vantage

We were talking about point of view in my philosophy class on Tuesday night. God has given us each a point of view. For now I am talking about a physical point of view. If I were standing on the left side of a desk and you were standing on the right side, we would each see the desk differently. It is easy to see that each of has a point of view physically.

But we also have a metaphysical point of view. As we approach an idea or issue, each of us brings his or her own perspective to that discussion. One's upbringing, beliefs, convictions, and faith shape a person's perspective and how he or she will face that idea or issue.

As a Christian when I enter a Natural History museum, I automatically bring my faith in God as Creator with me. Therefore, when I see displays that give evolutionary dates, I reject those immediately.

It is harder for us to realize, I think, that other Christians, by virtue of their unique upbringing, beliefs, and convictions can have different positions than our own. I think we get caught up in our own point of view so often because of tradition that we think that everyone else must be wrong because they don�t do it our way.

I'm not preaching ecumenicalism. Not at all. We have to remember that we are to be separate and holy. But also of like mind. It's okay if we differ on some traditions or church government or translations.

But we need to be Spirit filled so that our point of view is derived from Scripture and our paths directed by Providence.

jmb

(Proverbs 3:5-6 NASB) Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. {6} In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.