by Carole
Possibly the most notable shift in Christianity over the centuries is the introduction of “my” and “me” to our vocabulary. While it may seem harmless, the addition of “my” alters not only our focus but also the cultural response. Let me show you how destructive the “my” doctrine is and how it so insidiously ensnares us.
Me-centered faith is entirely unbiblical. It shifts the attention from Christ to me.
Jesus says that we must deny ourselves take up our cross and follow Him. He also tells us that if we save our lives we will lose them. Paul says, it is no longer I who live, but Christ in me. (Matt 16:24-25, Gal 2:20 paraphrased) Clearly, after His Spirit is birthed within us, and we become new creatures, our life is it is not about us but about Him. Let’s become He-centered rather than me-centered.
Faith in faith is idolatry. This promotes faith in us rather than faith in God.
When I say “my faith“ or “my belief“, I’m unintentionally suggesting an end rather than a means. Yes, I have faith. But faith and belief are only as good as their object. I may have faith in a broken chair, but that does not alter reality when I sit down and come crashing to the floor. When someone says “my faith” I’m always inclined to ask, “your faith in what?” If we suggest that it is about “our faith” rather than about the God in who we place that faith, we are making ourselves the author and finisher of faith, rather than the Lord of glory.
The addition of my opens the door to subjectivity. I have my faith, you have yours.
In our pluralistic culture, “my faith” and “my belief” and “my God” are perfectly acceptable and noble phrases to use. It suggests that truth is relative and subjective, and while I have my faith, you have yours. It removes the uncomfortable and disturbing notion of reality, and pushes Christianity into the confines of the personal realm. Try saying that you "know God exists” rather than you “believe in God.” It will be shocking how uncomfortable everyone will be. But isn’t this what you mean when you say you “believe in God?” We must use definitive, uncompromising statements when we discuss the truth. Don’t expect to be well-received.
The one true God verses "my" God.
While there is nothing wrong with saying “my God”, we must again be sensitive to the cultural assumptions built in. When I’m among Christians, its easy and comfortable to say“our God” and this is right and good. God Himself says, “I will be your God, and you will be My people…” Ezekiel 36:28. But in public, among those who don’t know Him, we must clarify. What God? Who is God? The one true God. The God of the Bible. The God who is there.
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