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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

 

Dear Rev. Graham: I am part of a televised Bible study and there are many things I question. Since I’m not a Bible scholar, I often defer to the one “teaching” the Bible. But often the instructors don’t back up their claims with Scripture. Isn’t that the purpose of a Bible study? Specifically here at Christmastime, there is a discussion on how one sibling can be so giving and the other self-absorbed, blaming others for their selfishness; yet both grew up with the same parents and training. How can this be? – G.S.

 

Dear G.S.: Culture has developed a victim mentality that allows people to fall prey to casting blame on someone else or something else. We must get this fact firmly fixed in our minds. People do wrong when they should do right. Why? Because of sin.

God has given us the power of choice – to reject His salvation or to receive His salvation and become a new person in Christ. Some people do not wish to accept the responsibility for their actions. They blame society or circumstances. But Adam sinned in a perfect environment under perfect circumstances. We must accept the blame ourselves for our sin. While a good environment can be a positive influence, each person is responsible for what they ultimately believe about God, sin, and salvation. Each person has the freedom to look into God’s Word and read it, hear it, receive it, and live by faith in Him.

If we want our faith to grow, we must let the Bible begin to saturate our minds and souls, and the Holy Spirit will enlighten [and teach us] the truth of His Word.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)