Attitudes Toward the Word of God

Attitudes are important for they govern how we react to a given situation or thing. If one thinks improperly about an individual and how ready he is to listen to what he says.

You might think that since the Bible is the inspired word of God (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) that people would automatically respect it and the man who proclaims it. But such is not always the case. As you read through the New Testament in your daily study notice the varying attitudes that surface. In your study you will notice basically three attitudes manifest themselves toward the word of God.

1. Some were angered by it. This is the frame of mind of found Acts 7:54-57 and Acts 22:22-23. They were willing to listen as long as what they heard was soothing to the ear; but when they heard that which was contrary to their desire they reacted harshly. Many today upon hearing the truth about the origin of the universe baptism for the remission of sins, oneness of the church, divorce and remarriage and other related topics become resentful and angry. Instead of desiring the truth they resent it and close their ears to it. One’s earnest desire should be to know the truth regardless of how painful it is, for only the truth can set us free (John 8:32).

2. Some were Apathetic toward it. This disposition is found in the cases of Felix in Acts 24, Agrippa in Acts 26 and the rich man of Luke 16. Their attitudes were that of indifference and unconcern, their idea was, some other time! Have you ever sought to teach some precious soul about things eternal to have them respond by saying not now, maybe some other time? How tragic! This attitude can also be noticed in our own assemblies. Have your ever stood in the pulpit or in a Bible class situation seeking to impart to your audience the un-searchable riches of Christ only to see some in the assembly playing with babies, sleeping, playing with their phones or other devices, watching their watch or by facial expressions telling you they weren’t interested in what you were saying. The Bible is the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) and within it is found all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). If such is the case (and it is) it deserves our undivided attention.

3. Some were appreciative of it. This frame of mind is pleasing to God and is to be highly valued. It was found in the three thousand on Pentecost, Acts 2, the eunuch, Acts 8, Lydia, Acts 16:14, 15 and the jailor in Acts 16:26-34. The attitude of Cornelius is to be commended. He did not say, some other time or tell me what pleases me, but the words were “now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things commanded thee of God” (Acts 10:33).

One would think that members of the body of Christ would above all be thankful and receptive to the preaching of the gospel; but tragically enough while many are thankful and receptive, others are resentful and disinterested.

One’s constant prayer and aim in life should be to avoid the angry and apathetic attitudes and to have an attitude of appreciation and receptivity. With such an attitude God is well pleased.

Bill Cantrell

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