Do We Have An “I” Problem?
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesIn the parable of the rich man (Luke 12:16-19), we see that the rich man had a definite “I” problem. Notice in this text that the personal pronoun “I” is repeated six times, indicating an attitude of selfishness and covetousness (Luke 12:13-15 – Note the parentheses around each “I” for emphasis).
“And he thought within himself, saying, What shall “I” do, since “I” have no room to store my crops? So he said, “I” will do this: “I” will pull down my barns and build greater, and there “I” will store all my crops and my goods. And “I” will say to my soul….” (Luke 12:17-19).
Do we have an “I” problem today like those folks had in the first century? Yes, we still have an “I” problem today. For example, it is interesting to note that the Apple computer corporation has designed and developed various electronic devices and software beginning with the letter “I” (see encyclopedia article), indicating that these devices are specifically designed for those consumers who just have to have the “latest and the greatest” Apple “I” product, so they can show their friends what “I” purchased in order to stay ahead of the Joneses (virtually impossible to do).
We also have an “I” problem when we see and hear of brethren (the “I like” crowd) who desire to have the “latest and the greatest” denominational innovations, adding to God‘s authorized worship pattern or plan as seen in the New Testament (Acts 2:42; Hebrews 13:15; cf. Ephesians 5:19-20; Colossians 3:16-17). Innovations such as instrumental music, hand clapping, foot stomping, praise teams, choirs, and the list goes on and on.
Yes, brethren, we definitely have a “I” problem in the Lord‘s church. However, there is a heavenly prescribed ointment [eye salve] that will cure this “I” problem — that ointment being the authoritative word of God (Revelation 3:18 – see commentary; cf. Psalm 19:7-8; Colossians 3:17; 1 Corinthians 10:31).
The question is, are we willing to apply this heavenly prescribed ointment [salve] to our eyes in order to clear our spiritual vision (our “I“ problem), thus being able to “see” God’s will with regard to our worship of Him?” (Matthew 13:16; Luke 10:23; cf. John 4:23; Matthew 7:21).
The “choice” is always ours (Deuteronomy 30:19-20; Joshua 24:14-15).
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