--Titus 3:9
Our days are few, and are far better spent in doing good, than in
disputing over matters which are, at best, of minor importance. The old
schoolmen did a world of mischief by their incessant discussion of subjects
of no practical importance; and our Churches suffer much from petty wars
over abstruse points and unimportant questions. After everything has been
said that can be said, neither party is any the wiser, and therefore the
discussion no more promotes knowledge than love, and it is foolish to sow in
so barren a field. Questions upon points wherein Scripture is silent; upon
mysteries which belong to God alone; upon prophecies of doubtful
interpretation; and upon mere modes of observing human ceremonials, are all
foolish, and wise men avoid them. Our business is neither to ask nor answer
foolish questions, but to avoid them altogether; and if we observe the
apostle's precept (Titus 3:8) to be careful to maintain good works, we shall
find ourselves far too much occupied with profitable business to take much
interest in unworthy, contentious, and needless strivings.
There are, however, some questions which are the reverse of foolish,
which we must not avoid, but fairly and honestly meet, such as these: Do I
believe in the Lord Jesus Christ? Am I renewed in the spirit of my mind? Am
I walking not after the flesh, but after the Spirit? Am I growing in grace?
Does my conversation adorn the doctrine of God my Saviour? Am I looking for
the coming of the Lord, and watching as a servant should do who expects his
master? What more can I do for Jesus? Such enquiries as these urgently
demand our attention; and if we have been at all given to cavilling, let us
now turn our critical abilities to a service so much more profitable. Let us
be peace-makers, and endeavour to lead others both by our precept and
example, to "avoid foolish questions."
