Nature v. Grace

Growing up, the distinction between nature and grace was not something that I was taught. As R. Scott Clark on Heidelblog.net says, when we don't distinguish between nature and grace, grace swallows up nature. Effectively, everything becomes holy. Where that becomes a problem is that we assume that God wants to have authority or input into every aspect of our life. I do not believe that is the case.

I believe God already rules and is Lord over everything. There is nothing that he doesn't have command over. But that doesn't mean that he is a micromanager. I now believe that as long as what you want to do, be, or have does not go against Scripture's principles then you are fine. Marrying Jane vs. Judy doesn't matter as long as they are both Christians. If one isn't then they would be disqualified because of the principle of not being unequally yoked. Apart from that it's up to wisdom and personal preference.

Employment is another aspect that people many times over inflate God's desire for input. Again, as long as you aren't doing anything illegal (Biblically or civically) or immoral, you are free to do what you like.

I used to always worry that I was in "God's perfect will". Was I doing what he wanted me to? It became a burden on my heart that I had difficulty bearing. Was Jesus "Lord of my life?" This idea is a symptom of the lack of distinction of nature and grace. This was not explictly something I was taught, but the idea was there and the explanations were poor as to the teaching and beliefs of the church I attended (again, benefits of confessional statements).

If we look at the ministry of Jesus, he didn't burden the people. He did chastise the Pharisees, Sadducees, and scribes, but not the average Joe. In fact, he was nothing but gentle and loving. To the woman at the well, even despite her sin, he was gentle. As church leaders, we should keep this in mind.