Thursday, March 22, 2012

YOU CAN QUOTE ME

"If you will not have Jesus' life as an example then it can only serve as an accusation."
JBT

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I think this quote may fall under http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/False_dilemma
but I still like it.

Josh Tate said...

Thanks for the comment, anonymous. I'll have to think about that. Clearly scripture presents the life and ministry of Jesus as an example for all Christians to imitate. That is quite literally what it means to be a "disciple." A disciple is not one who merely collects ideas, but who sincerely imitates his master's example in how they actually live day to day- one who genuinely follows His example. So if a Christian will not follow His master's example in obedience then I don't believe the Spirit will allow them to proceed without some degree of discomfort in their spirit- chastening and correction. Jesus' life will inspire obedience or it will confront us with our waywardness. If Jesus' life does not serve as a Christian's example then encounters with the Master will be uncomfortable and convicting. I'll think about it some more, but I don't think that's a false dilemma. St Ignatius wrote at length along these lines in his writings on Christian Discernment and discerning Spirits. You should check it out!