Happy Saturday, friends! (I know it’s Wednesday, but my favorite daughter/Virtual Assistant is on vacation, so I’m having to do some things that I don’t do so much anymore).
Today I’m pondering out loud (with my fingers) something that has been inwardly percolating for a few weeks.
Some billboards have recently shown up here in Amarillo that have caused a bit of a stir in my circles. Apparently it’s not a localized phenomenon, but I’m only going to speak to my personal experience and perspective.
Here’s a screenshot from the website of the entity that is placing the billboards.
This shows that there are, apparently, 4 prominent billboards in their focus currently.
1 – “Are You Committing Idolatry? Scripture Says … God is One, Not Three-in-One.”
2 – “Jesus is not God. Scripture Says … Jesus did not pre-exist in heaven.”
3 – “Scripture gives no sign of Christ’s return. It could happen any day! Are you ready?”
4 – “Do you trust God? Scripture says … Earth does NOT move.”
My purpose today is not to refute these, but to consider how I might encourage followers of Jesus to respond to such scenarios.
My quick summary of the point of the billboards is that 1 & 2 deny the deity of Christ. This “non-trinitarian” view is nothing new.
4 denies that the earth and other planets revolve around the sun (heliocentric) and suggests that earth is the center around which the sun and other planets revolve (geocentric). This is also not new.
To be honest, I’m not sure what they’re trying to accomplish with 3. And though I probably don’t agree with their ideas, I think there is a large percentage within the Christian family that is WAY too consumed with signs of the end.
Now, to our response:
Here’s a thought: Lighten up.
One evidence of the stability of our faith is that we avoid being insecure alarmists—constantly looking for battles to fight, easily offended and threatened, zealous to defend the faith at every turn.
We’re better ambassadors of Jesus when we’re living, demonstrating, and sharing the faith than we are when we’re defending it.
Here’s another thought: “Scripture” is a vague concept.
I know what I mean when I say the word, but I don’t know what this group means. Different groups embrace different sacred texts and “scripture” easily becomes generic.
Honestly, we’re sometimes not very good at interpreting the Bible that we have, so we shouldn’t be surprised when a secretive group comes up with a shocking revelation.
It’s probably also a good time to remind us that the Bible was never intended to be a scientific textbook and that faith and science are not enemies.
Here’s a final thought (for today): This is another example of why being part of a faithful community (church) is so important.
“Do your own research” is—in general—TERRIBLE advice!
Every time I see it, I cringe.
It’s the kind of approach that leads people to get their ideas from billboards, internet conspiracies, social media influencers, and celebrity preachers.
The clear emphasis of the New Testament is on a faithful local community of believers who diligently study the words and ways of Jesus together and encourage one another to live out the values of the kingdom visibly where they work, live, and play.
Deception and destruction happen in isolation.
There are so many opportunities to celebrate today what God is doing in and through His people throughout the world.
We should be the living billboards of that celebration.
Be amazing today, my friend.
