* ALL Questions about the Christian Life *

[Patriot]

What does it mean to be God-centered?​

Answer

Everyone’s life has a center. Our center is the hub around which all decisions revolve. For some, survival is the hub from morning until night. For others, the acquisition of wealth or material goods drives daily choices. In many Western cultures, the center of life is pleasure-seeking, gained through entertainment and sexual deviations of every sort. But a God-centered life is one that revolves around the character of God. Decisions are made from within that center, based upon that which pleases or displeases God.

A God-centered person has found that the pursuit of God is life’s highest calling (see Jeremiah 29:13). Earthly enticements lose much of their attraction for someone who has been in the presence of the Lord God Almighty (Isaiah 6:1–5; Hosea 12:5). Attitudes, desires, and relationships are altered by that encounter, and the Word of God becomes a lifeline. A God-centered life is marked by the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). These are not personality traits that we can “work on”; they are called “fruit of the Spirit” because, as a fruit tree naturally produces fruit, a life that is fully surrendered to God naturally produces godly qualities.

God-centered people are not self-centered. God-centered people pay less attention to the applause of this world, because their motivation is the anticipation of hearing the words “Well done!” when this life is over (see Matthew 25:21, 23). Their focus is on becoming more like Jesus rather than acquiring fame and fortune for themselves. The God-centered (or Christ-centered) person shares the insightful goal of John the Baptist: “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30).

A fine but distinct line exists between being God-centered and being religion-centered. Many religion-centered people think that their lives revolve around God, when, in truth, they are enslaved to a religious system. Many false religions, and even some Christian denominations, focus so much on strict performance standards that the relationship with God Himself is pushed into the background. Neither being church-centered nor being activity-centered can substitute for being God-centered. Another distinction must be made concerning the identity of one’s God. Many religions have created their own gods, and people may center their lives on those gods, but such false religious systems lead to very different ends from biblical Christianity. For the purposes of this article, God-centered refers to the one true God revealed in the Bible and manifested in the person of Jesus Christ (John 10:30; 14:9).

In order to differentiate between a God-centered and a religion-centered life, it helps to know the difference between the two. If you believe yourself to be born again according to Scripture, then consider these questions:

Do I live with the vague, uneasy feeling that God is continually displeased with me?
Do I often find myself exhausted and defeated in trying to live a Christian life?
Do I secretly judge others who are not as actively engaged as I am in church or charity work?
Do I believe there to be a clear distinction between the sacred and the secular as it pertains to daily life?
Do I consider religious-looking activities a means by which I can gain God’s favor?
If my religious activity slackens, what is my motivation to resume it—guilt? fear? or a desire for more of God?

If guilt or fear is the motivator for any Christian-based activity, you may have a religion-centered life. A truly God-centered life feels off balance when prayer or personal Bible study is lacking. For a God-centered person, the motivation to return to those practices stems from desire, not guilt, similar to how a man who has fasted all day by evening hungers for food. A religion-centered life draws clear lines between the sacred and the secular, considering only religiously tainted activities as having any spiritual worth. God draws no such lines and encourages us to glorify Him in the mundane chores of daily living (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:23).

We move from earthly centered to God-centered by having a real encounter with the Holy Spirit, who transforms and renews our minds (Romans 12:2). When we realize that nothing else matters and we are willing to let go of whatever is necessary to have more of Him, we are on the way to living in joyful abandon to the things of God.

For Further Study​

Who Am I?: Identity in Christ by Jerry Bridges

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

 

[Patriot]

Should a Christian be a monk?​

Answer

Although monastic tradition has been partially inspired by biblical figures such as Elijah, John the Baptist, and even Jesus Himself (during His 40 days in the wilderness), monasticism is not a practice promoted or even mentioned in the Bible. Monks and nuns follow man-made traditions that are not taught in the Word of God.

