The End of Argument, The Beginning of Faith

The waning days of 2007 have found me thinking a lot about Hebrews 2:1-4.  Part of the reason for this might be because I taught from this passage yesterday at our Student Church.  Part of it probably also has something to do with the fact that Hebrews has occupied a lot my thinking recently as I think about and evaluate the condition of the church in Mongolia.  I see several similarities between the church in Hebrews and the church in Mongolia.

• A growing number of second generation believers
• Largely untaught/undiscipled believers
• Fairly significant numbers who are leaving the church and the Christian faith
• A lot of people in the church that seem to be 'on the fence'

As I think about the beginning of 2008, my own heart is challenged with the repeated cry of the writer of Hebrews: "Pay attention, do not neglect".  God's Word is not an opinion to be considered and argued about. God's Word is the King's Word to be considered, understood, believed and obeyed.  It is a as I thought about this (and in preparation for yesterday's message) that I thought of this parable. 

Once there was a King with a small kingdom. It was rumored that the King had a great announcement he was soon going to make to his people. Therefore, many gathered in the local gathering place in order to discuss the impending announcement of the King.

One man said, "You all know he is going to raise our taxes – he will probably even give us new taxes so that this year we will not even have enough money to feed our families." A large portion of the people agreed and began to grumble and complain. 

Another said, "Wait one minute. I totally disagree. I am pretty sure that he will announce the implementation of a new food stamp program. Our families will be fed better than ever. He is a good ruler, you know."  Some changed their minds and agreed.  Others held fast to their differing opinion, and argued. 

Another argued, “No, no. That’s not what he is going to do at all. Don't you know he plans to build a new palace outside of town. I have seen the location. They are preparing the ground as we speak. He will use our money and probably force us to work on his little project. What a selfish king we have!"

Soon a great argument between all of the people took place.

In the middle of the argument, quite suddenly, there was the blast of a trumpet and an official courtier from the king’s palace arrived in the square outside. He took out a scroll and spoke with a loud voice for the entire village to hear:

"Here is the word of the King. Today his Queen has borne him a son. All should feast and rejoice with the King for his son has been born."

The King had spoken. All the arguing ceased.  

Hebrews 1:1-4