Just As It Is Written

10.22.2009

Acts 15:15 15 “With this the words of the Prophet agree, just as it is written..." New American Standard Bible

When we're troubled or perplexed, confused or concerned, where do we go for answers? These men (in Acts 15) were quite concerned about the tension between adherence to Jewish Law and the teachings of Jesus; how it affected Gentiles believers – in short, how does one behave or conduct himself in daily life?

What they came up with was pretty simple: stay away from cultural influence (idolatry), stay away from immorality and for whatever reason, don’t eat the meat of strangled animals or eat foods mixed with blood.

So how do we, believers 20 centuries later in modern American culture, how do we conduct ourselves? Certainly not by following Jewish laws but the same way they did: just as it is written.

I am to guard myself and not get caught up in the influence of my culture. I am to avoid idolatry in any form, to avoid sexual immorality at all costs and pay attention to what I eat; Jewish dietary laws do not apply to me but I’d rather eat dirt than muskrat…

I am to live just as it is written; the Bible is to be my guide. I am to live by the Word of God and I am to do just as my believing brothers in antiquity did: I am to conduct myself in a manner that is pleasing to God and considerate of men – just as it is written.

Father in Heaven,

What I do often speaks louder than what I say. I am to conduct myself in such a manner as to communicate my love for You (through obedience) and my love for my fellow man. Help me to do just as it is written and to seek the guidance and counsel I need for the tensional issues of life. May my life be a help to others and not a hindrance I pray in Jesus’ Name, amen.