RUNNING FROM THE TRUTH

„Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son”.

(2John 9 / NIV)

Is this a new way liberals love talk of themselves? They like to refer to leftist ideologies as “progressive”. In this term the opposite meaning is implied to conservatives. In the view of the left, anybody holding orthodox views, is clinging to the past, and must be against progress.

In this verse, found in the Second letter written by the apostle John, the progress of the Gospel and the so called “progressive” attitude - in this case toward the Person of Christ - are mentioned side by side. Obviously, this is a sarcastic reference to individuals offering their “advanced” teaching, as opposed to revelation and the personal knowledge of the “old” John.

What will those leave behind who “run ahead” instead of continuing “in the teaching”? Their advancement takes them to territories outside the purview of truth. Offering themselves in the expense of truth, they reveal the true nature of the liberal mindset. I am not qualified to venture out to other fields, like politics, economy or the social sciences, but their misuse of the Scriptures and their presence in the life of the church suggest a deep desire and need for self-gratification, for the worship of the self. As John says, they “do not have God”.

The breading ground of liberalism is unqualified openness, or staying closer to the theme of Second John: love separated from truth.

In the presence of truth deep humility is required. The advancement of the sciences is a story of true humility put to work in search of a better understanding of truth. So it is with the advancement of the Gospel. The road to a deeper understanding of the ways of God is traveled by men and women in awe of the Lord Jesus revealed in the Scriptures. They are His disciples, walking, indeed advancing with Him toward the Knowledge that awaits them in Glory.

Be aware of the God-less “progressive”!

Lord Jesus, you called me to be your follower. I want to follow your will in all aspects of life. In regard to my relationship with you, and my responsibilities in your Kingdom, help me to remain on the side of truth, as revealed in the Bible. Thank you for the work of the Holy Spirit, on whose help I rely as I study Your Word. Amen.