Not My Life

Jonah: I firmly believe that daily devotions are essential for every Christian. Scripture clearly shows the importance of regular engagement with God’s Word and prayer. For instance, Psalm 1:2 says, “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” This indicates that meditation on Scripture should be a constant practice. Furthermore, Jesus Himself set the example. Mark 1:35 tells us, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” If Jesus, the Son of God, prioritised daily communion with the Father, how much more should we?

Carl: I believe we need to look at this issue with a broader perspective. While daily devotions can be beneficial, they are not a rigid requirement for Christians. Faith is about relationship, not ritual. Consider Matthew 22:37-40, where Jesus summarises the Law: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’” This speaks to the quality of our relationship with God, not the quantity of time spent in specific practices. Also, life circumstances differ. A single parent juggling work and childcare might not have the time for structured daily devotions, but that doesn’t mean they are less faithful. Colossians 3:17 reminds us, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Faithfulness can manifest in how we live, not just in a specific daily ritual.

Jonah: I agree that the heart of our faith is relationship, but relationships require intentionality and time. Without daily devotions, how can we expect to grow spiritually? In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Paul writes, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” This passage highlights that Scripture equips us for good works. Regular, daily engagement with God’s Word ensures that we are constantly being refined and prepared for what God calls us to do.

Carl: I’m not saying we should neglect Scripture or prayer. But the key is how we integrate these into our lives. The Pharisees were meticulous about their spiritual disciplines, yet Jesus rebuked them in Matthew 23:23 for neglecting “the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness.” What matters most is living out the teachings of Christ. Someone might spend hours in daily devotions but fail to show love or kindness to their neighbor. James 1:22 reminds us to be “doers of the word, and not hearers only.” A rigid focus on daily devotions can sometimes lead to a check-the-box mentality rather than genuine spiritual growth.

Jonah: I believe the two go hand in hand. Without daily devotions, it’s easy to drift spiritually. Hebrews 4:12 describes God’s Word as “living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword.” Daily devotions keep us sharp and attuned to God’s will, helping us avoid the distractions and temptations of the world.

Carl: Let’s not underestimate the diversity of Christian spirituality. Romans 12:1 says, “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” Worship is not confined to a specific time or practice; it encompasses our entire lives. For some, daily devotions are a wonderful tool. For others, moments of spontaneous prayer, acts of service, or simply walking in God’s creation can be equally meaningful.

Our faith calls us to continuously seek wisdom and understanding. It’s vital for us, as Christians, to engage in these dialogues, always aiming to reflect God’s love and wisdom in our lives and the lives of those around us.

Debate: Should Christians Participate in Other Cultures’ Ceremonies?

Jonah: I believe Christians should avoid participating in other cultures’ ceremonies, especially if those ceremonies have ties to religious practices or ideologies contrary to Scripture. As it says in 2 Corinthians 6:14-15, “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers… What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols?” Engaging in such practices may lead to compromising our faith and aligning ourselves with values that contradict God’s commands.

Carl: I believe Christians can engage in other cultures’ ceremonies as a way to build relationships and foster understanding. The Apostle Paul provides a model in 1 Corinthians 9:22, where he says, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” Participation doesn’t necessarily mean endorsement; it can be an opportunity to share Christ’s love through our actions.

Jonah: But participating in ceremonies with spiritual elements could lead to syncretism—blending Christian beliefs with unbiblical practices. In Exodus 20:3-5, God is clear about not worshiping other gods or creating idols. By being involved, even passively, aren’t we at risk of appearing to condone or partake in idolatry? The Old Testament is filled with warnings against Israel mingling with pagan practices, and the same principles should apply to us today.

Carl: I understand the concern about idolatry, but not all cultural ceremonies are inherently spiritual or idolatrous. We need discernment. For instance, when Paul visited Athens in Acts 17, he engaged with their cultural and religious practices to introduce them to the “unknown God.” He didn’t shy away from their culture but used it as a bridge for the Gospel. Couldn’t participating respectfully in cultural ceremonies be a similar opportunity?

Jonah: Paul’s approach in Athens was about correcting their false beliefs, not participating in their worship. Also, in Deuteronomy 12:30-31, God warns Israel not to adopt the practices of the nations they were displacing, saying, “Be careful not to be ensnared by inquiring about their gods, saying, ‘How do these nations serve their gods? We will do the same.’” Isn’t it safer for Christians to remain set apart as a holy people, as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

Carl: Being “set apart” doesn’t mean isolating ourselves completely. Jesus Himself participated in cultural moments of His time, such as weddings (John 2:1-11). He was accused of eating with sinners and tax collectors because He valued relationship over rigid separation (Matthew 9:10-13). Could it be that our witness is strengthened, not weakened, when we engage with others in their context while remaining true to our faith?

