There are many opportunities to learn. However, not all those opportunities are maximized. This is often due to what might be behind questions being asked as the reasons people ask questions can vary greatly. Some genuinely want to know the answers; they do want to learn. Others just want to see where others stand; to see if the position on an issue is shared or if there is a difference of opinion. Still others may ask only to try to test or trap as some of the Jewish leaders did with Jesus on a number of occasions. (i.e. Matthew 22:35) That reflects really no desire to learn anything that might otherwise be beneficial to life.
In his second letter to Timothy, Paul noted two kinds of learners. Paul referred to those who are. . .
“(7) always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 3:7 ESV)
There are those who may have gained a lot of knowledge, but not necessarily wisdom for applying it to life. Some have filled their heads with all kinds of ideas — even the latest ideologies of the day — while being unable to come to grips with the real truth amongst it all. In this world there are those who might be categorized as “educated fools” while other simple-minded folk do quite well at recognizing how life ought to be lived.
Paul went on to note the learning of Timothy in writing. . .
“(14) But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it (15) and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:14-15 ESV)
Timothy had received some wonderful spiritual teaching and nurturing through his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. (2 Timothy 1:5) From an early age Timothy had become familiar with the “sacred writings”. He had come to understand Christ Jesus as the fulfillment of all the promises the Scriptures had referenced. Through that understanding he came to know the salvation in Christ.
We are all learners. The real question is what kind? Where are we in relation to the two above mentioned categories of learners? May our life remain based on the Scriptures; life built up on the foundation of the truth of God and our Lord Jesus Christ. That which we have learned we need to continue in, remembering the source of that knowledge and wisdom is from God.
Have a great day RECOGNIZING THE PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS OF GOD’S WORD FOR DAILY LIVING!
Carl
