I often hear the quote, "Our good deeds are like filthy rags." (Quoting from the book of Isaiah in the Bible - Isaiah 64:6)
Meaning~ When our Holy God looks at the good things that we do, they are actually filthy.
Is that really true? Because MY Bible says:
Eph 2:10 (NIV) For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
If God created us to do HIS good works and He prepared them in advance for us to do, how can they be filthy?
Isaiah 64 is talking about Israel when she had fallen. They thought they were righteous and were worshiping other gods.
I realize that not every good deed that a person does is a God deed! I also realize that motives and heart come into play. But to say that our good deeds are like filthy rags is a misquote of God's Word.
Let's be careful to look at God's Word with fresh eyes. We shouldn't go quotin our "Christianeese" until we have studied to show ourselves approved (2 Tim. 2:15) to God.
2 comments:
Amen! We do have to be careful about misquoting or partially quoting scripture...especially those of us who teach.
Thanks for stopping by my blog so I could find yours!
Alida
Amen! I believe it's fair to say that the Pharisees (then AND now) are prime examples of the "good-deed-doers" adorned in rags. Whatever we do to manipulate God (or others), and for show, is hardly a garment of praise.
Great post!
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