God’s word is true, yea?
But what about the traditions, influences, and interpretations that people make on that word? Is that necessary true? No… But it’s also not necessarily untrue, as His word holds many mysteries that require some interpretation and usually a more holistic understanding of scripture to do so fairly. Still, when something is not blatantly clear, then it is possible (I would say easy) for people to misunderstand (in earnest; they’re trying their best) or even purposefully misrepresent (for personal or even evil reasons!) the words of scripture.
So I encourage you all to question what you hear and read, even if it’s from someone you deem an authority. The only TRUE authority of all things is God, and He will guide you if you question in earnest. Pray for such guidance and search the scriptures for the truth.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, remember to question your “truths” and you will eventually find the real Truth. If you find the Truth to be in the end what you originally believed then your faith will be strengthened manyfold! If you find it to be other than your original beliefs, then wouldn’t you be glad to find yourself closer to the Truth–God’s truth? For earnest questioning and research, accompanied by the guidance of God sought through prayer, can only result in better understanding and a greater closeness to the Lord.
God is not a god of ignorance, nor does he shun those who wish to increase their knowledge of Him…
The Messiah Jesus (peace and blessings be upon him) said “‘If you continue in my word, then you are truly disciples of mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.'” [John 8:32]
In the Qur’an it is written:
“And among the People of the Scripture is he who, if you entrust him with a great amount [of wealth], he will return it to you. And among them is he who, if you entrust him with a [single] silver coin, he will not return it to you unless you are constantly standing over him [demanding it]. That is because they say, “There is no blame upon us concerning the unlearned.” And they speak untruth about God while they know [it].” [3:75]
So continue in the word, and put not great faith in men–for they are mortal like you and I–and strive not to be among the unlearned.
God bless you all in this season of lent and forevermore 🙂
~Shams
The New New World Order 