or space here even to outline why such attacks are incorrect. We hope you will continue following Daily Prayer, where we do treat these matters in depth, from time to time. For example, there are parts of the Bible that seem inconsistent or even contradictory. If you are ever confronted by a person spouting off about contradictions, and do not know the answer, what might you say? I'd suggest, “That’s interesting, I’ll have to look into it.” There’s no reason to be defensive.
Anyone who does not think that the end of the world is slowly working its way to fruition should pay attention to these people. They remind me of the Jews, soldiers, and others who stood at the foot of the cross, mocking Christ. The two groups have the same sarcastic delight, and share the same stupidity and short-sightedness.
Do not let yourself be discouraged, troubled, flustered, or even hurt by these people. Simply don't bother with them. They are lost souls and, like the great Tempter himself, they will do or say anything to pull you away from your salvation. You are going to live and they are going to die. Time and time again we witness people full of shouting, mocking bravado, who are silenced only by the defeat that they thought impossible. They will never be convinced and they will never be embarrassed when proven absolutely wrong.
One of the great strengths of our belief is the conviction of the Holy Spirit. We walk in total confidence in Christ. We have been called to it, somehow. I believe in free will and I believe every person can hear the call if they only listen; but even if I am wrong, I know that I have been called by God, for I can see it in my actions. He has changed me. I am, “warts and all,” part of the proof of His truth.
“Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’” (1 Peter 1:13-16)
Lord Christ, my faith in you is steadfast, my love for you is absolute, and my thankfulness for your grace will endure unto all eternity. Amen.In Jesus,
Chaplain Kenny
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Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Devotion written by Mason Barge, Editor, Daily Prayer.
There is an odd group of people in the world whose primary goal in life seems to be to discredit the Bible.
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