I really enjoy the writings of Peter Enns, and follow his blog quite closely. He recently asked the question in the title of this entry: Does Jesus care more about what we do or what we believe? He argues convincingly that this is not a false dichotomy or straw man he’s created, but rather a genuine ‘choice’ that many conservative Christians try to make. If we were forced to make this choice, Peter is very clear what he sees in the Bible: Jesus is more concerned about what we do.
Read his excellent blog entry at his own blog (and subscribe to it while you’re there), or read it below.
Does Jesus care more about what we do or what we believe? (I’m going with the first option)
by Peter Enns
This question came to mind a few weeks ago as I was sitting in church, thinking more highly of myself than I should.
This isn’t a new question, by any means, but it’s still a deeply meaningful and relevant question for me.
Upon what does God look more favorably: loving others, even those who may believe differently, or prioritizing right thinking about God?Now, you veterans of this sort of question are no doubt rolling your eyes right now, wondering how I can miss the obvious: “Hey Enns, go back to seminary. Everyone knows that right thinking and right behavior are not an either/or but a both/and. Jesus wants both.”