Mysticism and Christianity
There’s a paradox between some Christian cultures. One emphasizes works when it comes to personal development. They practically live by the adage, “Pick yourself up by the bootstraps.” In short, they believe it’s all on them, while forgetting God’s part of the equation. Some have actually put themselves under bondage as a result. The other expects God to do all the work. All they have to do is sit on the couch and live by faith. After all, it’s all about grace, isn’t it? A number of them have turned it into some sort of Christian-mysticism. Let’s address the latter.
You have to do Your Part
If God is to do His part in a person’s growth, that person has to cooperate with Him. He does have some things to say about said personal development. Ironically, many ask Him for things He has already given them. For instance, they ask for more love, joy, faith or patience, even though they’re part of the Fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22-23). It’s a submission issue in this case. The more they are submitted to Holy Spirit, the more the fruit of the Spirit manifests.
Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
How many expect God to renovate their thinking process, aka., renew their minds? The Bible doesn’t say God is supposed to do that; we’re the ones who are supposed to renew our minds.
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Ephesians 4:23-24 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
In some circles, Christians believe they don’t have to read, much less study their Bibles, because they have Holy Spirit. While it is true, He brings things to our remembrance, and teaches us, it’s still an unbalanced view. Again, what does Scripture say?
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth.
Let’s be brutally honest: there is lot of goofy, unscriptural stuff out there. Much of it is due to people not comparing their beliefs, or what they’ve been taught with Scripture. It’s caused a lot of damage in the Body of Christ.
As disciples of Jesus Christ, we cannot afford to be lazy. We have to do our part, if we’re going to grow in Him, and of course, further His Kingdom. When it does come to faith, faith requires obedience. There’s listening to God, and then acting on what’s heard. You can’t just sit there, it’s not inactive. Remember, being a disciple is connected to discipline.
