Why Talk About It?

Here are some thoughts from Randy Smith on sin (this is my attempt to paraphrase, he is more articulate than I):

Why do we have to talk about sin so much? Why can't we leave this part out and talk about other things? We talk about sin because it is a reality that corrodes the core of who we were designed to be. A marine in Iraq wouldn’t say, “Why do we have to talk about roadside bombs so much?” It is because these bombs are all over. That awareness, precaution and preparation are a necessity to life. As is with sin.

Definitions of sin

1. Sin is living independent of GOD. Having your own approach toward life. Biblically moving eastward (Genesis 4, 11), the opposite is constant dependence. “Cities are man’s way of bringing heaven to earth, so that we may make names for ourselves.” God says, “I will make your name great.” This week in the news, “Scientists restructure the solar system.” God scoffs at the autonomy of modern man.
2. Sin is transgressing boundaries that God has set. It is doing what God has commanded not do but also not doing what He has commanded.
3. Sin is trying to reach God by your own effort. Building up our own standards to try and reach God is humerous. Striving for perfection is attempting to make mmud pretty. Nations today are a clear picture of man’s sin because of their borders and distinction.

My thoughts: I have this intrinsic drive to be made great. This longing to be a part of something bigger than myself. I find myself wanting distiction and personality and autonomy when I discovering that this identity is provided and complete. Consider these words from C.S. Lewis, "The more we get what we now call ourselves out of the way and let Him take us over, the more truly ourselves we become." This person I was meant to be lies in a Person. A perfect person. Therein I find life and personality and gifting to be who I was created to be and restoration from the brokenness and effects of my living independent from God.

Transformational Talk

A friend just relayed these six things on how to talk in community. He challenged to commit to doing these things for the sake of building up others. And for the sake of memory and consonance…

1. Transformation: in mind and talk, committing to the transformation of people in conversations
2. Trust: believe in other people and choosing to trust
3. Togetherness: when roots of bitterness and resentment grow, actively resist
4. Truth in love: saying a hard thing to someone appropriately, starting and ending with the gospel
5. Transparency: giving appropriate authentic information to a few
6. Teachability: listening and learning. Listen in a way where you’re not compiling your response while they are speaking

These things are good to think on and implement.