Sometimes we get into arguments in our Bible studies. Big arguments, sometimes, because we’re talking about big things--God, faith, sin, life--big things, important things. And we don’t always agree. So we argue. AND I LOVE IT! Sometimes the Bible studies make some of us feel uncomfortable, but that’s exactly what they’re intended to do.

I was leading a study a couple of years ago, and I asked a question. The group just sat there in silence for about three minutes. I repeated the question--more silence. Finally, somebody said, “Jim, I think you’d better give us the answer.”

These are not that kind of Bible study. The whole point of studying scripture the way we’ve been doing it is to challenge our assumptions in order for our faith to grow. We’re not there to simply affirm what we already believe, but to go deeper into the Word of God to broaden our understanding of God’s will for our lives.

And so we need to let scripture challenge us and get beyond what I call “bumper sticker theology.”

We may say, “Jesus love me.” Okay, but what does that mean? How does being loved by Jesus change the way you live?

Or “God is always with me.” Okay, but what does that mean? Is God with you when you sin?

Or “God is everywhere.” What does that mean? Was God in the cancer that killed my mother?

The great thing about these Bible studies isn’t that we agree about articles of faith. The great thing is that we struggle--together--for a deeper understanding of God’s grace. And the really great thing is that the Holy Spirit is in the stuggle with us.