Your Experiences Are Not God

It would be difficult to not appreciate and respect J. I. Packer for his contributions to God’s kingdom. I rarely read something from Packer that does not impact me. Today I read an article about Packer’s protest against the Anglican Diocese of New Westminster in 2002 over the issue of blessing same-sex unions. Of course homosexuality has been prevalent in the news lately and I’m sure that was the reason for the article, but his defense against a pro-homosexual interpretation of Scripture spoke to me as much more broad than the issue of homosexuality.

Packer argues that one way to mis-interpret Paul is to “let experience judge the Bible.” In the case of homosexuality (or other sinful sexual expressions), experience suggests that the behavior is fulfilling to some and as a result of these experiences, the Bible’s prohibition must be viewed as wrong. Packer goes on to say, “The Bible is meant to judge our experience rather than the other way around.”

Experience driven interpretation that has paved the way for many Christians to re-interpret the Bible’s teachings on homosexuality. Among those who have recently changed their views on homosexuality, many cite a close relative or friend who has come out as their reason for changing their views (i.e. David Gushee).

Unfortunately, it is not only in the affirmation of homosexuality that Christians allow their experiences to shape their interpretation of the texts. For instance, sex outside of marriage is clearly regarded as sin in the Bible, but rarely regarded so among those who profess Christ and are sexually active.

Anytime we begin the process of biblical interpretation with our experiences and then move to God’s word, we are in danger of re-interpreting the Bible according to our own desires rather than intention of the biblical author. Our feelings are a poor standard for biblical interpretation. Most people did not feel dead and unable to do good before they became a Christian, and yet God’s word says that it is true. We do not always feel secure in our faith, and yet Jesus says that he will not let us go (John 10:29).

The Bible is meant to judge our experiences. The next time you read God’s word and think, “I don’t feel that way,” remember that God’s word is working to change you. Will you re-interpret God’s word and resist change, or will you allow God’s word to judge your experiences and emotions and conform you more and more into his image?