Although I chose the path of medicine as my career, I have always maintained my interest in music, both as a player and listener. This interest began as a child and I recall writing an essay in elementary school that expressed my desire to become a record producer. For most of my life, I immersed myself in the genres of traditional jazz and rock and roll of the sixties and seventies. Unfortunately, it was done with the neglect of most contemporary genres of popular music because I regretfully admit that I can’t listen to it! And this is why I knew I would never be able to become a record producer because a critical skill is their ability and willingness to listen to all genres of music, distill the key components, and adapt it to their own style. While different, the final product still maintains the signature sound of the record producer. By closing myself off to new genres and ideas, I became insulated and static in my growth as a musician and a person.
Can this happen with spiritual growth?
There are many issues that currently confront the Christian Church, topics that are never mentioned in the Bible: same-sex marriage, gender reassignment, genetic engineering. What should the position of the Christian be on these and many other controversies? Liberal critics aver that the Bible and the Church must adapt and change to address these questions. Yet, God does not change and He does not need to adapt to any situation or person. How does one reconcile these seemingly disparate positions?
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Hebrews 13:8 (ESV)
This is the Truth, and all decisions must be based upon the Bible, the Word of God, which is inerrant and infallible. Truth is absolute but the applications are dynamic and relevant for every situation we encounter. Like a gifted record producer, the challenge is to be willing to listen to a wide range of voices, distill the key components, and apply the principles of the Bible.
For thousands of years, the Church, the Body of Jesus Christ, has successfully addressed and led the way to reform existing social norms of the day, such as the abolition of slavery. There must be a starting point. The record producer does not lose their identity when assimilating different musical genres. God does not lose His identity when addressing complex social and ethical dilemmas.
The Church will listen and act because God always hears and understands.
Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.
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