So many verses in the Bible graphically display the need for correct handling that it boggles the mind why there is still so much false teaching and fig leaf solutions to the human problem. I suppose fear has overtaken love and Christian leaders lack the diligence to interpret the word of God because they do not see the need. Here are a couple of questions Moses put to the people in his care as Yahweh prepared them for their possession of the land of Canaan. The questions contained in the two verses are concerned with (a) what kind of God do people have and (b) what kind of governance that God provides for his people. The difference between the two is striking and the call for correct handling (rightly dividing or cutting straight) is seldom clearer.

“For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the Lord our God whenever we call on Him? Or what great nation is there that has statutes and judgments as righteous as this whole law which I am setting before you today?” (Deuteronomy 4:7-8, NASB)

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15, NASB)

This verse contains another of the Greek words with ORTHO prefixed, but this one is the vector for a great deal of shenanigans, bogus instruction, gimmicks and elementary interpretation of the Scriptures.

 

I cut straight…

Orthotomeo, ορθοτομεω, has to be with reference to CHRIST, because noone else could be the measure or straightedge for confirming God’s will and testimony.

The close God and his gift of guidance

God gets no closer than living inside of human beings, and that is a fact established by the holy spirit being poured out and received by those who believe at Pentecost and every case thereafter where Christ gives his approval and acceptance to people who come to God through him. The image however of God giving statutes and judgments to the church to make it the distinct entity from the world has no basis in fact it is that very Holy Spirit who gives to the believers who God accepts the guidance into all truth and the delivery of the excellent things that are in Christ. It is not acceptable written rules and regulations such as were put before the Israelites in Moses’s day.