This seems to be another telling of the concept of “the first shall be last and the last shall be first.” It is the idea that the values and standards of God’s kingdom produce results that are opposite to the world’s expectations. Here the one who lives by his “pride” (1346) and sees himself as being better than others will end up on the bottom. The educational systems of our world are teaching self-esteem and self actualization. The Bible is teaching a “humble” (8217) “spirit” (7307).
We are supposed to be out of step. We are supposed to be different. It is not that our goal is the difference but that our goal is eternal.
Sometimes I revel in the language of the KJV. One phrase I like appears twice in the New Testament.
(Titus 2:14 KJV) Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
(1 Peter 2:9 KJV) But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:We are to be a “peculiar people.” Modern translations point out that this means a “special possession.” If we were the home of a stereotypical octogenarian we would be a knick-knack that was placed on the shelf of honor. We would be the treasured souvenir to be high-lighted and shown off.
We are to be a holy people. We are to be different.
So? Don’t try to blend in with the crowd. It would be like trying to dance a waltz in 4/4 time. It just doesn’t work. Viva la difference.
No comments:
Post a Comment