Mike Criswell
Many years ago, a wise preacher made an impression on me by something he said in a sermon. In discussing the question of whether or not we can understand the Bible alike, he commented, “The question is not, can we all understand the Bible ALIKE, but rather, can we all UNDERSTAND the Bible!”
I have never forgotten that profound statement. In a few short words, the preacher had hit the proverbial nail on the head. Rather than focusing on the reader’s esoteric understanding, he focused on The Revelator (God). It was absolutely brilliant!
In reality, the question the preacher raised is a troubling one. Many Bible students spend a lot of time thinking about how finite and fault-riddled humans could ever come to a singular knowledge of God’s revelation. We look around at all the religious divisions and sometimes are tempted to conclude that God’s Word must be beyond comprehension. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
I’m not suggesting that the issue of “imperfect understanding” isn’t worth considering. But to focus on all the alleged reasons we can’t understand God’s word alike is to take the focus off the Word itself. It is the Word that will judge us on the last day (John 12:47-49). The Word is a guide to our feet (Psalm 119:105). It is the Word that is perfect and converts the soul (Psalm 19:7-11). In fact, the Word (Jesus the Christ) became flesh and tented among us so we might truly experience the Word (John 1:14).
For now, let’s just leave the “alike” part out of the equation and focus on the Word.
First, God’s Word was given to mankind so we could understand and be saved. God did not give us the Word to confuse, trick, or discourage us. He gave it so we could have a relationship with Him. And even though the revealed mind of God contains many things we likely will never see alike, the things needed for salvation and a meaningful daily walk with Jesus are not difficult to understand. I’ve often said that it takes a preacher or a theologian to confuse scripture.
Scripture is the window into the infinite mind of the creator. But obviously, no window is big enough to let us see the entirety of God’s mind. His thoughts are beyond our thoughts.
Moses wrote, “The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things which are revealed and disclosed belong to us and to our children forever, so that we may do all of the words of this law” (Deuteronomy 29:29).
There are many reasons why we sometimes don’t (notice I didn’t say can’t) understand scripture alike. A host of things can muddle understanding. But consider this. What if, on the flip side of the coin, God not only judges us on understanding His Word but also judges us on our attitude toward those with whom we disagree? This is sobering.
Humans often get competitive when it comes to discussing God’s mind. Did you catch that irony? (Humans vs. God). I’ve seen people absolutely tear each other apart as they fight about some obscure/difficult bible passage. I’ve seen “formal bible events” nearly get out of hand because winning the argument apparently became more important than discovering the truth.
Just because someone can produce a lot of heat does not mean they are shedding much light. Understanding and discussing God’s word comes with responsibility. Remember the inspired words recorded by Peter, “But in your hearts revere 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).
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