Category: Shadows (Page 8 of 25)

Evil is complex, and our Bible provides insights that we cannot find anywhere else. The simple story is that Satan, a fallen angel who rebelled against God, seeks to lead humanity away from righteousness, away from God. Satan is at liberty to wander the earth, even visit heaven, where he can engage in a dialogue with God. He tempts individuals to sin (1 John 3:8; Matthew 4:1–11). The Scriptures allow us the privilege to hear directly from Satan. In the opening of the Book of Job, he talks to God directly about Job. It will be here that we can gain an understanding of the power of evil in our world. Satan’s role in the story revolves around testing Job’s faith. Satan is portrayed as a spiritual being with the ability to affect human lives, often causing harm. He argues that Job’s piety is contingent on his blessings. We first learn that Satan is ultimately subservient to God. Although he has the power to harm people, it is only because God grants him this authority. For instance, at the beginning of the Book of Job, God allows Satan to harm anything that belongs to Job, except Job’s own body. In Job 1, God says to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one like him on earth, a blameless and upright man who fears God and turns away from evil.” Yes, Satan causes disasters, but his actions are always within the boundaries set by God.

When God allows Satan to afflict Job with physical suffering, Job’s unwavering faith surprises Satan. Despite immense hardship, Job refuses to curse God. Job 2 begins to document the painful sores inflicted on Job by Satan. Despite Job’s suffering, he remains solid in his faith and does not sin by denigrating or blaming God. We can begin to see one of Satan’s characteristics emerging that plays to the advantage of evil. It is sin! Sin, came into our world when our first foreparents, Adam and Eve, directly disobeyed God, leading to their fall and banishment from Eden (Genesis 3). This disobedience introduced sin and evil into the world (Romans 5:12–14). But the “Gorilla in the Room” lies with humanity’s original creation with free will. We are a separate creation from God, with the freedom to choose how we will interact with the world around us, including God. This thing called “free will” grants each of us the power to break our relationship with God on our own, Satan is free to lead us to evil and suffering if we choose to follow him.

(Isaiah 45:7)¹NIV New International Version Translatiosn – “I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the Lord, do all these things.”

The verse from Isaiah tells us that God says, “I make peace and create evil.” The Hebrew word for “evil” here is ra’ah, which refers to calamity, disaster, or hardship. It does not imply moral wickedness. God never causes anyone to sin! The Bible never attributes the creation of moral wickedness (rasha’) to God. God is consistently described as good and just (Mark 10:18; Psalm 111:7). What we learn about Satan from Job is that evil comes from a combination of Satan’s influence, human choices, and the risks inherent in free will. God did not directly create evil but allowed us the freedom to choose love and a relationship with Him.

In Hebrew, Satan means “The Accuser” or “The Prosecutor.” He searches out wrongdoings and appears as an accuser. Satan isn’t acting as a tempter here but rather as someone who challenges religious pretensions. To be religiously pretentious is to claim a level of religious devotion, knowledge, or piety that you do not genuinely have. It involves presenting oneself as more devout, righteous, or spiritually advanced than one truly is.

There is one more place that we can use to fully understand the nature of evil in our world. It is in the story of how Jesus, after fasting for 40 days, faced three specific temptations from Satan. Jesus responded to each temptation with Scripture, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to God (Matthew 4:1–11; Luke 4:1–13). Satan tempts Jesus directly, knowing that Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus’ authority is evident, and Satan’s efforts are futile. Jesus is without sin, and His will is that of His Father, not subject to humanity’s many flaws. Satan tempts Jesus with three specific challenges:

• To turn stones into bread (appealing to physical needs).
• To throw Himself down from the temple (appealing to pride and testing God’s protection).
• To worship Satan in exchange for worldly power (appealing to ambition).

Jesus resists all temptations, asserting His unwavering commitment to God. Satan departs, and angels minister to Jesus. How many of today’s leaders could come close to passing that same test?

(1 John 3:8) – “The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.”

In Summary

From these two encounters between God (and Jesus) and Satan, we can finally list Satan’s characteristics.

• Who is Satan? An accuser who stands against God’s chosen people (Zechariah 3:1–2).
• Deceit: Satan is associated with the serpent who deceived Eve in the Garden of Eden (2 Corinthians 11:3).
• Impact on humanity: Satan’s influence on human hearts and his role in deception are well documented in Scripture (Acts 5:3). Satan is real, and he is effective.
• The source of false information and murder: Jesus describes Satan as a murderer, liar, and the source of falsehood (John 8:44).
• Satan has influence: Jesus directly addresses Satan’s influence when Peter opposes God’s plan (Matthew 16:23).
• Impact on our World: Satan is a thief who seeks to harm and destroy, contrasting with Jesus’, who came to bring abundant life (John 10:10).
• Humanity’s response must be: To resist Satan’s interference in our world through submission to God (James 4:7).
• The End Game: This passage speaks of Satan’s ultimate defeat by God (Romans 16:20).

The verses above provide us with an insight into Satan’s character. Can you identify evil? Just look for deception and direct opposition to God. Be reassured that God’s Truth and Jesus will prevail.

God’s Word does not answer the question directly of why God permits evil to exist. We know that our free will lets us make choices independently, including choosing good or evil. Evil emerges when individuals turn away from God’s intended design. Sin disrupted the perfect harmony of creation, leading to suffering, pain, and moral evil. God allowed this consequence as a result of human disobedience. Trials can strengthen our character, deepen our dependence on God, and lead to spiritual growth (1 Peter 1:6-7; James 1:2-4). Our experiences of pain allow us to comfort and support those who suffer (2 Corinthians 1:3-6). Through Jesus Christ, God provides a way to overcome evil and reconcile humanity to Himself. This world is temporary compared to the glory of eternal life (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). God promises to make all things new (Revelation 21:5). Some aspects of evil remain mysterious. Our understanding is limited, and we cannot fully comprehend God’s purposes. Despite the existence of evil, we are called to trust in God’s wisdom, goodness, and sovereignty. All things together for His ultimate purposes (Romans 8:28).

Contemplations

• How do you spot evil?
  • Ideas to Explore: Is it moving you farther away from God’s Truth? Is hatred present? Does it ever bring people closer to God? Does the source have a track record of unbiased influence on our world, bringing them together?
• Do you take stories like that in Job literally, or do you view them as figurative lessons on the character of our God?
  • Ideas to Explore: Is the lesson within Job that God is in charge? God even controls the extent to which evil can persist. Note: Parables are also not intended to be taken literally. They are lessons to aid in our understanding of our Creation story. What might the lessons that you see be within the Book of Job?
• Do you think that evil in our world is a problem?
  • Ideas to Explore: Are the risks of war higher? Why is the average lifespan dropping in our nation? Why is there such a political divide based on hatred?
• If you had to pick a source in which you would place both your physical and spiritual future, what would it be?
  • Ideas to Explore: Is wealth stable enough? With manufactured diseases, is anyone safe? Do governments have the interests and freedoms of their people at heart?
• If you had to offer the ultimate protection to yourself and your family from evil, how would you do it?
  • Ideas to Explore: Where would you look? Where would you live? What would your plan look like?
• Is there any safety outside of Jesus Christ?
  • Ideas to Explore: This is a serious question. Knowing you have free will and will never be sinless, how is it that people will reconcile themselves with their Creator? Do we still care as a nation? Do we still believe in eternal life?

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Lying, and the spreading of falsehoods have been part of humanity since creation. Our dictionaries hold hundreds of variants of these types of lies. Occasionally, we see a few new terms pop up, like “gaslighting.”¹The term “gaslighting” comes from the 1938 British play “Gas Light” by Patrick Hamilton, which was later adapted into films in 1940 and 1944. The story involves a husband who manipulates his wife into believing she is losing her mind as part of his plot to steal from her. He does this by dimming the gas lights in their home and then denying any change when his wife notices it. The term has since entered the realm of psychology to describe a type of psychological manipulation where one person seeks to undermine another person’s confidence in their understanding of events or their surroundingsGaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where a person is made to question their thoughts, beliefs, and even their memories of the events occurring around them. By manipulating history, facts, and the obvious, gaslighting has become a tactic used to gain power over someone. In some cases, people can do it to themselves by ignoring the true world around them.