The Pharisees prescribed many man-made rules for others. In a way, the Mosaic Law had become salvation to the Pharisees, rather than a tool by which God shows us our need for a Savior (see Romans 3:20). Jesus came to fulfill the Law (Matthew 5:17); because no one can live up to God’s righteous standard, Christ’s atonement for sin and the indwelling of His Spirit is the only way sinners can come before God and be made righteous (Ephesians 2:8–10; 1 John 5:11–13). Just as the Pharisees bypassed this truth with their many rules, so monasticism can dangerously sway toward a self-righteousness rather than “a righteousness that is by faith” (Romans 9:30).

Centuries before the first Christian monks began to cloister themselves, Paul warned the church of Colossae concerning rules imposed by men: “Why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules: ‘Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!’? These rules . . . are based on merely human commands and teachings” (Colossians 2:20–22). Paul opposed such religious traps in part because they were ineffective in producing true holiness: “Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence” (verse 23). One’s sanctification does not depend on following a monastic rule or any other code of human regulations.

The call to follow Jesus is a call to die to our own will and submit to God’s will for our lives (Romans 6:1–8, 13; Colossians 2:20–3:3; Mark 12:28–34). It is not, however, a call to asceticism. Christians are not forbidden from enjoying the things this world has to offer. Although Paul admonishes the wealthy to not put their hope in riches, he states that God “richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment” (1 Timothy 6:17). Of course the Bible forbids sin, but placing further strictures on one’s behavior, except to accommodate a weaker brother (Romans 14:21), goes beyond Scripture’s advice.

One of the problems with a Christian becoming a monk or nun, apart from the extra-biblical origin of the role, is that monasticism naturally divides Christians into two camps: those in “religious” vocations and those in “secular” vocations. Martin Luther, a former Augustinian monk (who married a former nun), wrote against the idea of a “super-Christian” inherent in monasticism: “Monastic vows rest on the false assumption that there is a special calling, a vocation, to which superior Christians are invited to observe the counsels of perfection while ordinary Christians fulfil only the commands; but there simply is no special religious vocation since the call of God comes to each at the common tasks.” In other words, a married man working as a circus clown can be just as holy as a monk of the most austere variety.

This is not to say that no good has come from monks or nuns who dedicated their lives to pious pursuits. Some, such as Brother Lawrence, have left profound writings that can be of aid in the Christian walk. Others have been forces of good in the fields of education and health care. And some, such as Gregor Mendel, have led scientific advances.

One good question to ask might be “what is the purpose of becoming a monk?” Is the answer “to better or perfect myself”? The Bible is clear that the key to the Christian life is faith, not rule-keeping: “Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?” (Galatians 3:2–3). Or perhaps the reason for becoming a monk is to escape the temptations of the world. The problem is that we are tempted internally, not just externally (James 1:14). The Bible never advocates escape from the world; in fact, it tells us to engage the world (see 1 Corinthians 5:9–10). Jesus was criticized for eating “with tax collectors and sinners” (Matthew 9:11); obviously, He never cloistered Himself.

Should a Christian submit himself to God’s will and obey His calling? Always, the answer to that is “Yes!” Should a Christian be a monk or a nun? Given the lack of biblical precedent, the requirements to adhere to man-made rules, and the problems inherent in asceticism, we would say, “No.”

For Further Study​

The ESV Study Bible

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

 

[Patriot]

How can I maintain a good attitude when I am hormonal?​

Answer

Hormones are natural substances produced in the body that regulate and influence the way that body grows and develops. At certain times in a person’s life, extra hormones are produced to facilitate growth spurts, such as during adolescence. At other times, hormone levels decrease, such as during and after menopause. Maintaining a good attitude when struggling with hormones has been difficult for everyone at some point in our lives.

Hormones, like any of our body’s natural substances, can affect us in both positive and negative ways. One negative aspect of a hormone imbalance is irritability and overly sensitive emotions. This imbalance is often considered to be a female problem, but men and boys are also affected by hormonal imbalances that may manifest as aggression or anger. Rather than simply excuse improper behavior, we should seek wisdom from God on the matter. What does God expect us to do when hormones are raging?

