Bible Reading: II Timothy 2
Key Verse: Verse 15 – “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
Key Words: rightly dividing
Let me begin by giving a definition. Experience theology is “when my religious experiences in life give direction to my life rather than the Word of God.” It is said that the experience theology movement has brought back the fire and enthusiasm that has been missing in the churches for years. Gordon Fee says, “While the Pentecostals and charismatics have brought back the fire and enthusiasm in the church, it has been at a high cost, for their theology is based upon experience rather than proper Biblical interpretation.” Now, before you get upset at Mr. Fee, he is a charismatic Pentecostal pastor; but his observation is absolutely correct. Let me explain the problem with this illustration.
I was watching an experience theology television program, and the guest was explaining that his ministry was based on his life verse, Matthew 19:26, “With God all things are possible.” “God gave me that verse,” he said.
“How?” asked the host.
“Well,” said the man, “I was born in 1926 and God said to me, ‘Use the first book of the New Testament and your year of birth and that is my promise to you.’”
So the host quickly grabbed hold of the idea and said, “I was born in 1934, my life’s verse will be Luke 19:34!” and read, “The Lord hath need of him.”
Everyone began to shout, “Amen! Glory to God! Praise the Lord! The Lord hath need of him.”
Now, there is only one problem. Have you ever read Luke 19:34 in context? Read it! It is talking about a donkey – not a man, but a donkey.
Please read carefully. Misinterpreting the Bible is very dangerous. Misinterpreting the Scriptures leads to error, heresy, and apostasy. Keep the Scripture in context. Make sure you are a member of a church that rightly divides the Word of God; and you will be not only better off spiritually but also spiritually safe.
What to do:
✞ Stay away from experience theology churches and televangelists.
✞ Be faithful to all services, including Sunday School and prayer meeting. Much of the basic teaching is done in these services.
✞ If you use commentaries or study helps, use the old commentaries by Matthew Henry, R. A. Torrey, etc.
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