Recognizing a lie is always challenging. We have our own biases, and experiences that cloud our reasoning. Sometimes, we just trust the wrong people. The Bible doesn’t provide direct advice on how to spot a lie, but it does offer wisdom on discerning truth from falsehood.  For example, in Ephesians 4:25, believers are encouraged to “speak truthfully to your neighbor,”²NIV New International Version Translations which implies the importance of honesty and truth in interactions with others. Additionally, Proverbs 12:22 states that “lying lips are an abomination to the LORD,” suggesting that God values truth and detests lies. As believers, we are also encouraged to pray for discernment and wisdom, which can aid us in recognizing when we are being deceived.

”Gaslighting,” however, is different. There are psychological and social attributes, heavily influenced by self-interest and the desire to control others. It is professional lying on a large scale, sometimes, so large that the truth cannot even be seen. It might even be called “team lying,” where groups band together using the complexities of our world as a smoke screen. Today, politics, media, large corporations, social media, and search engines are at the heart of this cooperative deception. Add to this concern that Artificial Intelligence is coming, and it is cloaked in secrecy, which adds additional risks. Many people have their fingers on the lamp of our nation’s freedoms—people we do not know or see.

While the term “gaslighting” is modern and not used in the Bible, the sin of gaslighting-like behavior, where individuals are deceived or led to doubt their perception or memory, was alive and well a long time ago.  We will look at two short stories to better understand this deceptive technique.

Anointed by the prophet Samuel, Saul was chosen by God to be the first king of Israel. We find this history in the First Book of Samuel. Saul was initially humble and successful in uniting the tribes of Israel and leading them against their enemies. Saul’s reign began to take a turn for the worse when he began to disobey God’s commands. For example, Saul failed to destroy the Amalekites³The Amalekites were the first nation to attack the Jewish people after their Exodus from Egypt. They launched a vicious surprise attack on the Jews while they were encamped in Rephidim in the Sinai Desert. Although the physical nation of Amalek no longer exists, its name symbolizes evil and enmity toward the Jewish people. and their possessions. as God had instructed him to do. It had been his prime duty to protect the Israelite nation. Because of his disobedience, God eventually rejected Saul as king and had Samuel anoint David as his successor.

This now becomes a story of jealousy.  After David’s victory over Goliath and his growing popularity, Saul’s behavior toward David led to erratic behavior and a decline in Saul’s leadership. Saul, approaching the end of his life, sought guidance from a medium at Endor (1 Samuel 28:3-25). This was paramount to abandoning God because Saul was fearful and not in communication with God. Saul’s actions and the resulting spiritual and psychological turmoil he experienced can be likened to the confusion and self-doubt that are hallmarks of being gaslighted. Saul’s increasing paranoia and erratic behavior, particularly towards David, reflects the inner conflict and distress that can result from prolonged exposure to manipulative behaviors driven by jealousy. Remember, “gaslighting” involves manipulating someone to doubt their memory, perception, or sanity. While Saul himself is not a victim of gaslighting by Samuel, his actions, and the consequences of those actions, as narrated by Samuel, led to a situation where Saul’s grasp on reality and his kingship became increasingly tenuous. God’s Word shows us how deception, whether self-inflicted or from external sources, can lead to doubt and confusion. The consequences of turning away from God’s guidance caused Saul to make a desperate move and ask a medium to summon the spirit of Samuel.

Let’s stop for a moment and look at our world today. How many people fall into that same trap? Having abandoned God, they have no plan and go searching for self-proclaimed experts. We have an entire government filled with “experts” doing the same thing.  What we are missing is God! The medium in Saul’s story calls up a spirit who is presumed to be Samuel. The spirit then predicted Saul’s defeat and death. Saul’s life ends tragically in a battle against the Philistines.⁴As a nation, Philistia no longer exists. The descendants of the Philistines inhabited the heartland of ancient Philistia along the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. Their cities included Ashdod, Ashkelon, Ekron, Gath, and Gaza.When Saul realized the battle was lost, he took his own life to avoid capture.

Saul’s disobedience and subsequent rationalizations of his actions could be interpreted as attempts to manipulate reality to fit his narrative, especially when facing the prophet Samuel. Saul’s increasing paranoia and erratic behavior, particularly towards David, also reflected the inner conflict and distress that resulted from prolonged exposure to manipulative behaviors. Yes, most were self-inflicted, but some also came from external sources. For “gaslighting” to work well, it takes a team effort. When governments hide the truth and align with groups loaded with nefarious motives, it is just another form of lying.

You might want to also add the story of how quickly the triumphant entry of Jesus’ ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday was replaced with His crucifixion and death. The leaders and the high priests manipulated the attitude of the crowds by holding a bogus trial. Jesus, an innocent man, was sentenced to death, by an unjust court and false witnesses. Those leaders were able to erase a three-year ministry filled with healing, hope, and love, substituting in the minds of the crowd hatred and revenge. The Romans were also more than happy to join in. This is just one more example of how a little sleight of hand and psychological turmoil were strong enough to even impact the apostles, making them question their knowledge of the Savior Himself.

The risks to a nation begin when the focus is lost, no longer prioritizing obedience and faith in God. Suddenly, the consequences of turning away from God become secondary and are substituted for more worldly concerns like personal safety and the health of the economy. The question that is at hand is whether this is by chance or by design. Is this another successful attempt at team lying, you know, “gaslighting.”

When the truth is absent, stress and discomfort quickly fill the void. “Gaslighting” undermines the trust and authenticity of any relationship. Whether political, social, or professional, lasting relationships must be based on the truth. Add in a bit of fraud, defamation, or other serious matters, and what you have before you is a divided nation, abandoning the very God who created us. God’s Truth has been clear, lying is a sin, and truthfulness is a virtue to be upheld. When the Apostle John responded to someone about lying, here is what he said:

(John 8:44) – “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”

John was referring to a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. The Pharisees were involved in using the woman to try to trap Jesus in an ethical dilemma.  They asked Him whether the woman, who was caught “in the very act” of adultery, should be stoned as per the Law of Moses. Jesus’s wisdom and His message of forgiveness and grace had been calling for repentance and forgiveness.  The dilemma was to instill in Jesus, a conflict in His beliefs. Our lesson is just to keep it simple. Demand nothing less from anyone, “Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another” (Leviticus 19:11). Not much wiggle room is there.

Contemplations

• How does the idea of manipulation and unequal justice work against the truth?
  • Ideas to Explore: Where in our contemporary world are we losing sight of truth because of manipulation and lies? Why is it dangerous to have politics, the media, search engines, social media, and large corporations team up to control the narrative?
• In a world of increasing complexity, how is it that you find what is true?
  • Ideas to Explore: Is any source of information that the world provides free from bias, and misrepresentation? What is your secret to digging for the truth? In what way does simplicity protect against “gaslighting?”
• Leadership’s role is to bring people together and bring people to God. Where do you see the idea of complex untruths and gaslighting, being applied to hide the real objectives being implemented in our world today?
  • Ideas to Explore: Are you sure you know the truth about topics like immigration, the national debt, the scope of the drug crisis in our nation, the real risks to our environment, or other issues affecting us today? There are lots of issues, pick a few.
• What is your plan?
  • Ideas to Explore: Can you spot it? Can you avoid it? Can you fight it? Can you help to stop it? What is the role of God’s Word in your plan? Satan has a plan. Do you?

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  The term “gaslighting” comes from the 1938 British play “Gas Light” by Patrick Hamilton, which was later adapted into films in 1940 and 1944. The story involves a husband who manipulates his wife into believing she is losing her mind as part of his plot to steal from her. He does this by dimming the gas lights in their home and then denying any change when his wife notices it. The term has since entered the realm of psychology to describe a type of psychological manipulation where one person seeks to undermine another person’s confidence in their understanding of events or their surroundings
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  NIV New International Version Translations
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  The Amalekites were the first nation to attack the Jewish people after their Exodus from Egypt. They launched a vicious surprise attack on the Jews while they were encamped in Rephidim in the Sinai Desert. Although the physical nation of Amalek no longer exists, its name symbolizes evil and enmity toward the Jewish people. and their possessions.
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  As a nation, Philistia no longer exists. The descendants of the Philistines inhabited the heartland of ancient Philistia along the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. Their cities included Ashdod, Ashkelon, Ekron, Gath, and Gaza.

Heaven’s Door

Lostpine has spent a lot of time over the years writing about God’s Truth. You know, that which is righteous behavior and the absolutes established at the time of our world’s creation by God. If you go back to the very beginning, Genesis, God’s Word describes a pretty nice place. There was no stress or strain in the Garden. No fear, no anxiety. The Tree of Life was there, providing physical and spiritual nourishment. Today, we might call this the good life, the life we all seek to find. What in the world happened? Oh yes, there was that slippery serpent that changed all of that for us.