Jonah: Jesus participating in a wedding isn’t the same as engaging in potentially idolatrous or spiritually conflicting ceremonies. His actions always pointed people to God. We are called to be in the world but not of it (John 17:14-16). If our participation could cause confusion or lead others to stumble in their faith (Romans 14:13), isn’t it better to abstain?

Carl: I agree that our actions should never cause others to stumble. However, avoiding participation altogether might send a message of judgment or rejection, which could hinder the Gospel. If we approach these ceremonies with prayer, discernment, and a heart for Christ, couldn’t we balance cultural engagement and faithful witness? After all, Jesus’ ministry was about crossing boundaries to bring people into God’s kingdom.

Jonah: I remain cautious. As Christians, we are ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), and our testimony must be clear and uncompromised. While engagement is important, it should never come at the expense of our allegiance to God.

Carl: I agree that allegiance to God comes first. Yet, I believe it’s possible to engage with cultural ceremonies in a way that honours God and builds bridges. We must rely on the Holy Spirit for wisdom in each situation.

Our faith calls us to continuously seek wisdom and understanding. It’s vital for us, as Christians, to engage in these dialogues, always aiming to reflect God’s love and wisdom in our lives and the lives of those around us.

Jonah: I believe the foundation of our faith lies in the past—in what God has done for us through history, especially through Jesus Christ. The Bible is clear: the works of God in history are central to our understanding of Him. Look at Deuteronomy 6:12: “Be careful that you do not forget the Lord, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.” The Israelites were constantly told to remember their past. Shouldn’t we do the same?

Carl: While history is important, I think focusing on the future—the Kingdom of God—is more crucial for Christians today. Jesus Himself taught us to look forward. In Matthew 6:10, He tells us to pray: “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Isn’t that a call to action, to focus on what’s ahead rather than just what’s behind us?

Jonah: But how can we properly anticipate the future without anchoring ourselves in the historical acts of God? The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus are historical events that define our faith. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:14: “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” Our hope for the future is meaningless without these historical foundations.

Carl: I’m not saying we should forget the past, but the danger lies in being stuck there. Jesus’ ministry wasn’t just about recounting past miracles—it was about showing us how to live for the future. Look at Luke 4:18-19, where Jesus declares His mission: “to proclaim good news to the poor…to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.” That’s a forward-looking vision of transformation and hope.

Jonah: True, but isn’t that mission itself built on the historical promises of God? Jesus often referred to the Law and the Prophets to validate His mission. Remember Matthew 5:17: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” By understanding history, we can see how God’s promises are fulfilled, which strengthens our faith in His future plans.

Carl: Yes, but focusing too much on the past can make us blind to the pressing needs of today and the potential for tomorrow. Even Paul, in Philippians 3:13-14, says: “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Doesn’t that suggest that while the past has its place, our eyes should be fixed on the future?

Jonah: The Psalms are filled with reminders to recount God’s deeds (Psalm 77:11) and to trust Him for the future (Psalm 37:4). History gives us confidence in God’s faithfulness,

Carl: I still think the Church today leans too heavily on history and doesn’t do enough to focus on shaping the future—bringing justice, mercy, and love into a broken world. James 2:17 reminds us: “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” To me, that action points forward, building the Kingdom of God here and now.

Jonah: And I’d say that action is inspired by remembering what God has already done. Let’s not forsake the roots of our faith while we work toward its fruits. After all, Hebrews 13:8 reminds us: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” When it comes to witnessing to non-Christians, the historical basis of our faith is non-negotiable. Christianity is unique because it’s rooted in historical events. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4: “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day.” Without these historical truths, what are we even sharing?

Carl: I think many non-Christians are less interested in what happened 2,000 years ago and more in what faith can mean for their lives today and tomorrow. Jesus talked about the future transformation of the world through the Kingdom of God. In Matthew 5:14-16, He says: “You are the light of the world…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Isn’t it more effective to show people how faith impacts the future—both theirs and the world’s?

Jonah: But without the historical foundation, the future you’re talking about has no credibility. Christianity isn’t just an abstract philosophy or moral system. It’s based on what God has already done. For instance, Acts 17:31 says: “For He has set a day when He will judge the world with justice by the man He has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising Him from the dead.” The resurrection is a historical event that validates our message.

