How do we navigate and respond to biblical teachings that may be challenging or difficult?

Navigating and responding to challenging or difficult biblical teachings requires careful discernment, humility, and a sincere desire to seek God's truth. Here are some principles to consider:

1. Seek God's Guidance: Approach challenging biblical teachings with a humble and teachable heart, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit. Pray for wisdom, understanding, and discernment as you study and reflect on the Scriptures. Trust that God will illuminate His truth as you earnestly seek Him.
2. Study the Context: Context is crucial in understanding difficult teachings. Examine the broader biblical context, including the historical, cultural, and literary background of the passage. Consider the intended audience, the purpose of the writing, and the overall message of the Bible. This helps ensure a balanced and accurate interpretation.
3. Consult Reliable Resources: Engage with reputable commentaries, Bible study guides, and theological resources to gain insights from trusted scholars and theologians. Consult a diverse range of perspectives to foster a well-rounded understanding. However, always weigh these perspectives against the authority of Scripture and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
4. Embrace Intellectual and Spiritual Growth: Wrestling with challenging biblical teachings can lead to intellectual and spiritual growth. Embrace the opportunity to expand your understanding of God's Word and deepen your faith. Allow yourself to ask questions, explore different interpretations, and engage in respectful dialogue with others who have studied and grappled with similar issues.
5. Seek Guidance from Wise and Mature Believers: Engage in conversations with trusted mentors, pastors, or spiritual leaders who have a deep understanding of the Scriptures. Their wisdom and experience can provide valuable insights and guidance in navigating difficult teachings. Be open to their perspectives and allow them to challenge and sharpen your understanding.
6. Embrace a Teachable Heart: Approach challenging teachings with humility, recognizing that our human understanding is limited. Be willing to admit that certain aspects of the Bible may be difficult to fully comprehend. Trust that God's ways are higher than our own, and that some mysteries may remain beyond our complete understanding in this present age.
7. Trust in God's Character: Even when faced with challenging teachings, trust in the character of God. Recognize that His love, justice, and wisdom are perfect and that His Word is trustworthy. Hold onto the foundational truths of Scripture, such as the nature of God, the deity of Christ, salvation through faith, and the call to love and serve others.
8. Embrace the Tension: Some biblical teachings may present tensions or apparent contradictions. Allow yourself to sit in that tension, recognizing that faith requires trust in God's sovereignty and our limited understanding. Hold onto the truths that are clear and foundational while acknowledging the mystery and complexity of certain teachings.

Ultimately, navigating and responding to challenging biblical teachings requires a balance of intellectual rigor, spiritual discernment, and trust in God's guidance. Approach difficult passages with humility, seeking wisdom from trusted sources, and allowing the Holy Spirit to lead you into a deeper understanding of God's truth.