(John 8:44)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”

In one rather creative lie, Satan destroyed our heritage too. We are the heirs of Adam and Eve. Our first couple of humanity would leave us an estate filled with “thorns and thistles” (Genesis 3:18).  This new world, Satan’s world, now requires constant labor to survive. Adam and Eve would watch one of their offspring murder the other over nothing more than simple jealousy. The idea of pain and death in their new world became much too real, and it is much too real in our world today. The hope Adam and Eve had for eternal bliss quickly faded. It must have looked like a future without hope. Maybe you think our future today looks the same—not too hopeful.

Reflecting for a moment, Satan reminded us to trust our abilities rather than rely on God. King David tells us that “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18). It is the oldest trick in the book. Satan says, “You too can be as smart as God.” Eve was so convinced, that she ate the forbidden fruit just to “be like God, knowing good and evil” (Genesis 3:5). If anyone is expecting our world to ever be an easy place to live in, you may want to reset your expectations. Eve had to do quite a reset. We will always be tired, and anxious, and we will live with stress and fear. Why? We keep trying to shoulder the responsibilities of our Creator. There is no history of that ever working!

Humans make lousy judges and lawmakers. Our idea of moral order has never worked for long. We try to create but only manage to destroy. We try to be shepherds but only manage to lead others away from the very God who loves us and created us. If we can accept the science (facts), our world has not existed forever, nor will it exist forever. It is only safe to assume that our world is the place where you and I are right now. It is also the only place we will find the door—the gateway out of this world back into eternity. This should be everyone’s goal because that is where we will find God.

Know this:

• Our God loves us. He loves His world and desires a relationship with all of humanity.
• We must acknowledge that sin has separated us from our God, and without intervention, this separation leads to spiritual death, the kind that Adam and Eve experienced.
• That door, that latch to eternity, is nothing less than Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, lived a sinless life, died on the cross to pay the penalty for human sin, and rose from the dead to prove to us that “He and only He” is the door, the latch to eternity from our world into the next.

Our vision in this world will always be clouded by pride. To see the door, to see the latch, and to see Jesus Christ, we must be willing to repent of our sins and place our faith in Him as our Lord and Savior. That Tree of Life is sitting inside that door, along with the Tree of Eternal Life. Jesus is ready to forgive our sins, reconcile us to God Himself, and transform our lives back to that which was lost so long ago by Adam and Eve.

 If you are tired:

(Matthew 11:28-30) – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

If you are anxious:

(Philippians 4:6-7) – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

If you are tempted:

(1 Corinthians 10:13) –  “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

If you are fearful:

(Isaiah 41:10) – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

If you are under stress:

(Romans 12:2) – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

Still Looking for Hope? Others have fought that same fight too!

(2 Corinthians 4:8-9) – “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

The above Scripture verses are all a small part of God’s Truth, conveniently packaged in book form entitled, “The Bible.”

Contemplations

• When our world is filled with despots, liars, thieves, and sadists, and the list goes on, we will have chaos. Are you surprised that we have anxiety, fear, war, and stress, and must deal with other human anomalies?
  • Ideas to Explore: Why is society surprised by economic difficulties when we have incompetent leadership? Do you think we are being led by thieves? What is it about the pride of position that drives those to power and crime? Does over 34 trillion dollars in debt concern you? It should, it is your debt!
• Do you think that those who elect and support corrupt leaders recognize their failure?
  • Ideas to Explore: Half of the population of the world disagrees with the other half. How can this be reconciled? Do you think knowing God’s Truth might help sort this out?
• Why is it often insufficient to tell someone with health issues, financial issues, or other severe problems that they should just “keep the faith?”
  • Ideas to Explore: Does keeping the faith mean the pain stops? Have good people, who do not deserve the problems of the world, experienced suffering not at their own hands? What is our role when we see this? Are we helping people find the latch to heaven’s door?
• Do leaders of today have the competence to lead?
  • Ideas to Explore: How do you measure competence?

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This study finds us in the Gospel of John, after the end of Jesus’ last meal with the disciples. Jesus is praying before entering the garden of Gethsemane.  It is hard to imagine what our Lord was going through at that moment. He was worried about the men who had lived beside Him for the last three years. The future of the world and His ministry were about to fall into their hands. And yes, the impending sequence of suffering and death by crucifixion was in His thoughts. When a person (Jesus was a human by all standards) is in such a position, His thoughts and prayers are most revealing.

(John 17:13-23)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them. I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified. My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”

For us today, this should be considered the ultimate prayer. What is it that the Incarnate God wants for humanity? This might be called the “Priestly Prayer,” asking humanity’s creator on behalf of those chosen to carry on the ministry here on earth.  Jesus prays for three things: joy, protection from Satan, and sanctification through the Truth. Jesus is asking that, through the work of the Holy Spirit, believers will be set apart from sin and consecrated for God’s service. He is asking God to separate believers from the influence and power of sin and to consecrate them for God’s Holy purpose.

(Romans 6:22) – “But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life.”

In this prayer, Jesus is emphasizing the unity between Himself and His Father, as well as the unity He wants for His followers. Jesus is also praying for future believers, asking that they may experience unity with God and each other. This unity is to be a light for the world, reflecting the divine love and glory of God. In these last moments, before His ministry on earth ends, Jesus is focused on the mission left to us to complete. Jesus is asking His Father to guard us against the chaos and falsehoods of the world. “One Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all” (Ephesians 4:5–6). What unites us with all other believers should be far greater than what divides us. Our unity should be our joint mission on earth.

• Our Belief in Jesus Christ: We believe in Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Son of God and the savior of humanity. His life, death, and resurrection are central to our faith, based on the forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life with God.
• The Bible: We consider the Bible, consisting of the Old and New Testaments, as sacred Scripture. Because it is the inspired Word of God, it is our primary source of guidance and authority while living in this world.
• The Trinity: We believe in the doctrine of the Trinity, which teaches us that God is a unity of three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. It is through the power of the Holy Spirit that we overcome sin and guide our human reason to the necessary revelations of God’s mysteries.
• The Resurrection: We believe that Jesus was crucified, died as a sacrifice for our sins, and, on the third day, rose from the dead. It is our faith in Christ that brings victory over death to us.

As believers, we practice sacraments or rituals, such as baptism and communion, which hold special significance to our faith. We engage in communal worship such as church service and prayer to celebrate our faith. Despite differences, the core beliefs mentioned above, as well as other common beliefs, serve as a unifying foundation for believers worldwide. Our takeaway must be that we have one faith and one God. Therefore, as believers, we are to live in a manner worthy of our one Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Test yourself:

• Do you love one another? (2 Corinthians 13:11)
• Do you forgive each other? ( Ephesians 4:32)
• Do you serve each other? (1 Peter 4:9–10) 
• Do you pray for each other? (James 5:16)
• Do you encourage each other? (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Conclusions

The unity Jesus spoke about is not an organization. It has nothing to do with denominations or versions of the Bible. Nor is it about how sacraments are to be administered. Jesus did not expect us to dress alike, believe the same way, or raise our children with the same beliefs. Jesus asks you and me to share His life for eternity with Him. We are to walk with Him, learn from Him, care for each other, and be a light to the world.

(Matthew 5:14-16) – “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

In Jesus’ priestly prayer, He was not praying for the world. He was specifically praying for you and me today. Jesus was asking God to protect all those who had placed their faith in Him. In this, we should all be united!

Contemplations

• Can you express your beliefs in a few seconds?
  • Ideas to Explore: Do you name denominations? Do you include rituals? Is your faith simple? Does your explanation make others want to know more about your faith?
• Do you see the common bond between people of faith?
  • Ideas to Explore: Are you too political? Are you too secular? Are you too rigid?
• Who do you align with when it comes to personal comfort?
  • Ideas to Explore: Are you more comfortable with believers or non-believers? Do you compromise your beliefs because of your desire to be friends with someone? How are you around family members who believe differently than you?
• Does your life mirror how Jesus lived?
  • Ideas to Explore: Do you show joy even in suffering? Are you the “light” that points to Jesus? Will you be missed by those around you when you are gone because of how you loved them?

