Where Does the Bible Specifically
Condemn That?
Here's a question often asked, and it can be asked about many things. Besides
misunderstanding the nature not only of biblical authority but of communication
itself, the question is typically geared toward defending a practice that is
likely questionable to begin with. After all, we don't ask this question if
we know we are on solid ground for a practice. If positive authority can be
supplied, we will supply it. The question is then pointless.
Part of the mistake of this type of question is the misunderstanding of how
communication works. It is essentially arguing that in order for something to
be "wrong," it must be specified as being wrong. How many of us communicate
this way? "But you didn't specifically say not to throw these hot coals
at my brother's face." Conversely, many argue that in order for something
to be authorized, it must be specified. Neither is true, and neither will be
consistently applied.
The Scriptures both provide and deny authority through its various principles
without spelling everything out in detail, and the Lord expects us to grow to
maturity enough to figure this out.
"But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses
trained to discern good and evil" (Hebrews 5:14).
"Where does the Bible specifically condemn that?" is aimed at wanting
to practice something when the questioner knows that positive authority is absent
whether through specifics or princples. This is not a mature question.
Sadly, when people are committed to practicing something, a question like this
will not be enough anyway. If they want to practice something badly enough,
they will find a way to practice it (as has been well seen in the same-sex practice
debate, though Scripture clearly condemns it). They may take solace in the idea
that the Bible doesn't specifically condemn what they want to do, but neither
can they provide biblical warrant for it. That doesn't matter. They want to
do something, so they'll do it.
In the end, we still must ask, are we seeking God's will or our own? Are we
seeking to glorify God or ourselves? Are we speaking from God's authority or
our own?
"He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory" (John 7:18).
If that doesn't give us enough pause to be careful, what will?
By Doy Moyer
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