The Bible makes no allowances for physical conditions contributing to poor behavior. Commands are commands, whether we feel like obeying them or not. We are responsible for our actions, not our feelings. So an important step in maintaining a good attitude is to accept the responsibility for our actions, even when we suspect hormones play a role in how we feel. Admitting to God and to ourselves that we feel out of control can go a long way toward gaining control. Such honesty is also good practice in learning how to die to our flesh (Romans 6:6; 2 Corinthians 5:17). Choosing to do right while struggling with overpowering feelings can actually help us grow spiritually and develop self-control, which benefits us in every way.

In extreme cases of struggling with hormones, a visit to the doctor may be in order. Sometimes there are other factors at play that could signal a more serious problem. If a person recognizes that periodic hormone imbalances are creating tension and hurt feelings within the family or workplace, it may be time to restructure schedules to minimize personal interactions. When the cycle is at its worst point, it is better to stay away from people than risk hurting feelings and damaging relationships. The one struggling with hormones can warn those in close contact and apologize in advance, assuring them that normalcy will soon return. By warning those close to us, we are taking the responsibility for our own actions, rather than picking fights and blaming others.

Human beings are excuse factories, and, unfortunately, advances in medical knowledge have given us a storehouse full of biological ones. We can blame drunkenness on “disease,” adultery on an “addiction,” and hatefulness or aggression on “hormones.” God never accepts our excuses, so we shouldn’t, either. Sometimes obedience to Him is easy, and sometimes it is not, but our responsibility remains the same. Confessing our bad attitudes as sin (1 John 1:9), finding forgiveness (Micah 7:18), and asking for God’s strength to overcome (Romans 8:37) are always the right responses when struggling with hormones.

For Further Study​

How to Handle Your Emotions: Anger, Depression, Fear, Grief, Rejection, Self-Worth by June Hunt

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

​

 

[Patriot]

Does a believer have authority over Satan?​

Answer

The believer’s authority over Satan and victory over the spiritual forces of evil depend on the power of God, the relative power of Satan, and God’s power within the believer.

First, God’s power is perfect and unlimited. He created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1) and holds power over life and death. God clearly has power over Satan and in the end will cast Satan into eternal punishment in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:7–10).

Second, Satan’s power, while no match for God’s, is yet strong. Satan can tempt humans, as he did with Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). He is sometimes granted permission from God to inflict pain on people, as in the case of Job (Job 1—2). He was able to tempt Jesus but unable to cause Him to stumble or sin (Matthew 4:1–11). God warns us that Satan hunts for human victims in the way that a roaring lion prowls for its prey (1 Peter 5:8). Satan’s power is not only limited in effectiveness but also in time. Evil faces an ultimate defeat in the future (see Revelation 12:12 and 20:10).

This brings us to our power in relation to Satan. Believers in Jesus Christ have God’s Spirit living within them. Galatians 2:20 says, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” The same power that created the universe resides within us. As a result, Satan has no true power over us. He cannot force us to sin, he cannot possess us, and he knows that we will ultimately have the victory over him.

At the same time, Satan continues to cause problems for believers living in this fallen world. Ephesians 6:10–18 reminds us of the spiritual battle we face and the importance of using the spiritual armor God gives. In addition, James 4:7 spells out our responsibility to resist Satan: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

We have no authority over Satan in ourselves. God has all authority, and He fights on our behalf. Our response to Satan’s attacks should include submitting our lives to God, living in a holy manner, praying for God’s protection, and resisting sin. When we place ourselves under God’s protection, Satan has no authority over us. He will flee. In addition, we can respond to the devil’s temptations as Jesus did. All three times Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness, the Lord responded by quoting God’s Word (Matthew 4:1–11). If Jesus overcame temptation through Scripture, we should certainly rely on the Bible to overcome Satan’s temptation in our lives. It’s not called the “sword of the Spirit” for nothing (Ephesians 6:17).

