Thoughts Worth Thinking

“Out of My Element”

The phrase seemingly has as many explanations as there are individuals to explain its concept. Usually, it has to do with someone who feels “out of place” or “insufficient to the task” within a certain realm. Obviously, it is an expression of loneliness and discomfort. It expresses a sentiment of being “inferior” to another’s abilities, either physical or mental. Unfortunately, some souls seeking the truth of God’s Word, depart from the opportunities of LEARING the TRUTH, thinking they are “out of their element.”

Carefully examine Romans 12:16 – “Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.” We focus on two parts of this passage: “condescend” and “low estate.”

“Condescend” means “to take off together, that is, transport with (seduce, passively yield): - carry (lead) away with, condescend.” (Strong #G4879). Thus, to “condescend to men of low estate” is to “lead as if going together; to transport in companionship”. The context of the verse shows us Paul speaks of “instructing others.” Being of the same mind requires discussion and reasoning with a SINGLE STANDARD OF AUTHORITY. In this case, that authority is the Word of God. Therefore, we are to “lead as if going together; transport in companionship” those of low estate when instructing in God’s Word.

“Low estate” means, “depressed, that is, (figuratively) humiliated (in circumstances or disposition): - base, cast down, humble, of low degree (estate), lowly.” (Strong #G5011) Obviously, in context, it speaks of those whose comprehension/understanding of TRUTH is “depressed, humiliated, base, cast down, humble, of low degree.” Being of the same mind one toward another requires we that have knowledge must PATIENTLY, KINDLY AND LOVINGLY impart this knowledge to those without this knowledge.

Now place the definitions in place as we consider the passage. “Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but lead as if going together; transport as with a companion, those of depressed, humiliated, base, cast down, humble comprehension/understanding of God’s Word. Be not wise in your own conceits.” [The last sentence should find easy understanding: “Don’t be conceited in your own thinking; be HUMBLE!”]

TEACHING requires LEARNING just as LEARNING requires TEACHING in order to affect the greatest success of each part. Teachers, whose instruction is above the comprehension abilities of the students, make the students feel “out of their element.” Students, who consistently challenge the teacher (not with increased desires of learning, but to “take him in his speech” as Pharisees attempted to do with Jesus), often cause the teacher to feel “out of his element.” Neither accomplishes the MANDATORY objective of LEARNING. (Matt. 11:28 – 30)

Both teaching and learning require HUMILITY. Arrogant behavior has no place in any part of the Kingdom of Christ, the church! Our Lord is proof of this reality. Wiser and more powerful than all men combined, our Lord nonetheless, “humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” (Phil. 2:8) Never do we find Jesus expressing arrogance; especially when teaching others - ALL of whom were “depressed” in relationship to His astute knowledge! Though He taught with authority, it is because of His humble manner of speaking/teaching, that people were astonished at His doctrine (Matt. 7:28 – 29) and the common people heard Him gladly (Mark 12:37). When any teacher makes students feel “out of their element,” that teacher is “too big for his britches.”

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Thus Far

God has been extremely kind to us regarding the weather this winter – that is, “thus far.” Often, January creates extreme conditions of travel and sheer existence. We’ve been blessed in having no serious troubles at all – “thus far.” Might serve us all well to show our appreciation for the many blessings we have received and those we shall need in the future, for we can’t thank Him enough for His care and keeping of us … thus far!

Mike’s Musings …

That Old Time Preaching

Only your age will determine your understanding of “old time preaching.” Personally, I muse on the preaching of men who were well into the “three score years and ten” when I first heard them preach. Many lived well into the four-score years and a few past four-score and ten. These men seldom cared for “time,” and in fact, few complained about the frequency of their hour-long sermons! However, that isn’t what constitutes “old time preaching.”

These men were true scholars of God’s Word! Some would use “bed-sheets” for their charts and work all week on one chart. They detailed every aspect they could of the passages so we gained a full understanding of the subject. They feared not to declare the truth to saint and sinner alike; naming the sin instead of “sterilizing sin” as many today are wont to do. They would get boisterous, but not “yell” at us; emphatic without being caustic. They were not hasty in their departure from the building at the close of services. Often, these men would remain for an additional hour or more to help those whose interest remained keen, but understanding weak. Their only commentary within any sermon was using Scripture to explain Scripture. Most importantly, they made the sermon applicable. As one brother said of a respected preacher, “He puts the salve on the sore!”

I do not suggest such preaching is non-existent in today’s pulpits. I do suggest RECEPTION of such preaching is less than in times past. Seemingly, some have “watered down the preaching” in order to “enlarge the crowds.” Doing so starves the souls in need of meat, and doesn’t grant a great deal of wholesome nourishment to those in need of the milk of the word (Heb. 5:12 – 14). Factually, rather than criticizing the preaching, it often appears the HEARING should be criticized! Souls just don’t seem as eager to accept the preaching of truth as we noted not so many years ago! The old preachers would readily question, “the fire in your hearts for the Lord’s truth.”

I’m NOT musing for old times to return; but admittedly I muse on what we’d find if each soul would express a true attitude of “revive us again.” (Sadly, some would sing that song so Unenthusiastically as to require our revival!) What a wonderful enlargement of love, dedication and delight we’d see in our brethren if we’d increase our love adoration for that “old time CONTENT” of truth and righteousness!!!

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