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  NIV New International Version Translations

What is compromise? We are told that a successful compromise involves finding a balanced solution that addresses the interests, needs, and desires of all parties involved. There is increasing pressure on Christians and conservatives to compromise more. It’s us, they say. We must learn how to balance our conflicting interests with the rest of society. But what if the interests in question cannot be reconciled? What if there is a direct conflict between God’s Truth and what the world desires?  Is there a way to make sure that the best outcome, one that God Himself would be pleased with, succeeds? God’s Will and His Truth cannot be compromised!

This study will look at four biblical Truths to see how they might help in this task of difficult compromises. Lostpine calls them the “Four R’s to Compromise.” These are Reverence, Respect, Repentance, and Reconciliation.

Reverence

To begin, the necessary Reverence is for God Himself. It will not be possible to seek the goals of successful compromise without God becoming part of the solution. Reverence begins with a profound, adoring, and awed respect for God. This is much more than just honor. It signifies that we must have a deep sense of awe and humility for God’s wisdom—something greater than our wisdom will ever be.

(Hebrews 12:28)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe.”

(Proverbs 9:10) – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”

The characteristics of God are vast, beyond human understanding. Humanity is finite. God is infinite. God is self-existent, without origin or dependence on anything. He exists eternally, existing everywhere simultaneously. God’s knowledge is perfect, knowing all things, past, present, and future. His character is unchanging, pure, existing with moral perfection, and separated from sin. The concept of one God in three persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) is mysterious and beyond human analogy or comprehension. The character and eternal nature of God existed even before creation. He exists beyond the limits of the material universe. God is timeless, existing without the constraints of the past, present, and future. He is self-sufficient and needs nothing external. Humanity falls short in even describing God’s glory, beauty, and majesty. Humanity, in its fallen state, cannot begin to bridge the gaps of compromise without God because it continually attempts to raise itself above God.

(Romans 1:21-24) – “For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human being and birds and animals and reptiles. Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. 25 They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.”

Add to the verses above the rest of Romans 1:25-32 and humanity’s track record is very bad!

Respect

Whether it is between people or nations, respect must be present for compromise to occur. Disagreements such as those over God’s Truth can destroy any attempts to find a balanced and lasting solution. The same is true when hatred is present between affected parties. Amazingly, humanity all began as the same creation, patterned after its Creator’s image. “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27). Being made in God’s image sets humans apart from all other creatures, and signifies our unique dignity, value, and purpose. While our physical attributes are not those of God, humans share an ability to reason, create, and establish relationships. We have been entrusted by our Creator with responsibility over His creation. Everyone is considered equal in the eyes of God! For respect to exist, there must also be forgiveness. Humanity’s free will and sinfulness have given us a history of pain, suffering, and destruction. Sin works against all that is good. Forgiveness, therefore, is necessary to foster respect by promoting emotional health, restoring relationships, and modeling God’s Grace and His forgiveness of humanity. All parties must take this to heart. If there is hatred or a lack of respect for one or the other, it is foolish to expect a successful and lasting compromise.

Effective compromises seek to strike a balance between conflicting interests. While the solution should ensure that no one feels unfairly treated or left out, there must be “common ground” that is consistent with God’s Truth.

(Hebrews 3:14) – “Unlike Solomon, we cannot compromise the wisdom God has given us by His spiritual revelation if we are to ‘hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end.’”

Solomon was known for his wisdom and initially followed God but later compromised his beliefs. He had married foreign wives who influenced him to worship their gods (1 Kings 11:1-8). Solomon’s compromises resulted in his spiritual decline and his divided loyalty. Like Solomon, we can start with a strong faith but drift away if we are not careful about the compromises in our lives. This is a warning! As believers, we share in all the blessings procured by Christ’s death and offered in the Gospel (such as pardon, holiness, and eternal life). However, this is conditional. The condition for this participation is that believers must hold fast to their initial confidence in Christ until the end. Compromising God’s Truth undermines our faithfulness and integrity. Staying steadfast in His wisdom and revelation is essential. This defines a boundary that cannot be crossed.

Repentance

Repentance means acknowledging that there is a need to change the direction of thinking and beliefs for both parties. Repentance requires a genuine change of heart and a commitment to follow a new way. While compromise is generally desirable, there will be situations where it’s simply not possible to agree. You should always be open to alternative options, including the possibility of walking away from the negotiation if necessary. God’s Truth is never negotiable.  Repentance begins with an honest self-reflection of the issues. Both sides should approach compromise with an open attitude, and both sides should be willing to examine their own biases and misjudgments. Repentance requires humility before God. Humility allows people to listen, learn, and consider alternative viewpoints. The purpose behind repentance is to prioritize reconciliation over just being “right.” Repentance acknowledges our own need for forgiveness. The Bible consistently presents repentance as a pivotal aspect of the spiritual journey, emphasizing its role in forgiveness, restoration, and a renewed relationship with God. It works the same way with relationships with others.

(2 Chronicles 7:14) – “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

(Jeremiah 15:19) – “Therefore this is what the Lord says: ‘If you repent, I will restore you that you may serve me; if you utter worthy, not worthless, words, you will be my spokesman.’”

The connection between repentance, restoration, and service to God is part of any lasting compromise. We must always prioritize obedience to God’s commandments over obeying human authorities or any instructions that contradict God’s laws. “Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than human beings!‘” (Acts 5:29). The apostles chose to continue proclaiming the Gospel despite facing persecution and threats, demonstrating their commitment to obeying God’s commands above all else. It underscores the importance of maintaining fidelity to God’s Truth even in the face of opposition or pressure to accept a worldy compromise.

Reconciliation

Reconciliation involves moving from a state of separation, hurt, and brokenness to a place of healing, wholeness, forgiveness, and reunion. The Greek word for reconciliation is “katallage”, meaning “adjustment of a difference” or “restoration to favor.” The Hebrew word is “kapar” or “kaphar”, which translates to “cover over” or “atone.” It’s the process of taking what is wrong and covering it with the cleansing power of God, restoring it to a new state of unity.

The Bible’s narrative begins with humanity in perfect harmony with God in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2). Adam and Eve spoke with God directly and felt no shame. Their disobedience changed all of that (Genesis 3). We were cast out from the garden, breaking our original relationship with our Creator. The Bible, God’s Truth, is about the path to finding our way back to Him. The ultimate solution to God’s plan of reconciliation is through Jesus: “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). The entire Gospel centers on reconciliation. Despite humanity’s repeated sins, God offers Jesus as a model and a way back to Him. This model, Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection, acknowledges the need for forgiveness so that ultimate forgiveness and unity can occur.

Jesus is the Incarnation of God in human form. He experienced human life firsthand, including its joys, sorrows, temptations, challenges, and compromises. This makes Jesus relatable to humans in a unique way that God, as an omnipotent and transcendent being, is not. Jesus’ teachings and life demonstrate qualities like love, compassion, forgiveness, humility, and selflessness through his actions and interactions with people. These qualities serve as practical examples for us to follow in our daily lives. God is transcendent and beyond human comprehension. Jesus is approachable and accessible through prayer, reflection, and the following of His teachings. His life, death, and resurrection model redemption and salvation for us.

Reconciliation becomes impossible if it requires abandoning God’s Truth. That is not a compromise, that is a capitulation. Reconciliation can only take place between parties when the spirit of the compromise is consistent with God’s Truth.  Using Jesus as a model, we are asked to extend grace to each other, recognizing our imperfections. The positions taken in our world are often misrepresented or are part of a history of hatred and mistrust between parties. The world will tell you that understanding truth is subjective and influenced by personal experiences. Just be aware that there are different types of truth—the truth of the world and God’s Truth. One is ever-changing, and one is evermore! Remember that reconciliation involves humility, compassion, and a willingness to find common ground. Understanding God’s Truth can be much more complex because it impacts core principles and values that should never be compromised.

(Ephesians 4:17-24) – “So I say this, and insist in the Lord, that you no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking… But you did not learn about Christ like this, if indeed you heard about him and were taught in him, just as the truth is in Jesus. You were taught with reference to your former way of life to lay aside the old man who is being corrupted in accordance with deceitful desires, to be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and to put on the new man who has been created in God’s image—in righteousness and holiness that comes from truth.”

The Apostle Paul calls us to abandon the world’s ways and embrace a new life in Christ. This should always direct us toward a decision that aligns with God’s Truth and righteousness.

Summary

(Ephesians 6:13-14) – “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place.”

