Weekly Thought – November 11, 2014
Fred often spoke about the need for intellectual integrity in Christian leadership. He pointed out the perplexing problems which lie as potential traps. Too often we develop a head for God, but not a heart. Pride in knowing the “God of the Universe” impairs our humility. “Thinking we’re not accountable to the rest of humanity because God, by His grace, has chosen to bless us is the surest way to spoil all He’s done.” This week the focus will be on more of Fred’s thoughts about intellectual integrity.
As we pray about our plans for the Breakfast With Fred Leadership Institute in the coming years, we ask for your prayer support, your encouragement, and your financial gifts. Thanks to so many who send emails, call, and even write with pen and paper! Please join us in praying for our future BWFLI locations and team members.
What’s Your IQ?
In a conversation with a former pastor, he asked a very telling question, “Smith, I respect your intelligence. How in the world can you still believe in the authority of Scripture?” I knew he would argue with a rational defense, so I simply said, “There was a time when I thought about taking your position because there was so much in the Bible I found distasteful. I realized it was this distaste, not disbelief, that prompted me. I didn’t want to believe the parts of Scripture that commanded me to act. I didn’t want to lose control of my life and make obedience more important than knowledge.”
I think a lot about the level of integrity in the Christian leadership community. Sadly, the integrity quotient is not commensurate with their intelligence quotient. (more…)