Dr. Barclay with Something to Think About - FRIEND(S)

FRIEND(S)

It is evident from history that most, if not all, cultures throughout our past have developed religious practices. Religion has always been man’s attempt to reach out to and placate the gods. In many cases these practices have included elaborate rituals, fairly rigid rules regarding lifestyle, ways and times of prayer, and food and dress restrictions. In addition, in many cases, such practices have also included sexual activities and/or sacrifices in the form of infants, children, or young persons in an attempt to make things right with the gods.

The gods to whom a large part of the world gives worship are aloof and distant and seem to exist to keep those under their influence in a state of anxiety and trepidation. The names by which they are known are usually suggestive of power and loftiness.

Fortunately, such gods, even though worshiped by many, do not really exist. It is also fortunate that the true God is unlike those mentioned above. The Bible states that the true God is our Father, an intimate term, and that:

 

God is love. 

(1 John 4:8)

It is also reported that, in the book of Hosea, God said:

…I desire mercy and not sacrifice,

And the knowledge of God more than [sacrifice]. 

(Hosea 6:6)

This comes from the One who is not distant or aloof but intimate and concerned about those who respect and worship Him. This is the God of Christianity who wishes a relationship with those who love Him and to whom He returns love. Those who have the wisdom to fear Him in awe and humility have no need to be in a state of anxiety or trepidation in their relationship with Him for the Bible says that:

 

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;

A good understanding have all those who do His commandments…

(Ps 111:10)

…But fools despise wisdom and instruction. 

(Proverbs 1:7)

So, with the proper fear of God and the understanding to try and do His will, we can have a relationship with God unlike that in any other religion; a relationship built on love and respect, not anxiety or worry. No other spiritual relationship has had a god come to earth to relate to his people as has God in the form of Christ. More so by realizing and accepting that, we have the promise of not only:

 

…becom[ing] children of God…

(John 1:12)

…children, then heirs - heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ… 

(Romans 8:17)

…but also of not being servants, always attempting to please a distant deity. As He said:

No longer do I call you servants, 

for a servant does not know what his master is doing; 

but I have called you friends, 

for all things that I heard from my Father I have made known 

to you. 

(John 15:15)

And                 

Greater love has no one than this, 

that to lay down one’s life for his friends.

(John 15:13)

By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. 

(1 John 3:16)

To not be a slave to a distant deity but to be in that relationship which makes one an heir of God and a friend of the creator of the universe truly does give one something to think about and be thankful for.