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Jeff McBee, a friend and Christian Brother at work, recently sent me the following to illustrate how it can be easy to take Scripture out of context to come up with some kooky theology. We must interpret all verses in light of the entire revealed Word of God. Context is key.
Here is how my friend came up with the "new teaching" that Christians should not wear sunglasses. I wouldn't be surprised to find someone actually teaching this somewhere. Oakleys are of the devil. You can't wear those!!!
Christians should not wear sunglasses because the Bible clearly shows how these sun blockers can hamper the ability of others to see the light of Christ in our eyes. Here's the proof text:
1) The eye is the lamp of the body: "Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are good, your whole body also is full of light. But when they are bad, your body also is full of darkness." - Luke 11:34(NIV)
2) The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD: "The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly." - Proverbs 20:27
3) No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden: "No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead he puts it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light." Luke 11:33 (NIV)
The eye is the lamp of the body, and no one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden. Thus, people should be able to see your eyes so that God's light can shine through to them. By wearing sunglasses, you are keeping people from seeing your eyes. This could cause them to miss God's light, which robs God of the glory due Him and could keep others from hearing about the love of Jesus. If you want to really show love to others, you shouldn't wear sunglasses. Who cares if the sun is really bright outside? Get rid of your sunglasses and take one for the team. Let your light shine even on a bright day.
While the above may seem outrageous, it is no less insane then many other personal beliefs that I have heard "Christians" make after taking a verse or two out of context. The Bible exists for us to discover who God is and what He wants from us. It is not a weapon that we use to piece together our own ideas about how life should be lived.
