Expert: Don Stevens - 11/6/2010

Question
I am so tired of Christians, even leaders, use Hebrews 12:15 as the "root of bitterness" being the cause of injury. It is about love and harmony in the Body not injury to the body!!! Hebrews 12:15:"Exercise foresight and be on the watch to look [after one another], to see that no one falls back from and fails to secure God's grace (His unmerited favor) in order that no root of resentment (rancor, bitterness, or hatred) shoots forth and... Causes trouble and bitter torment, and the many become contaminated and defiled by it--"

I have agreed as a critical nurse and counselor that depression and stress may affect the body to cause certain illnesses but having 3 accidents I certainly am tired of being called out on this. Any suggestions...??? I am having difficulty finding a home church, non-denominational, that is not pushing deliverance or "in sin" therefore accidents happen theory. I have been in leadership and believe life has tribulations period and especially if I have a lot to offer the enemy brings conflict etc. I believe in Grace and not Pharisee law principles.

Thank You,
Donna M Freeman RN M.Ed  

Answer
Donna, first allow me to apologize to you for such a late answer. I just now discovered your question. Although it appears to be more a statement. And, one with which I whole-heartedly agree!

The writer of Hebrews, in my humble opinion, is talking about "falling back" into the temptation of justifying one's self by works alone! The writer makes the SAME argument that you are making! There are many who take Scriptures out of context to make them suit their teachings. I agree with you, this is not one of them! And, even teaches the opposite.

If you study the Book of Job, you will find similarities with your argument. The three friends of Job come and argue to Job that he has sinned and is simply in denial. Job says that he has lost everything precious to him but that he has committed no sin. He resents them making an  accusation that is unfounded.

These three friends were making judgements about God based only on their experience of God. And, who has experienced all there is to experience with God? That's why we need Scripture. I do NOT believe there are any Scriptures to justify the teaching that God always punishes sin with immediate or earthly consequences.

Some things happen to us because of our actions. Some things happen to us because of other person's actions. Some things happen to us because this is a violent world. And, some things happen to us as a consequence of our choice not to live as God would have us live.

Bad things do happen to good people. It is always a test of those good people and their faith. And, the one thing that Satan tries to get us to do when bad things happen is to believe that God is punishing us for past sins that have long been forgiven. Another thing Satan tries to get us to do is to believe that God is not good when He allows bad things happen to us. God is always good! In spite of any and all bad things that He may allow here.

Take heart, there are many Christians who know the fallacy of this works-oriented teaching! I believe churches and preachers use these types of teachings in an attempt to get people to behave. Sad, but true. I think that if God's love and poured-out grace is insufficient to cause one to live for good (God), then threatening punishment would not be the way God would want to draw them to Him. I believe He, like us, wants people to freely choose him every day. And, that is a unique people who understands that His abundant grace is sufficient for them to live for Him until they die! Because they do so, not out of fear, but out of praise and thanksgiving for all He has done for them! Living for God because you fear his wrath is insufficient. It will NOT sustain you when bad times come and persecution draws nigh.

Keep teaching the truth! In all you do, say, and think! I'm in your corner!

May God bless you!