A true Christian is a disciple. That means someone who learns and never stops learning.
Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples;
and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” Jn 8:31–32 NRSV
Some Christians imagine that they have complete grasp of the truth, so that they never stop correcting misguided people and especially Christians who think differently. People like this are no longer teachable, not open to learn. They are no longer true disciples, but dogmatic know-alls.
If anyone thinks he knows anything, he does not yet know it as he ought to know it.
But if anyone loves God, he is known by him. 1 Cor 8:2–3 CSB
What does that actually mean?
Bible knowledge is worthless unless we are in a humble and loving relationship with God, unless we are constantly led by the Holy Spirit and allowing God to teach us how to understand what He is saying in His word, the Bible.
If I think I can rebuke other Christians, then I must love and respect other Christians, and I must be teachable myself.
Jesus said we must remain in His Word.
What does it mean to remain in His Word?
Some Christians hold fast to certain beliefs and proof texts, and they use these teachings to rebuke other people. This was the case with the Pharisees who persecuted Jesus and Paul.
Jesus and Paul were able to rebuke misguided people, but their approach was primarily characterised by mercy and helpfulness.
Are you an encourager? If you don't encourage those around you with love every day, you've already gone wrong somehow. Maybe you also have some days that aren't so positive. I do too. Paul also knew that he was still on his journey and had not yet reached his goal.
I don’t mean to say I am perfect. I haven’t learned all I should even yet, but I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ saved me for and wants me to be. Php 3:12 The Living Bible, Paraphrased
Do you always focus on doctrines and proof texts and want to teach other Christians and give the impression that you are always right about everything? Then you are on the wrong track.
Paul taught misguided Christians, but he was always humble and motivated by love.
I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart.
For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my people, those of my own race, the people of Israel…. Rom 9:2–4 NIV
Jesus also rebuked his Jewish contemporaries with harsh words and threatened them with the flames of hell, but his heart was still moved by love.
As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it
and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. Lk 19:41–42 NIV
“Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing. Lk 13:34 NIV
When we are indignant because of false teachings, we must always return to this love and mercy of God so that we do not become proud and self-righteous.
Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Disciples are Learners, not Perfect
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