Are you with me?
If you and I took a walk in the woods together, we would notice very different things along the trail. I would notice tiny details, little spots of color and texture, and the interplay of light and shadow. You might notice the wide expanse of the forest or be able to identify every creation by name.
Despite our different knowledge and interests, we could still enjoy walking together on the same path. As we walked, we could point out what we see to each other, and that would enlarge both of our perspectives and knowledge.
This is how it is when we walk together in the same Spirit. I spot a truth in the Bible and tell you what I notice. Then you do the same with a truth that you notice. Our perception of life’s journey (and our use of the world) may be very, very different. But as long as we walk the same Pathway to Eternal Life in Jesus Christ, our points of view will be compatible and enlightening.
If, however, we walk along different pathways, you won’t be able to see (i.e., understand) what I want to show you, and I won’t be able to see what you want to show me. Our pathways may have similarities but they aren’t the same, so we won’t be able to see the same things. This is known by the intelligentsia as having “differing worldviews.”
When I talk about avoiding rock music, and wearing skirts, and living at home, and questioning experimental courtship, and boycotting C.S. Lewis … these are choices I’ve made based on what I see in the Bible. I realize they aren’t God’s thou-shalt commandments. These things reveal my interests, weaknesses, and points of view, not any spiritual superiority or pride.
These things may not help you in the way they do me, and I appreciate that. So when I talk about my theological opinions—(those things which are neither commanded nor forbidden by God’s law)—please understand that I am not showing off, or being superior, or saying, “Do it my way.”
What I’m saying is, “Looky, looky at this neat truth over here! Don’t miss this one! It’s SO beautiful!”
And since I won’t see what YOU see unless you tell me, send me a link to your blog and tell me (and others) what it’s like from your vantage point.