QUESTION: Should we make an issue of Bible translations?
ANSWER: Only if you believe anything out of it.
EXPLANATION: Many Christians attempt to evade the issue of whether or
not there really is a perfect Bible (as they are told from the pulpit)
by piously hiding behind the statement, "I don't make an issue of
Bible translations."
It is perfectly acceptable to assume such a position as long as you
are consistent in your stand...or lack of it.
In other words, if the issue of a perfect Bible is a "non-issue" with
you, then to be consistent, neither should be ANY of the following:
1. The virgin birth of Jesus Christ. Isa 7:14
2. The deity of Jesus Christ. I John 5:5
3. The substitutionary death for sins made by Jesus Christ. Romans 5:8
4. The bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ. I Cor 15:4
5. Salvation by grace alone without works. Eph 2:8,9
6. The Pre-millennial return of Jesus Christ. I Thess 4
7. The existence of a literal Heaven. John 3:13
8. The existence of a literal Hell. Mark 9:42-44
9. The acceptance of Creation over the theory of evolution. Gen 1:1
This is by no means a comprehensive list of convictions held by those
who call themselves "Fundamentalists." Yet every one is taken from the
Bible. How on earth can a thinking, rational person make an issue or
have a conviction on something that they have taken out of the Bible,
but see "no issue" concerning the perfection of the Book on which they
base their every issue? IF the Bible has mistakes in it, then how can
we be sure that it is correct in those passages on which we base our
convictions?
Some may say, "I accept the Bible where it is accurately translated."
Fine! THAT is the statement of faith of every Mormon in the world! WHO
is to judge just where the Bible is "accurately translated?"
No, it is impossible to make "any issue" over even one doctrine from
the Bible and claim not to make an "issue" over the Bible itself.
Why then do people make such a statement? Basically, it is out of fear
of the consequences of such a stand. They are afraid of the rejection
of their friends, family, and fellowworkers.
How bold for the truth are you?
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