Chinese Subtitles (1 John 4:1)

When I was growing up in Hawaii, a favorite activity was to take the bus to Chinatown and watch a Chinese Kung-fu movie. The movies were always entertaining but one aspect that intrigued me was these Chinese language movies displayed both Chinese and English subtitles. Upon further inquiry, I learned that nearly all Chinese language movies and television shows will provide Chinese subtitles. A variety of explanations have been given. The most common and reasonable is that while China has an official national language, Mandarin, there are numerous dialects. In order to minimize confusion and potential misinterpretation by the listening audience, the dialogue is presented with the Chinese subtitles. An analogous situation in the United States would be to provide English subtitles for a show set in the Hawaiian Islands with the characters speaking pidgin english.

The irony is a similar confusion arises when people reference the Bible in their conversations or teachings. Most people are familiar with some Bible passages but many incorrectly quote them, either by errors of omission or commision. But the listener may also be at fault, sometimes hearing or interpreting only what they wish to hear.  If only a Bible were present during this incidents. Like the subtitles, we could immediately compare what was spoken to the actual text.

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.

1 John 4:1 (ESV)

We must always hold up any discussion of the Bible or Christianity to the light of God’s Word. Everyone, especially Pastors and Bible teachers, must be held accountable. The Bible is our subtitle of the Truth for life.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.