Paul emphasizes the importance of being equipped to defend God’s Truth and righteousness. As believers, we are called to stand firm against any challenges and temptations to our faith. A good compromise should always allow us to defend the message of the Gospel, and, in the end, draw all parties closer to Jesus Christ. The most concise response to compromise is provided by a shepherd and prophet, Amos.  “Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?” (Amos 3:3) People cannot ever walk together unless they agree on the destination. The same holds for God and humanity. Unless we seek God’s glory together, we cannot walk with Him. We should never presume, for even righteous reasons, that we somehow control the journey.  Without God’s sanctifying grace, we are lost. The threats outlined in the Word of God against sin, the definitions of God’s Truth, and God’s judgment of us all have been clearly stated throughout history.

Contemplations

• Where do you see the difficult compromises in our nation, in society?
  • Ideas to Explore: Spending; the environment; social justice; what else do you see?
• Are any of the really tough ones incompatible with God’s Truth?
  • Ideas to Explore: Should either party have expectations of a successful compromise if there is not a choice consistent with God’s Truth? Can you find this issue—incompatibility with God’s truth—in any of the difficult compromises our society is trying to make now?
• From the items you described above, how do you recommend we begin to come together? Which ones do we defend?
  • Ideas to Explore: Put God back into our nation, schools, and government. Defend freedom of religion, free speech, and other basic human rights. Defend the right to life?
• Why do you think people hate God’s Truth so much?
  • Ideas to Explore: Evil (Satan) is in control of this world. Sin is fun. Sin is profitable. Paul’s writing in Romans describes humanity’s positioning of themselves above God. People just want to fit in and be happy.
• Would you defend God’s Truth at any expense?
  • Ideas to Explore: This is a hard question because humanity is weak. However, we must find ways to keep our faith alive. To give up is to find ourselves eternally separated from God.
• Do you have personal limits to what you are willing to compromise on?
  • Ideas to Explore: Are they based on biblical Truths? Are they based on personal experiences? Are they biased by where you get your information?

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  NIV New International Version Translations

The Bible describes sin as “missing the mark.” It means that we fall short of the intended target when we deviate from God’s perfect standard or fail to align with His will. The word “sin,” whether in Hebrew or Greek, signifies that the same definition holds. If, for a moment, we can imagine the target as God’s Word, His commands, choosing to do something contrary to God’s desires, is sinful. Besides God’s written code, we have also been given a moral code, placed in everyone’s heart.

“Our sins are simply the outward manifestations of our personal decision to suppress the Truth about God and thereby to pursue whatever it is that we have decided to put in the place of God.” ~ Alistair Begg

The Bible speaks extensively about sin. No one is exempt. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23)¹NIV New International Version Translations. “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:9). The nature of sin is destructive. “Jesus replied, ‘Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin’” (John 8:34). Sin dominates, controlling a person’s life.

• Sin offends. It involves violence, lovelessness, and rebellion against God.
• Sin corrupts the heart. It leads us toward evil.
• Sin rejects God’s way. It steals, curses, and lies, often because it seems more attractive or reasonable.
• Sin disrupts. It keeps us separated from our Creator.

The Bible teaches us that humanity chose to sin, and this choice has had profound consequences.

(Genesis 3:16-19) – “To the woman, he said, ‘I will make your pains in childbearing very severe; with painful labor you will give birth to children. Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you.’ To Adam, he said, ‘Because you listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must not eat from it,’ Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil, you will eat food from it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your brow, you will eat your food until you return to the ground since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.’”

Sin has had far-reaching impacts on the world, affecting both individuals and society. Sin has separated humanity from intimacy with God. People hide from God, denying His existence or creating idols to worship instead. Our world believes that nothing produces everything, non-living things produce life, randomness produces precision, and chaos produces order. Sin gave us death. No one escapes this gift of sin! Sin affects every aspect of humanity, including the mind, will, and emotions. Our world’s history acknowledges the existence of this corruption. The Apostle Paul said, “Nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh” (Romans 7:18). Sin damages relationships. It creates division between people and God, as well as among us. Suspicion, fear, and self-centeredness result from sin. Wars, death, destruction, human catastrophe, and hatred are all the aftermaths of sin.

Sounds bad so far, doesn’t it? Hold on, it gets worse. Our world, influenced by the deceptions of evil, often tries to convince us that sin is not so severe. Sin is just an affront to our human rights granted through “free will.” A notable example can be found in the story of the Israelites constructing the golden calf, as recorded in the book of Exodus in the Old Testament. In Exodus 32, while Moses received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai, the Israelites grew impatient and asked Aaron to make them gods to lead them. Aaron complied and fashioned a golden calf out of their jewelry. The people then worshipped the golden calf, attributing their deliverance from Egypt to it. This act of idolatry was a clear violation of the commandments God had given them, particularly the commandment against worshipping graven images.

However, Aaron and the Israelites attempted to redefine their actions by stating that the golden calf represented the God who brought them out of Egypt. In Exodus 32:4-5, Aaron even proclaimed, “These are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.” When Aaron saw this, he built an altar in front of the calf and announced, “Tomorrow there will be a festival to the Lord.” Nice try, don’t you think? They attempted to rationalize and redefine their actions as somehow beneficial to God. Unfortunately, God considered their idolatry still a grievous sin, which resulted in severe consequences for the Israelites.

Is abortion a health choice? Is justice without repentance what God wants for thieves? Is a politician’s dishonor beneficial to the people they serve? Do the profits of war supersede the death and destruction it causes?  Is corrupt justice better than no justice? If people continue in spiritual death without repentance, they will eventually experience eternal death. What is eternal death? Eternal separation from God’s goodness forever. Only God sets the mark and defines what is sinful, only God!!

(Ezekiel 18:19-20) – “Yet you ask, ‘Why does the son not share the guilt of his father?’ Since the son has done what is just and right and has been careful to keep all my decrees, he will surely live. The one who sins is the one who will die. The child will not share the guilt of the parent, nor will the parent share the guilt of the child. The righteousness of the righteous will be credited to them, and the wickedness of the wicked will be charged against them.”

God’s principle of individual responsibility is clear, the soul who sins is held accountable. Satan, though influential, does not bear the guilt of sins committed by humanity. Each person bears responsibility for their own choices. When people choose sin, there are profound consequences. That is what “free will” is all about!

(Acts 4:12) – “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

Simply stated, Jesus is the only Way and Truth to find Eternal Life. Recognize and confess that you are a sinner, separated from God.  Believe that Jesus died on the cross for YOU. Repent of your sins. Publicly declare that Jesus is your Lord and Savior.  Welcome to eternity!

Contemplations

• Where do you see sin being redefined in society?
  • Ideas to Explore: Politics, news, education, what about religion and churches?
• What is the risk you see in normalizing sinful behavior?
  • Ideas to Explore: Does it depend upon your goal, eternity, or not? How is faith strengthened by normalizing sinful behavior?
• Do you believe that the world was created or just happened?
  • Ideas to Explore: The answer to this question has eternal implications.
• Can true justice be given without repentance?
  • Ideas to Explore: Where do the ideas of lowering thresholds on crime, no bail, or social justice lead society?

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  NIV New International Version Translations

We often miss the obvious. In most churches, we watch hundreds of baptisms. They are all similar. The candidate, the person being baptized, is asked to answer the question: “Who is Jesus Christ?” If the person is a child, the parents, family, and church members are asked to raise the child knowing the answers to this question. The answer is always the same, “My Lord and Savior.” A simple but provocative question and an obvious answer, or is it? What does it mean to call out publicly that Jesus Christ is my or will be a child’s Lord and Savior?

• Jesus as Lord: This requires that we see Jesus as our master, leader, and ultimate authority in life. We must believe in His teachings and strive to follow His example. This acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord involves surrendering our will to Him and seeking to live according to His principles, not our own free will.
• Jesus as Savior: This requires that we believe Jesus is the one who saves us from sin and its consequences. Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross is our atonement for humanity’s sins, offering salvation and eternal life to those who accept Him.

By professing Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are placing our faith in His redemptive work and trust in Him for forgiveness and eternal salvation. But not so fast! Before we peel this onion, what are the expectations that go with this statement of faith? What is the Fine Print? Are we dependent on theological beliefs, and denominal interpretations, or is it something much greater? Many religions interpret salvation as eternal life with God. Is our belief based on Jesus different?

