Get Over Yourself

Get Over Yourself

Comments on Galatians with an ear to Luther’s commentary

Scripture Text: Galatians 2:6 and Revelation 19:11-16

Series: Comments on Galatians

Today's Scripture Jigsaw

Someone said it well: “Get over yourself.” We should also get over our high estimation of others. So much tribute is paid to what this writer said or that preacher said. What does the Word of God say? Churchgoers would say that they esteem the Word of God highly since these men or women they esteem teach it. Really? How would the average churchgoer know someone teaches the Word of God? Far too many churchgoers read the Bible when it suits them, when they are looking for answers or comfort. They do not read the Word of God because they want to better know God. They certainly do not read it to check the teaching of the latest Christian book or CD. They simply accept it as true because it bears a Christian label. Perhaps this is the most pernicious form of respect.

Churchgoers assign authority to products because they are allegedly Christian. Whether it is a book or a t-shirt or a politician, more honor is afforded the product with the Christian label. In doing so, many slide the Word to a lesser place of honor. Labels are easy; the Word is discipline. People are not to be exalted, but we churchgoers seem to exalt them every day, especially if they are “stars” with a Jesus label. Instead, we are to lift the Word of God to the highest honor in our lives.

Yet, it is too easily imagined that most churchgoers will remember quotes from the SNL Church Lady but not the LBW Magnificat (or at best, neither). They will recall a line from a book or movie but not from an epistle. They may esteem the teaching of Billy or Beth but not know if Jude or Esther are Old or a New Testament works. Face it: churchgoers do not esteem the Word of God as they ought. You can begin to change that fact today.

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