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Question 4

He describes theologians as people who “read their own concept of Christianity back into the Scriptures” and therefore turn even John’s writing into a treatise; where do you feel most tempted to treat the New Testament as a system to master rather than a kingdom life to enter, and what does that temptation reveal about what you want from Christianity?

Another way to ask: Where are you most tempted to treat the New Testament like a system to figure out instead of a way of life to follow? What does that say about what you want Christianity to give you?

Direct Answer The transcript points to a temptation to approach the New Testament mainly as material for building a theological system; that temptation often reveals a desire for mastery, control, or status (“wise and prudent”) rather than simple obedience to the kingdom life Jesus taught.

Support from Transcript:

Bercot says theologians “read their own concept of Christianity back into the Scriptures.”
Because they thought theology is Christianity’s essence, “they turned Paul into a theologian like themselves.”
He says this also affects reading John: “Even the writings of… the Apostle John, become theological treatises.”
He connects the issue to pride in expertise by raising Jesus’ saying about God hiding things “from the wise and prudent” and revealing them “to babes.”
He contrasts this with Jesus’ focus: “the kingdom and living the kingdom life.”

Discussion Follow-ups In what ways might “system mastering” be an attempt to feel secure without the hard work of actually living the kingdom (relationships, integrity, sexual purity, truthfulness, etc.)?

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