Carl: Just citing historical events doesn’t always resonate with people who don’t already accept the Bible as authoritative. Many people are looking for something tangible and forward-looking—something that offers hope and purpose. Take Revelation 21:4, for example: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” That vision of a better future can be incredibly compelling for someone seeking hope.

Jonah: I’m not denying the power of hope, but how do you offer hope without grounding it in something real and proven? Jesus Himself pointed people to the history of God’s faithfulness. In John 5:39, He says: “These are the very Scriptures that testify about me.” The historical fulfilment of prophecy and the reliability of Scripture give people a reason to trust in the promises of the future.

Carl: That’s true, but we have to meet people where they are. Many non-Christians don’t start with a belief in the Bible or a concern for ancient history. They’re often more interested in how faith speaks to their struggles today and offers hope for tomorrow. When we live out the love and justice Jesus taught, we demonstrate the reality of the Gospel in ways they can see and experience. James 2:18 says: “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.”

Jonah: But living out our faith isn’t enough by itself. Non-Christians might see our good works and think we’re just kind people or part of a social movement. We need to explicitly connect our actions to the historical truth of Jesus. Romans 10:14 reminds us: “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?” We need to tell them what God has done, not just show it.

Carl: And we also need to tell them why it matters for their future. Look at Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman in John 4. He doesn’t start with history—He starts by addressing her thirst for something more. Then He points to the living water that leads to eternal life. He connects her current need to the promise of a transformed future.

Jonah: But notice, Jesus also reveals His identity as the Messiah in that conversation—a historical claim! The past and the future are both crucial in witnessing. The resurrection is what makes eternal life possible, and eternal life is what gives the resurrection its significance.

Carl: Maybe it’s not about choosing one over the other but about tailoring the message. For some, starting with history builds credibility; for others, starting with the future offers hope. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:22: “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”

Our faith calls us to continuously seek wisdom and understanding. It’s vital for us, as Christians, to engage in these dialogues, always aiming to reflect God’s love and wisdom in our lives and the lives of those around us.

Jonah: I’ve noticed a concerning trend among some Christians—justifying piracy, like downloading movies or software illegally. I believe this is outright theft and a violation of God’s law. The Bible says in Exodus 20:15, “You shall not steal.” How can you reconcile piracy with God’s clear commandment?

Carl: I think it’s more nuanced. The commandment in Exodus is about tangible theft—taking something that deprives someone else of their possession. Piracy doesn’t involve physically taking something away. It’s more about accessing a copy. It’s worth asking whether the current system of media distribution is just or fair, especially when many people can’t afford access.

Jonah: That sounds like justifying sin to me. Piracy undermines the work of creators who deserve to be compensated for their labor. 1 Timothy 5:18 says, “The labourer deserves his wages.” By pirating, you’re essentially denying them their rightful earnings, which is unjust.

Carl: I agree that labourers deserve their wages, but we also need to consider the larger context. Many media corporations exploit both consumers and creators, charging exorbitant prices while underpaying their workers. Isaiah 10:1-2 condemns those who enact oppressive decrees and deprive the poor of their rights. If the system itself is exploitative, isn’t there a moral case for challenging it?

Jonah: Even if the system is flawed, breaking the law is not the solution. Christians are called to obey earthly authorities. Romans 13:1-2 says, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God.” Piracy is illegal, and engaging in it is defying that God-ordained order.

Carl: True, but there are times when obeying earthly laws isn’t the ultimate priority. For example, when human laws conflict with God’s justice, we follow God. Think about the early apostles in Acts 5:29, who said, “We must obey God rather than men.” If the system limits access to knowledge and culture, might it be a Christian duty to resist?

Jonah: That’s a dangerous path. We’re called to act with integrity and trust God to address injustices. Two wrongs don’t make a right. Instead of pirating, Christians should advocate for fairer systems and support creators in ways that honour God.

Carl: I agree that integrity matters, Jonah, but sometimes Christians are called to act pragmatically to ensure the well-being of others. If someone is using pirated media to educate themselves or enrich their faith, isn’t that a better outcome than remaining in ignorance because they can’t afford it? Jesus Himself said in Mark 2:27, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” Couldn’t the same principle apply to strict rules about intellectual property?

Jonah: That verse is about God’s law being made for our benefit, not an excuse to break it when convenient. Piracy isn’t about survival or faith—it’s about convenience and self-justification. Christians should be above reproach. 1 Peter 2:12 says to “live such good lives among the pagans that… they may see your good deeds and glorify God.”

