Theology Is For Everyone

Theology Is For Everyone			by Julie Ackerman Link Some say that theology is only for “professionals.” But the situation in the days of the prophet Jeremiah illustrates why it’s important for everyone to know what God says about Himself. The religious experts in Jeremiah’s day were misrepresenting God by prophesying “the delusions of their own minds” (Jer. 23:26 NIV) and leading people astray with their lies (v.32). Due to their dishonesty, the people did not know the true nature of God. Today there are people who portray God as angry, vengeful, and eager to punish people for every minor offense. God, however, describes Himself as “merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth” (Ex. 34:6). Others show the world a picture of a loving God who is too kind to punish wrongdoing. But God describes Himself as one who exercises judgment and righteousness (Jer. 9:24). He is both a just Judge and a loving Father. If we emphasize one over the other, we paint a false picture of God The most important thing we can know about God and proclaim to the world is that God does not want to punish people; He wants them to repent so that He can forgive (2 Peter 3:9). But to be truly loving, He must also be absolutely just.
Read: Jeremiah 23:25-32			( Jeremiah 23 -Audio-)
I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. —Jeremiah 9:24			Though love for God should always move My heart to do what’s good and right, It’s wise to fear His judgments true And stand in awe of His great might. —D. De Haan Everyone must face God as Savior or as Judge.
Bible in a Year: Judges 1-3; Luke 4:1-30			"Reflexions from Our Daily Bread" Posted by: Ben Ayala :  benayalal@gmail.com Thanks to the Sources at: rbc[dot]org  -and- odb[dot]org Follow Pastor Tony at: www.facebook.com/roberto.bonillacea