(John 3:16)[¹NIV New International Version Translations – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Our faith in Jesus Christ comes from the belief that He is the Incarnate Son of God and the only Savior of humanity. Our faith involves acknowledging Jesus as Lord and believing in His sacrificial death and resurrection for the forgiveness of our sins. But there is “fine print.” There are a few things, requirements for this grace—that have been extended to us. Repentance is a crucial aspect of salvation. It involves acknowledging one’s sins, turning away from them, and seeking forgiveness from God. True repentance is accompanied by “a change in behavior” and “a desire to live by God’s will.” If you are not willing to live like Christ, you might want to spend some more time in prayer and reflection before making your commitment to follow Jesus. This is not an easy thing to do. It takes work, it takes effort, and it takes a lifetime.

Human beings were made in God’s image.  “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified:” (1 Thessalonians 4:3).  There is no other higher goal for God in His universe. Yet, humans cannot sanctify themselves. The Triune God sanctifies. The Father sanctifies (1 Corinthians 1:30) by the Holy Spirit (2 Thessalonians 2:13; 1 Peter 1:2) and in the name of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 6:11). God’s plan, however, has been disrupted by sin. Evil in our world deprives us of the good that God intended for His creation, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

What brings you to Christ is a gift from God, given by His Grace. It cannot be earned through good works or personal merit but is freely given to those who accept it through faith. We all seek eternal life with God in heaven. Salvation is not just a future hope but also a present reality that transforms believers’ lives. God has an expectation for you that you experience spiritual renewal and growth as you are conformed to the likeness of Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit. If no change is present, no sanctification is happening either. It is a wonderful measure to help us on our journey to eternity.

We are called to live lives of obedience and discipleship in response to God’s love for His creation. This includes following Jesus’ teachings, serving others, and living out the values of the Kingdom of God. It is not about baptism; it is not about the water; it is about committing to live a “Christ-like life.” When a child is baptized, those around the child commit themselves to praying for the child, be the child’s teachers, and set Christ-like examples for the child. Why? So that one day, when the child understands who Jesus is, they can answer the question: Who is Jesus Christ? “He is my Lord and Savior!”

(Matthew 16:24) – “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.'”

There will be lots of self-denial and a daily willingness to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, even to the point of sacrificing one’s desires and preferences. We may even find that the world hates us for our choices.

(Romans 12:1-2) – “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

We are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices to God, implying a surrender of one’s will to His purposes and a transformation of our mindset to align with His will. Jesus was a humble, obedient servant, serving as a model for those who place their faith in Him. Lest we forget, Jesus Himself, chose a public declaration of surrendering His will to His Father. In the Dead Sea Scrolls (found at Qumran), texts describe rituals involving washing, bathing, sprinkling, and immersing. These practices influenced early Christian baptism. John the Baptist, considered a forerunner to Jesus, used baptism as a central sacrament in his messianic movement. John the Baptist’s form of baptism was characterized by immersion in water, symbolizing purification, and repentance. Jesus Himself underwent baptism by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:13-17). With this public example, Jesus instituted the sacrament of baptism for the Christian Church.

(Matthew 3:13-17) – “Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?’ Jesus replied, ‘Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then John consented. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.’”

Today’s baptisms continue to use water and a Trinitarian invocation, “I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Spirit”. Baptism symbolizes the end of an old way of living, and a new birth (being born again). While baptism represents the forgiveness and cleansing from sin that comes through faith in Jesus Christ, it will also be the public declaration of one’s confession of faith and belief in the Gospel’s message, “Who is the Christ? He is my Lord and Savior.” that draws us into the kingdom of heaven with Jesus.

Contemplations

• What is your opinion on baptism? Is it a requirement to be saved? Once you are baptized, are you guaranteed to go to heaven?
  • Ideas to Explore: There are a lot of opinions formed on and around baptism based on denominational beliefs. Which ones did you grow up with?
• Why is a “public declaration” more effective than one done in silence?
  • Ideas to Explore: Human pride, soliciting help from others to live for Jesus, public vows like marriage, courts, etc. depend on them.
• How do you get to know Jesus?
  • Ideas to Explore: Read about Him in the Bible. Go to church. Attend discussion groups. Watch people who claim to know Him. Please share your story.
• What is the benefit of symbolism like water, emersion, and public declarations of faith?
  • Ideas to Explore: Could they simplify the mysteries concerning faith? They are seen by many. Marriages and baptisms bring families together. Allow people to relive their vows.
• Why are sacraments important?
  • Ideas to Explore: Sacraments are Christian rites that symbolize and convey God’s grace and love for humanity. Christ Himself initiated them, representing important spiritual milestones in the lives of His believers. They provide us with opportunities to feel God’s presence more strongly.

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  NIV New International Version Translations

Do you think that evil oversees our world? It is a provocative question, for sure. Historic deficits are making us a debtor nation, placing our children’s future at risk. Drugs are killing our younger generations by the tens of thousands because of border politics. Our nation has a government that has lost track of almost 100,000 children who may be at risk of being trafficked to the perverts of this world. Politicians are enriching themselves at the expense of their citizens. Perversions are being claimed as human rights. The world holds more and more terror every day, all of it seeking the destruction of our nation and freedom. If you disagree, you are no doubt tuned into the wrong people in our world.

Defining the characteristics of “evil” is complex and subjective. There are, however, some commonly identified characteristics that can be associated with “evil” behavior:

• Lack of Empathy – Evil individuals typically exhibit a profound inability or unwillingness to empathize with the suffering or feelings of others. They are indifferent to the pain they cause. There is a lack of a moral compass or conscience, allowing them to commit harmful acts without experiencing internal conflict or hesitation.
• Manipulative – Evil individuals will use manipulation and deceit to achieve their goals, exploiting others without regard for their well-being. They are professional liars. Evil lies, deceives, or betrays the trust of others in pursuit of their interests.
• Narcissism – Evil traits accompany extreme narcissism. It is unfortunate that narcissistic people see themselves as superior to others and feel entitled to do whatever they desire, regardless of the consequences for others.
• Aggression and Violence – Evil individuals often resort to aggression, violence, or other forms of harm to achieve their ends or assert dominance.
• Lack of Remorse or Guilt – Evil individuals may not feel remorse or guilt for their actions, even when they cause harm or suffering.
• Sadism – Just look at some of the events in the Middle East or Ukraine. The evil you see comes from people who derive pleasure or satisfaction from causing pain or suffering to others they hate.
• Dehumanization of Others – Evil sees individuals as mere objects or obstacles to being manipulated or discarded, rather than as fellow human beings deserving of respect and dignity.
• Ruthlessness – The evil we see today is a cold, calculating, ruthless, pursuit of selfish goals. There is little concern for collateral damage or the well-being of others.
• Greed – Greed and evil are often linked due to the harmful consequences that can arise from excessive desire for wealth, power, or possessions. Greed can fuel corrupt behavior, including bribery, embezzlement, fraud, and other forms of dishonesty.

(2 Timothy 3:1-5)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.”

The Apostle Paul describes the moral decline and characteristics of evil people in the end times. Whether these are the end times is not relevant. Throughout the Bible, there is a consistent theme of warning against evil behavior and urging believers to resist temptation and follow the path of righteousness. All people are sinners and have a propensity toward evil due to the fallen nature of humanity after the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Romans 3:23, Genesis 3). However, that is not an excuse. There are consequences for evil behavior. Those who engage in it will face judgment from God (Proverbs 11:21, Galatians 6:7-8). Our response must be to avoid evil people and separate ourselves from their ungodly influences (Proverbs 4:14-15, 2 Corinthians 6:14-18). God is the righteous judge who will hold evil people accountable for their actions. Justice will be served, either in this life or in the afterlife (Romans 12:19, Hebrews 10:30-31).

This is not a pretty picture, but that does not mean we have no hope.

(Jeremiah 29:11) – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

To begin with, we have God! We have God in the good times and in the times of uncertainty and adversity. The entire premise behind our covenant with God is that He has a positive plan for the future of His people, one that involves prosperity, protection from harm, and the promise of hope and a fulfilling future.

(Romans 8:28) – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

The Apostle Paul reminds us of God’s sovereignty and providence. Even amid difficult circumstances, God is actively at work for the benefit of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. The “good” mentioned in this verse doesn’t necessarily refer to immediate comfort or success, but rather to the ultimate good of God’s larger plan of redemption and restoration. It signifies God’s ability to bring about positive outcomes, growth, and transformation even in the face of evil.

