Moishen M Phom
Aizawl Theological College, Mizoram
In a world swirling with divisions and conflicts, where the relentless chase for power seems to dominate our lives, we must ask ourselves: where do we turn for clarity? What is it that we truly seek in this chaotic landscape? Today, we are bombarded with information from all sides- social media rants, news headlines, flashy ads, and the chatter of everyday conversations all vying for our attention. These voices shape our perceptions and set the trends, often blurring the lines between what is genuine and what is misleading. Yet, amidst this overwhelming information, one word rises above the rest- timeless, steadfast, and unchanging: the eternal Word of God.
The Word embodies divine truth- an unchanging, transcendent essence that surpasses human comprehension. In stark contrast, “words” are mere echoes of the world: distractions, temptations, and human-made doctrines that divert us from faith. The cacophony of the world clamors with countless voices, each offering promises of fulfillment, yet none can truly quench the thirst of the soul.
John the Baptist’s ministry highlights the importance of maintaining a clear distinction from worldly evils. In Luke 3:9-14, he points out human shortcomings and underscores the urgent need for repentance. He warns that “the axe is already laid at the root of the trees,” indicating that imminent judgment awaits those who don’t turn back to God (Luke 3:9). Additionally, he addresses specific moral failures, advising tax collectors to take only what is fair (Luke 3:12-13) and encouraging soldiers to refrain from extorting others and to be satisfied with their wages (Luke 3:14). John’s message is that true repentance goes beyond mere outward appearances; it requires a genuine transformation guided by the Word.
Karl Barth reminds us of the centrality of the Word in theology. In an age where intellectualism often precedes faith, it is essential to recognize that belief is grounded not in elaborate philosophical concepts but in a sincere, steadfast engagement with the Word. Science will continue to evolve, theories will shift, and interpretations will multiply, but our loyalty must remain steadfast to divine truth.
Friedrich Schleiermacher, the renowned theologian, argues that we must embrace the claims of the Word instead of constantly questioning it. To genuinely connect with the Word, we should position ourselves as open and willing recipients, ready to receive its profound truths. Just as a seed requires fertile ground to grow, faith requires a heart that is humble and receptive. Although scientific inquiry might cast shadows over certain aspects of faith, like the transfiguration, our pursuit of the Word must be rooted in reverence and holiness. As Adolf Schlatter poignantly writes:
Where do I find the ground of my faith? Like Luther, not in the Church, but in Christ alone; not in myself and my works, but solely in the grace of Jesus. What gave me in the pulpit the power to fit me for spiritual office? The Word, simply the Word, not art, not science, nor law, but the Word of Jesus.
The intention is not to imply that the Church lacks relevance; rather, it is to underscore that the foremost aspiration of humanity should be the pursuit of the Word above all else. The Church, at its optimum capacity, functions as a vessel for the Word, rather than a substitute for it.In numerous instances, contemporary society demonstrates a stark divergence from the principles outlined in the Scripture. The valuation of human worth is often dictated by power and wealth, while the incessant quest for status has come to define success. Within the Church, the prevalence of biblical illiteracy is alarming. As noted by Darrell Harrison, “The number one threat to the Church today is biblical illiteracy.” This sentiment is further echoed by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who asserts, “The Church does not need brilliant personalities but faithful servants of Jesus.” Paradoxically, despite a general aversion to being labeled as corrupt or immoral, many individuals engage in hypocrisy, professing their faith while disregarding the teachings of the Word.
The influences of contemporary culture often attempt to overshadow the teachings of the Word of God. The relentless pursuit of wealth, social standing, and the approval of others frequently results in a sense of emptiness. In contrast, the Word provides life, purpose, and foundational truth. The call to walk with God has never been more urgent in a world swayed by fleeting desires and moral relativism. As C.S. Lewis astutely observed, “Look for Christ and you will find Him, and with Him, everything else thrown in.” In this postmodern context, it is essential to emphasize not merely the acquisition of knowledge or power, but rather the genuine desire to dwell in the Word.
Amid the countless distractions that surround us, a powerful sense of hope prevails. Every individual possesses an innate desire for goodness, truth, and justice. Deep down, humanity is steadfast in its pursuit of meaningful insights. These insights are accessible in the Word. It is within the Word that individuals discover authentic direction, meaningful purpose, and true fulfillment.
