Daily Word: Hearing Others

Proverbs 27:17 says: As iron sharpens iron so a man sharpens the wit of his friend. (JPS) The JPS Study Bible comments: "If this translation of the difficult verse is correct, it means that good conversation sharpens the wits." This verse is not about aggravating someone in the name of "sharpening," instead it is about improving the intellect of one another. The Hebrews believed that truth was understood as issues were debated. Whereas the Christian church divides and splits when there is a difference of opinion, the Hebraic approach was to engage the debate and try to understand the other view.

How might the modern day evangelical movement be different if the Hebraic approach was used? First, there would not be so many denominations. Second, I think we would treat each other better. Third, the emphasis would not be on our mental belief in doctrine, but on our actions. The emphasis on what we do is very Hebraic. The verse today would help us to appreciate differing opinions. The Jews didn't separate and create a new Temple just because there was a difference of opinion on the issue of life after death or the existence of angels. We could learn much from their approach to different viewpoints.

Today, ask yourself, "Do I listen to other opinions?" Or, do I think I know everything? If you belong to a denomination, you probably think that you do know everything. The reason is that the group tells you what to think. If you are willing to listen to the opinions of others you will find that you are being sharpened. Being sharpened is good. It will make you more useful to the Kingdom. Don't be afraid of differences, engage them and be sharpened!