The apostle Paul reminds us that Satan’s power will be short-lived. Romans 16:20 promises, “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.” Stand firm in the Lord, and you can live in victory over Satan’s schemes.

For Further Study​

Spiritual Warfare in the Storyline of Scripture: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Approach by Cook & Lawless

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

 

[Patriot]

How should a Christian view tradition?​

Answer

The word tradition can have two meanings, one secular and one religious. The secular understanding is that tradition is a long-established ritual, custom, or belief that is passed down from one generation to the next. For example, families have certain traditions in the way they celebrate holidays, birthdays, or vacations. Family traditions can be a healthy and positive way to maintain family cohesiveness. Social traditions can help create a sense of belonging within a community. A school may have a tradition that each year the incoming freshmen are escorted to the first football game by the seniors. Following those traditions builds unity and helps maintain social norms. In the religious arena, however, tradition can blur the line between God’s truth and man’s invention, thereby confusing many. Christians should view religious tradition with caution.

Religious tradition was in full force during Jesus’ earthly ministry. He often scolded the religious leaders, saying, “You nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down” (Mark 7:13). The scribes and the Pharisees had added so many of their own ideas to God’s Law that the common people were confused and felt helpless to obey it all. In Mark 7:6–8, Jesus quoted from Isaiah to reprimand the religious leaders, saying, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’” Notice that the “commandments of men” were being taught as if they were divinely inspired “doctrines.” And that was the problem.

One of the many traditions kept by the Pharisees of Jesus’ day involved a ritualistic hand-washing before meals. The observance of this tradition had nothing to do with cleanliness; the Pharisees’ concern was ceremonial purity. Once, when a Pharisee invited Jesus to eat with him, Jesus bypassed the tradition: “His host was amazed to see that he sat down to eat without first performing the hand-washing ceremony required by Jewish custom” (Luke 11:38, NLT). Jesus had broken no law—nothing in the Mosaic commandments required such hand-washing—but the Pharisee expected conformity to the custom nonetheless. Jesus’ outright disregard of that manmade tradition sets up a clear distinction between what is binding (God’s commands) and what is not binding (human tradition).

Religious traditions that supersede or displace God’s law have been around since the earliest days. They are still in full force within every religion as well as most Christian denominations. The liturgical branches of Christianity have the most obvious traditions, but more relaxed worship venues can have them as well. Most of us have our favorite style of music, method of preaching, organizational structure, and serving routines that we accept without question. When faced with change, we might even feel a sense of moral outrage, as though changing the service format or adding a bass guitar were a direct violation of God’s commands. What we’re really doing, perhaps without even realizing it, is guarding our own pet traditions, just as the Pharisees did. We can even become offended at Jesus, as the Pharisees did, when He disrupts our traditional view of what we think Christianity should look like (see John 9:16).

Scripture has layers of meaning. The more we delve into God’s Word, the more we learn about God, and it often upsets our own ideas. Just when we think we have things figured out and we are certain that we are theologically, morally, and socially right about it all, we uncover another layer that shatters those confidences. When we cling to tradition—whether denominational, theological, or structural—as if it were God’s Word, we keep the door closed on God’s revelation of truth to us. He wants to keep surprising us with Who He is as we continue to pursue Him (Jeremiah 29:13). But religious tradition is often in the way. “That’s not how we’ve always done it,” is the battle cry of the traditionalists. Breaking tradition can be uncomfortable for many, just as it was for the Pharisees (Matthew 5:33–34; Luke 6:26–27). But when we can clearly see the dividing line between our own traditions and God’s truth, we stay humble and pliable as God continues to transform us into the image of His Son (Romans 8:29).

For Further Study​

40 Questions About Roman Catholicism by Gregg Allison

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!