(Hebrews 10:23) – “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”

Paul is again encouraging us to remain steadfast in our hope and faith in God, despite any challenges or trials we may face. The apostle emphasizes the reliability of God’s promises and His faithfulness to fulfill them. There is a side note here that is important not to miss. To “hold unswervingly to the hope we profess” means to cling firmly to the hope that is found in Jesus Christ and the promises of God, without wavering or doubting. We need to trust in God’s character and His ability to keep His word, even when circumstances may seem uncertain or difficult. Our God does not lie, “in hope of eternal life, which God, who never lies, promised before the ages began” (Titus 1:2).

(Romans 8:38-39) – “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord, because it’s unbreakable.”

The above passages are from Paul’s letter to the Romans. They are a powerful declaration of the unbreakable love and security that believers have in their relationship with God through Jesus Christ. It lists various circumstances and evil forces, including death, life, angels, demons, present, future, powers, height, depth, and anything else in creation, emphasizing that none of these things can separate those who believe in Jesus Christ from the love of God. To repeat: Nothing in existence, whether physical or spiritual, can sever the bond between us and God’s love for us. God’s love remains constant and unwavering, regardless of any external factors or challenges.

Contemplations

• What do you personally do to know that you are listening to the truth?
  • Ideas to Explore: Deuteronomy 19:15 states, “A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” Therefore, having multiple sources is one way to ensure you are hearing the truth. 1 Thessalonians 5:21 encourages believers to test or examine everything and hold on to what is good, suggesting the importance of personal discernment in evaluating teachings, experiences, and claims to determine their validity and truthfulness.
• What about the media, whether social or cable news, How do you know what you hear is true?
  • Ideas to Explore: Believers are urged to test or examine the spirits (teachings, messages, or influences) they encounter to discern whether they originate from God. This involves personal scrutiny and discernment to guard against deception. “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God because many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1).
• How do you keep your children filled with hope for their future?
  • Ideas to Explore: Teach Them God’s Promises – For example, in Deuteronomy 6:6-7, parents are instructed to impress God’s commandments on their children and talk about them regularly. Let your children see your faith and hope in action. Pray with them. Help your children focus on the blessings they have rather than what they lack. Teach them to serve others. Encourage your children to look beyond themselves and consider the needs of others. Be part of a community that strengthens their faith and gives them a sense of belonging.

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There is a growing attitude in our world that the Old Testament may no longer be relevant. The New Testament has replaced it. Replaced by Jesus and His command to just love one another. This could hardly be further from the Truth. We will look at both Testaments and see what we can find to counter any claims of either obsolescence or oversimplification.

Humanity’s Mission, Partially Defined

(Genesis 1:26)¹NIV New International Version Translations  – ”Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’”

The Old Testament contains 39 books divided into several categories: The Pentateuch (Torah) – 5 books; Historical Books – 12 books; Wisdom Books (Writings) – 5 books; Major Prophets – 5 books; and minor Minor Prophets – 12 books. Some denominations include 10 extra deuterocanonical books called the “Apocrypha.” The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew. It covers a period from the creation of the world (typically dated around 4000 BC) to around the 4th century BC. This timeline includes numerous events, and stories that include the lives of patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, the establishment of the kingdom of Israel, the reigns of various kings, and the prophets who delivered messages from God to the people of Israel and Judah. The 27 books of the New Testament are divided into 4 sections: the Gospels – 4 books; the Acts of the Apostles – 1 book; the Epistles or Letters – 21 books; and Revelation – 1 book. The original writings of the New Testament were written in Greek. The New Testament covers about 70 years, from the birth of Christ to His death and resurrection. The last book, Revelation, foretells the eventual return and the ultimate victory of God over evil.

The word “testament” means “covenant,” so these two major biblical divisions, old and new, refer to the Old Covenant and the New Covenant. A covenant in the Bible is a “solemn agreement between two parties, in which one or both promise to perform certain actions.”  The Old Covenant refers to the agreement God made with the nation of Israel in which he promised, “I will be your God, and you will be my people” (Leviticus 26:12). God first made this covenant with Abraham, the father of the Jewish people, and reaffirmed it with his descendants (such as Jacob, Moses, and David).

God also promised in the Old Testament, that He would make a new covenant with Israel that would also extend to all of humanity (Jeremiah 31:31; Joel 2:28). This covenant was established by Jesus Christ, and the New Testament tells the story of how Jesus brought it about through His life, death, and resurrection (1 Corinthians 11:23–26).

The Old Testament remains relevant for several compelling reasons. It is a place where we first see the footprints of our Creator and begin to understand His character. We also find evil there too. It provides us with a glimpse of who our enemies are in this world. The oldest book (the first one written) in the Old Testament is a matter of debate. However, a group of scholars believe Job to be among the earliest. Although the exact date remains uncertain, strong evidence suggests that Job lived in the 2nd millennium BC. Consequently, the Book of Job was likely written around that time, making it the oldest book in the Bible. It is in the Book of Job that we first begin to see God and Satan in our world. It is how we begin to know both.

The Old Testament not only provides a foundation for knowing the God we cannot see but also lays the groundwork for the Incarnate God that the world can see, Jesus Christ. Here we find the Mosaic Law, Israel’s history, and prophecies about the Messiah. Without this context, there is no basis for understanding the New Testament. The Old Testament contains valuable teachings about God’s heart, His ways, and His wisdom. It provides us with insights into human nature, sin, redemption, and the consequences of disobedience. It offers us the first glimpse of God’s plan for humanity. The Old Testament points us to prophecies, demonstrating the continuity between the two testaments. The Old Testament points us to Jesus Himself as the promised Messiah. We also find the foundational teachings, laws, history, and prophecies of the Christian faith.

The many stories, laws, and teachings found in the Old Testament provide timeless ethical and moral principles that are still applicable today. These include principles such as love, justice, compassion, humility, and the importance of community. Jesus did not supersede these; He came to reinforce them.

(Matthew 5:17-18) – “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.” 

Many themes and issues addressed in the Old Testament—such as the pursuit of justice, care for the marginalized, stewardship of the environment, and the quest for meaning and purpose—remain relevant in every modern society. The Old Testament offers valuable insights and guidance on how to navigate these complex issues. It is an evolving text that remains subject to interpretation, study, and application by religious scholars, theologians, and everyday individuals in various ways. While its teachings and messages are open to reinterpretation and application in response to changing cultural, social, and ethical contexts, God’s Truth remains steadfast. By searching for Truth in the 4,000+ years of history, the Old Testament continues to inspire, challenge, and teach individuals and communities around our world.

“We find Christ in all the Scriptures. In the Old Testament, He is predicted, in the Gospels, He is revealed, in Acts, He is preached, in the epistles, He is explained, and in Revelation, He is expected.” ~ Alistair Begg

The authorship of both the Old Testament and New Testament is a complex and debated topic among scholars. Traditional Jewish and Christian belief attributes the authorship of various books to different individuals, including prophets, scribes, and leaders, all under divine inspiration. If one considers that the many books were composed by multiple authors or communities over an extended period, as proven by archaeology, wisdom, and consistency, there is no doubt why the Bible is considered the inspired Word of God. It is the Bible’s diversity of thought and story that establishes its uniqueness. The Bible holds the distinction of being the best-selling book of all time. Estimates exceed 5 billion copies sold and distributed worldwide. The Bible has had a profound impact on history, culture, and spirituality, making it a cornerstone of human literature. As of 2020, the full Bible has been translated into 704 languages. The New Testament has been translated into 1,551 languages, and parts of the Bible have been translated into 1,160 additional languages.

The entire Bible, including the Old and New Testaments, tells the story of God’s rescue of humankind from the consequences of their free will and sin. The Old Testament tells the story of paradise lost, and in the New Testament, paradise restored.

(Revelation 21:3) – “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.’”

Conclusion

Salvation by Faith: The New Testament emphasizes salvation by faith in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament contains glimpses of this Truth, the New Testament clarifies that faith in Jesus is central to our relationship with God. Good works and obedience to the Law no longer contribute to salvation; it is through faith in Christ’s sacrifice that we are reconciled with our God.

God’s Triune Nature: The Old Testament hints at God’s Trinitarian nature (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). However, the New Testament explicitly reveals this truth:

• Jesus, the Son, claims His divinity (John 10:33).
• The Father is acknowledged in heaven (Matthew 6:9).
• The Holy Spirit is recognized as God (Acts 5:3–4).

God’s Mission and Hope: The New Testament not only commands Christians to engage in God’s mission but also to tell the story of that mission. It reveals the motives and methods of the apostles, offering hope to believers as they participate in God’s redemptive work.

