We live in a world seeking instant gratification. The “god of this world” has been largely successful in convincing humanity to allow itself to be governed by and addicted to the desires of the flesh (2 Cor. 4:4; 1 Jn. 2:15-17). Pursuing long-term good often requires us to set aside short-term pleasure. Spiritual discernment is essential to the development of spiritual maturity (Heb. 5:14). A “dessert-first” mentality does not create a healthy spiritual environment. What tastes good now, as measured by its emotional charge, may not produce a lasting foundation for spiritual growth if it is not founded upon a solid foundation of biblical truth.
In religious circles, many are seeking preaching that is pleasant – preaching that stirs emotions without challenging beliefs. Finding sound doctrine distasteful, many seek out “teachers in accordance to their own desires, and…turn away their ears from the truth…” (2 Tim. 4:3-4).
Many of the tragedies we read about in the Old Testament are examples of what happens when enjoying “the passing pleasures of sin” becomes more important than exercising spiritual discernment (Heb. 11:25). In the days of Jeremiah, the people were promised rest if they would but seek “the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk in it.” Though it was a good path, they said, “We will not walk in it” (Jer. 6:16). Why not? Because it did not suit their spiritual appetite. Governed by their fleshly desires, they rejected God’s invitation.
More often, in the church, evidence of distaste for God’s word is seen, not so much in riotous rejection of the message preached, as in ambivalent disregard for applying its teachings to daily life. Insight into the hearts of the people who came to hear the preaching of Ezekiel is provided by the Lord who said the people come and sit before you and “hear your words, but they do not do them….Behold, you are to them like a sensual song by one who has a beautiful voice and plays well on an instrument; for they hear your words but they do not practice them” (Ezekiel 33:31–32 cf. Jas. 1:22-25).
In the end, appreciation for God’s word is evidenced by our obedience. God’s word is both good and tasty! More next week.
–Glen Elliott–