Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #4 — Sincerely Accurate?

Picture: Counsel #4 — Sincerely Accurate? CCW 6.1

John the Baptist's mission was to pave the way for Jesus' arrival. However, when he ended up behind bars with an uncertain future, he began to question if he had misjudged things. Was Jesus truly the Messiah, or had he made a mistake? John's sincerity was beyond doubt, but this story illustrates that being sincere doesn't guarantee immunity to doubt — even if you have the right beliefs. Sincerity also doesn't ensure accurate understanding. That's why it's essential to approach the Bible with humility and a willingness to let it shape our understanding from beginning to end.^[4] CCW 6.2

“And when John had heard in prison about the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples and said to Him, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?“” Matthew 11:2-3 NKJV CCW 6.3

“Like the Saviour's disciples, John the Baptist did not understand the nature of Christ's kingdom. He expected Jesus to take the throne of David; and as time passed, and the Saviour made no claim to kingly authority, John became perplexed and troubled.” Ellen White in The Desire of Ages 215.2 CCW 6.4

Reflect: How should knowing that sincerity is not a guarantee of accuracy or truth affect our humility and approach to studying the Bible? CCW 6.5