Jesus as the Suffering Servant: The New Testament identifies Jesus as fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. He is the suffering servant predicted by Isaiah, offering salvation to all (Matthew 12:15–21; Luke 4:16–21; Hebrews 9:11–28; 1 John 2:1–2).

In summary, the Old Testament is essential to having a true understanding of the Bible and God’s unfolding of His plan of Creation. The New Testament deepens our understanding of God’s love, grace, and redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. Together, they unveil the heart of God and invite us into a personal relationship with Him.

Contemplations

• How do you spend time with the Bible?
  • Ideas to Explore: Audiobooks, reading, studying using supplemental commentary, discussion groups, listening to sermons and others speaking on God’s Word, the Internet, etc. (There is no incorrect way)
• What are your goals when you spend time with God’s Word?
  • Ideas to Explore: Grow in faith, remove concerns, seek answers to questions you have about our world, find hope, etc.
• Do you see the Old and New Testaments as one story?
  • Ideas to Explore: Is it one story to you?
• How do you reconcile those parts of the story that are difficult to understand or believe?
  • Ideas to Explore: Our salvation is faith-based. Faith is believing in what we cannot see or understand. Would you expect to find every answer to every question in God’s Word?
• If salvation is a process based on repentance and faith, where do you see the benefits of God’s entire story changing your life and giving you hope?
  • Ideas to Explore: Our time in this world constitutes a process called sanctification. That is, walking and getting to know our Savior. Like any walk, it has a destination. Where are yours?

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Bias refers to the inclination or prejudice for or against someone or something. It often manifests as an unfair preference for or against a particular group, individual, or idea. Bias can influence decisions, perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. Unfortunately, bias can lead to unfair treatment or judgment. One of the most powerful Bible verses addressing bias is found in the book of James.

(James 2:1-4)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, ‘Here’s a good seat for you,’ but say to the poor man, ‘You stand there’ or ‘Sit on the floor by my feet,’ have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?”

God intends to treat all people equally. This means that we are not to show either favoritism or manifest thoughts of predisposed bigotry toward anyone over factors such as wealth or appearance. God does not, however, prohibit us from having differing opinions. Our personal experiences, both positive and negative, shape our biases. The culture and values passed down to us through generations contribute to the formation of biases. Culture is based on shared beliefs, values, customs, traditions, and behaviors. Biases, however, reflect a predisposition toward each other. Biases all too often result in unfair treatment or judgment. Beliefs and attitudes learned from family, peers, media, and the community influence how we perceive and interact with others. Unconscious biases, also known as implicit biases, are the automatic preferences or prejudices that we hold without even being aware of them. Implicit biases are the most dangerous! Marketing, media, and politics feed on implicit biases.

(Proverbs 21:2) – “A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart,”

The Bible does not explicitly use the terms “unconscious biases” or “implicit biases.” These are modern psychological concepts. However, our Bible emphasizes the importance of introspection, humility, and fairness in our interactions with others.  Additionally, the Apostle Paul tells us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others” (Philippians 2:3-4).

The question before us is how to avoid or correct unconscious biases. To help us, we will look at the Book of Proverbs. Proverbs are not unique to Christianity. They can be found in many cultures and traditions. The Book of Proverbs is attributed primarily to King Solomon, with contributions from other authors as well. A proverb is typically drawn from observations of human behavior and the natural world. They convey timeless truths about human nature and the world around us. They are meant to be both instructive and thought-provoking.  Here are four to help guide our thinking on unconscious bias.

• (Proverbs 18:17) – “In a lawsuit, the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines.”
• (Proverbs 18:13) – “To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.”
• (Proverbs 18:15) – “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.”
• (Proverbs 18:2) – “Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.”

In media, whether social or news-related, advertising, or politics, our best advice from Solomon seems to say that we should be careful, give consideration, listen, and seek understanding before making judgments or decisions. While these passages may not explicitly state “hear both sides of an argument,” they underscore the principle of being fair-minded and open to different viewpoints. Slogans and headlines are all sensationalized today to establish or trigger unconscious biases in our society.

Biases can distort judgment and decision-making processes. They lead to suboptimal or even harmful outcomes. They harm any society or nation. Whether in personal interactions, organizational policies, or societal institutions, biased decision-making undermines fairness, effectiveness, and trust. Prejudiced attitudes and behaviors are formed, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, and feelings of alienation or marginalization. We can see in the world’s history how enemies take advantage of prejudice. We can find an example in Luke 10:25-37. The well-known “Parable of the Good Samaritan” is a story illustrating how prejudice and stereotypes blinded individuals to the needs of others. The story shows us how compassion and kindness overcame prejudice, as demonstrated by the Samaritan’s actions.

Ignoring bias is dangerous because it undermines trust.  If people perceive that the information they are consuming is slanted or unfair, they become skeptical of all information. This erosion of trust can have far-reaching consequences for democracy and informed public discourse. When media, marketing, or politics prioritize sensationalism, spin, or partisan agendas over facts, they have falsely altered public opinion, undermining the democratic process. The public’s ability to make informed choices has been damaged.

God, in His Word, has been clear about bias, whether unconscious or not. He states:

Love Your Neighbor – In both the Old and New Testaments, the Bible instructs believers to love their neighbors as themselves (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:39). This principle underscores the importance of treating others with compassion, empathy, and respect, regardless of their background or identity.

Equality Before God – The Bible teaches that all individuals are created in the image of God and are therefore equal in dignity and worth (Genesis 1:27; Galatians 3:28). This principle emphasizes the inherent value of every person and rejects discriminatory attitudes or practices based on factors such as race, ethnicity, or social status.

Justice and Fairness – The Bible repeatedly calls for justice and fairness in dealings with others, urging believers to act with integrity, honesty, and impartiality (Deuteronomy 16:19-20; Micah 6:8). This includes advocating for the rights of the marginalized, defending the oppressed, and standing against discrimination and injustice. Proverbs 18:5 reminds us, “It is not good to be partial to the wicked and so deprive the innocent of justice.”

Avoid Partiality – The Bible warns against showing favoritism or partiality based on outward appearances or social status (James 2:1-9). Instead, believers are called to treat all people with equality and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Repentance and Transformation – The Bible acknowledges the reality of human sinfulness, including biases and prejudices, and calls individuals to repentance and transformation (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:22-24). This involves acknowledging one’s own biases, seeking forgiveness, and striving to live according to the principles of love, justice, and reconciliation.

Throughout our world’s history, God has been addressing issues such as justice and equality and condemning attitudes and actions that promote bias or unfair treatment of others based on their characteristics.

(Job 36:17-23) – “But now you are laden with the judgment due the wicked; judgment and justice have taken hold of you. Be careful that no one entices you by riches; do not let a large bribe turn you aside. would your wealth or even all your mighty efforts sustain you so you would not be in distress? Do not long for the night, to drag people away from their homes. Beware of turning to evil, which you seem to prefer to affliction. God is exalted in his power. who is a teacher like him? Who has prescribed his ways for him, or said to him, ‘You have done wrong?’”

This is why the Bible is so critical to us, teaching us how to avoid the ideas and biases that are offensive in God’s eyes. That is why without God, the world is biased, prejudiced, and discriminatory. Without God’s Word, we have no hope; without Christ, we have no forgiveness.

Contemplations

• Where do you see the media, advertising, and/or politics taking advantage of unconscious biases?
  • Ideas to Explore: The repeated use of short phrases or acronyms such as MAGA, LGBTQIA+, and DEI.
• Where do you see the use of difficult-to-define terms that are often misunderstood or misrepresented?
  • Ideas to Explore: Where or who uses these terms: Social Justice, Equity, WOKE, non-Binary, racist?
• How do you protect yourself against the influence of your own unconscious biases?
  • Ideas to Explore: Always seek opposing opinions before making decisions; avoid the use of stereotyping; use the Bible as a guide to decision-making.”
• When was the last time that you realized what you had believed for years was wrong?
  • Ideas to Explore: Unfortunately, unconscious biases are static. If you have trouble here, this could indicate you need to put more effort into fact-finding.
• What do you personally do so that you do not pass on your personal biases to your children?
  • Ideas to Explore: This may be the most prevalent way hatred is passed on to subsequent generations. Everyone needs a plan on how to filter their own biases.
• Are all biases bad?
  • Ideas to Explore: We all love sports teams, a certain college, a favorite restaurant, a type of car, our neighborhood, etc. These are normal biases. However, when they interfere with our ability to respect others or become hateful, one might want to do some self-examination.

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