Words Matter
In gaining the perspective needed to make wise decisions it is very valuable to have very clear understanding of words – particularly the words of scripture dealing with our condition. The descriptions of our true condition in relation to God, the world, our own flesh, are much easier to grasp when the vocabulary of description is well understood. In no particular order, the following are used in the things that will be here on Parapedimos.
Soul: The soul is the eternal person – who we are beyond the flesh.
Heart: The heart is the place where decisions are held, or almost where they are made.
Spirit: The Spirit with capitals is the Holy Spirit. It gives us the words of Jesus – sometimes referenced as a quiet voice within. In broader terms, spirit is the pressure we feel to move in a direction including a decision or action. There are three dominate spirit emphasis: The aforementioned Holy Spirit, the Spirit of this world, and our own inclination or pressure.
Mind: The mind is where dialogue takes place – where rationalizing experiences with facts and pressures (the spiritual impetus) get articulated. The odd thing about the mind is that words, phrases, impressions seem to spring up from almost nowhere – they just come out. The Greeks in their mythology would refer to that as the Muse.
Body: Also called the flesh. Make no mistake, the body/flesh can drive some powerful pressures towards gratification or fear.
Disciple: Literally a follower (exercising a discipline) usually of a leader or a set of statements or creeds. A sports fan has some of the attributes of a disciple.
Truth: This is tough for most folks. Facts are not truth; Facts can be events or physical constructs. For example, it is a fact that Jesus lived and died on the cross. One way to discern Truth apart from facts is that Truth is an action or a ‘rule’ nominally based upon truth. The problem comes that verification of Truth shifts from objective personally ascertained observations into truth statements from other people who get trusted. The key is “trust and verify” where verify is to look at the facts. Note that the dominate or primary ‘fact’ here in Parapedimos is that God is, and that He knows us and operates for the greatest good for us.
Love: This is an exceptionally devalued word at this time in all human culture so far as observation can reveal. It is comingled with affection, desire, appreciation, appetite… many many things. So, when people say: “I love you” and also say “I love ice cream” context is applied to the interpretation. The better term for the use of “Love” in conversations using scripture to discuss our relationship with each other and with God is a phrase “Acting for the greatest good.” So, if I love God, I will act for the greatest good towards Him. So, if I say I love God and intentionally sin (Trespass) I am lying – probably without conscious thought of doing so, and probably to myself.
Blessed: To make happy/gratified. Blessed is a consequence of grace or mercy and is not a goal to be pursued in our spiritual life.
Joy: Also “Rejoice.” A few words come in here, but the primary is the celebration or acknowledgement of accomplishment either now or anticipated. Joy absolutely is not ‘Happy.’ The pursuit of happiness is a ‘fools’ errand.’ There is no end to the search, and it can’t be held and treasured.
Sin: Okay, this is really important. There are three words in scripture that get conflated with sin. Sin itself is ‘missing the mark.’ If you consider how to learn, sin is something that happens in the learning side of life. Failing to agree that you sin prevents you from learning. Trespass is intentionally choosing to go and do what you have already agreed you are not to go and do. Iniquity is bringing others with you into Trespass. The Lord’s prayer uses the word Trespass. I John 1:9 discusses Sin. Iniquity is usually referenced as a place where judgement falls in this life. God discusses all three when He declares Himself to Moses (Exodus 34:6)
Mercy: response to a plea for help
Grace: a gift unexpected and needed
Peace: Not fighting, not trying to win
Justice: True recognition of factual truth. People think of Condemnation when they use Justice.
Condemnation: Sentenced or given punishment. Never a surprise to the recipient.