Carl: But if we focus too much on legalism, we risk ignoring the broader mission of love and justice. Jesus criticised the Pharisees for prioritizing rules over mercy. As Micah 6:8 reminds us, what God requires is to “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Shouldn’t we focus on the spirit of justice and accessibility rather than rigid adherence to man-made systems?

Jonah: Mercy and justice are essential, but they can’t justify sin. If Christians start compromising on something as clear as theft, where does it end? Instead of pirating, we should encourage sharing, lending, and free resources that align with God’s law.

Carl: That’s a fair point. Perhaps the solution is finding creative ways to make media more accessible without violating laws. But I still think it’s worth reexamining how Christians engage with unjust systems. After all, Jesus overturned tables in the temple when the system was corrupt. Maybe it’s time for us to challenge the status quo too.

Our faith calls us to continuously seek wisdom and understanding. It’s vital for us, as Christians, to engage in these dialogues, always aiming to reflect God’s love and wisdom in our lives and the lives of those around us.

Jonah: The concept of the Trinity is a cornerstone of Christian faith. It reflects the unity and diversity of God’s nature as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Scripture clearly supports this doctrine. For instance, in Matthew 28:19, Jesus commands, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Notice the singular “name” used to describe the three distinct persons. This demonstrates their unity as one God.

Carl: I believe the Bible doesn’t explicitly teach the Trinity as a formal doctrine. The word “Trinity” isn’t even in the Bible. The passage you referenced, Matthew 28:19, could be more about highlighting the roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the process of salvation rather than proving a metaphysical unity. For example, the early church didn’t seem to interpret this as proof of the Trinity but as a liturgical formula for baptism.

Jonah: But the Bible often shows the divine nature of Jesus and the Holy Spirit alongside God the Father. For instance, in John 1:1, it says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Later in John 1:14, we learn that “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us,” clearly identifying Jesus as God. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is called God in Acts 5:3-4, where lying to the Holy Spirit is equated to lying to God. Doesn’t this point to a triune God?

Carl: I agree that those verses highlight the divinity of Jesus and the Holy Spirit, but they don’t necessarily prove the concept of the Trinity as understood in later creeds like the Nicene Creed. John 1:1 could be interpreted as showing a unique relationship between Jesus (the Word) and God rather than asserting they are the same being. Early Jewish Christians likely saw Jesus as the divine agent of God’s will, not as God Himself. As for the Holy Spirit, it is often described as God’s presence or power in action, not as a separate person.

Jonah: The unity of the three persons is also evident in 2 Corinthians 13:14, where Paul writes, “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” This blessing brings together all three persons in a way that suggests equality and partnership. How do you interpret that?

Carl: That verse does mention the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but it might not imply a metaphysical unity. It could simply reflect their different roles in the lives of believers: God’s love, Jesus’ grace, and the Spirit’s fellowship. The Trinity as a doctrine was formalised much later, shaped by philosophical debates rather than direct Biblical statements.

Jonah: Jesus Himself claimed unity with the Father in John 10:30, “I and the Father are one.” And in John 14:16-17, He promises the Holy Spirit as another advocate, distinct yet working in complete harmony with the Father and Son. Doesn’t this support the idea of the Trinity?

Carl: When Jesus said, “I and the Father are one,” the context suggests unity of purpose, not essence. The Jewish leaders understood it as blasphemy because they saw Jesus claiming a unique relationship with God, but that doesn’t necessarily confirm the Trinity. As for the Holy Spirit in John 14:16-17, it’s described as “the Spirit of truth,” which could be understood as God’s active presence rather than a distinct person within a triune Godhead.

Jonah: I see where you’re coming from, but I believe the cumulative evidence in Scripture supports the Trinity. The Bible shows that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit share divine attributes and work together in creation, redemption, and sanctification. Even if the term “Trinity” isn’t in Scripture, the concept is unmistakably there.

Carl: I think it’s important to acknowledge that the Trinity is a later theological development, influenced by Greek philosophical concepts. While Scripture highlights the relationship and roles of the Father, Son, and Spirit, it leaves room for diverse interpretations. For me, faith isn’t about rigid doctrines but about living out the love and grace that Jesus taught.

Our faith calls us to continuously seek wisdom and understanding. It’s vital for us, as Christians, to engage in these dialogues, always aiming to reflect God’s love and wisdom in our lives and the lives of those around us.