Splitting Hairs?

I know a certain female Misha (not real name). Most of the time when we run into each other we always have some really great discussions about God and the Bible. Usually it is about the words in the Bible.     One of my so-called 'gifts' is the study of what is translated correctly in the Bible along with what has been added to it or is a flat out lie that is supposed to be in it. Most do not understand that I have been through almost every major denomination in this country and I have heard alot of incorrect teachings and claims over the years! This is one reason that I do not do to much of an institutionalized church setting!     Anyway, Misha is usually on my case because of my as she calls 'hair splitting.'  She is of the impression that so long as you are born again, look to Jesus, and you try to do what is right, then you are pretty much doing all that is necessary. While these things are great and of importance, there is something to knowing how the Bible was written and to whom it was written to and why. It helps to know what it really says. You cannot do the will of God if you do not know what the will of God really is. That's why we are told to study The Word! 2 Timothy 2:15 (King James Version) (15) Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth     Studying the Word of God is not just reading it and then memorizing a few verses here and there! One should be studying The Word as if they were going to fail an exam that their careers depended on!    Misha tells me that it is not my duty to respond to the incorrect teachings of some of the televangelist or the preachers within a church. Her theory is that it is up to the congregation to learn if it is right teaching or not and to just let the preacher go at it as if it's all good! 2 Timothy 4:1-3 (New International Version) (1) In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: (2)Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. (3)For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society     More to come in my next blog.