The Preacher's Pen

""I have absolute proof that the Watchtower Society can be proven wrong by its own documents and the scriptures. Do you want to see it?"" I asked. The answer amazed me. I still haven't quite recovered. ""No"" both ladies said emphatically and they turned away and left hurriedly. I did not expect them to believe that my proof would demolish the Watchtower organization they love so dearly but I at least hoped they would look at it. Instead they demonstrated deeply closed-minds.

I am convinced that such can never be the case with a true seeker of truth. A genuine truth seeker will never hesitate to inquire, to think, to reason, and to look at what others might have to say about his beliefs. Even if what is said is offered in an unkind way, or comes from an enemy, or is clearly designed to force you to exchange one belief system for another if you want truth you will examine it with as open a mind as possible. This is the spirit of Acts 17:11 and the Bereans: ""These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so."" What Paul was teaching was radical, new and very different. Did they want to see proof that Judaism's Messiah had come and that Judaism was replaced with a new covenant that allowed all men of all nations equal access to God and His blessings? The Bereans nobly answered ""Yes, we'll see if what you say plumbs with scriptures.""

Alas, it is not just those caught up in man-made religion who have refused open and honest investigation. In the late 1930's some began to question congregational involvement in benevolent homes and sponsoring church arrangements. Many wanted such questions silenced. They did not want to examine such practices from scripture or answer questions about it. Today some brethren steadfastly refuse to discuss, debate, or study about so-called ""fellowship halls"" or church sponsored recreation. Why is this? If we are of the truth and care for the truth then our lives must reflect a willingness to keep thinking, examining and searching for all truth. May God bless that search.