23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. (James 1:23 – 24)
Over the last two days, the comments related to Bible Study and our identity have been extremely insightful and encouraging. Thanks to all contributors! As we wrap up our consideration of the Discipline of Bible Study, we turn our attention to the important topic of application.
In the passage above, the parallel drawn between the Bible and a mirror is very interesting, especially in the context of our discussion about the Bible and our identity. Mirrors tell us about our external appearance, but the Bible tells us about our spiritual appearance. If we suffered from memory loss every time we looked in a mirror, we might suffer from an appearance crisis. Based on the passage above, if we don’t apply the word of God, I would argue that we could suffer from an identity crisis.
Please prayerfully reflect on the passage of scripture above.
Something to think about:
Why is Biblical application (as opposed to just knowledge acquisition) crucial for the identity of the believer?
February 21, 2018 at 8:09 am
One of the only magazines I will read cover o cover is Runners World. That alone doesn’t make me a runner. Until I lace up and go for a run, no matter how short or long the run, I’m not a runner.
The same applies to the Word. Be ye doers of the Word and not just hearers. The application is the evidence of my understanding and belief of God’s Word. In putting what I know from His Word into action it changes my heart and defines my identity.
February 21, 2018 at 9:56 am
Exactly Bridget. action speaks louder than words is my way of saying you must apply what you read in the word.
Actually this is very important as many non believers say that they are discouraged when they see so called Christians not practicing what they preach.
February 21, 2018 at 11:51 am
I am extremely convicted by today’s scripture. As one who has struggled with self image (and is acutely aware that the temptation to is always near) I have had to take the time to really ponder and process this. Man looks at the outward appearance, God looks at my heart. These two compete in my life. Sometimes I look in the mirror and a few hours later, after indulging in something deemed unhealthy, I have to look again to see if I gained 5 lbs!!! 😳😂. The question is, am I as diligent and concerned about my inward appearance so as to keep checking it in the mirror of God’s Word? Am I still buying into the worldly images of outward perfection or am I really ready to fix my eyes on Christ and His image of perfection and how I might increasingly reflect it?
February 21, 2018 at 3:38 pm
we have to work past the reflection and be part of the sustance that makes it ie. closer to God.
February 21, 2018 at 9:01 pm
i agree with the comments which emphasizes the importance of both knowledge and actions. I remember as statement made somewhere , which states that ” people are not moved by how much you know, bu how much you care (actions)”.
February 21, 2018 at 10:59 pm
When we do what the Word says, it has an eternal impact on our lives, as opposed to the superficiality that takes place when we only listen to it without obeying it.
February 22, 2018 at 12:36 am
Knowledge alone does not lead to transformation, however, wisdom which is the proper application of knowledge, does. If one’s identity as a believer lies in Christ then it would be our reasonable service to obey His word. Obedience requires application.