Zambia Hunt

Warren Wiersbe, in his commentaries, was fond of reminding his readers, “Blessed are the balanced.” The concept of “biblical balance” refers to the idea of understanding and living out the teachings found in Scripture without denying or minimizing other teaching of Scripture, even when we do not fully understand how they harmonize. It emphasizes the importance of not going to extremes in interpretation, practice, or lifestyle but rather seeking a middle ground that is faithful to the scriptural text.

The mission can be severely hindered or lost completely when we do not recognize the importance of maintaining biblical balance. Some have drifted off into false doctrines, others have focused on secondary or even tertiary issues at the expense of primary doctrines. When this happens it always affects the mission.

Here are some key areas where we should seek balance:

1. Doctrinal Balance: It involves interpreting Scripture in a way that avoids extreme positions or one-sided views that can arise from focusing too closely on particular passages at the expense of others. For example, balancing the sovereignty of God with human responsibility or justice with mercy.

2. Spiritual and Worldly Balance: This aspect focuses on living in the world but not being of it, as Jesus taught. It means engaging with the world around us, fulfilling our roles and responsibilities, while not compromising biblical values and principles.

3. Feelings and Truth Balance: Biblical balance also involves managing our emotions and thoughts in a way that is consistent with biblical teachings. This includes dealing with anger, fear, and anxiety in ways that trust in God’s sovereignty and care.

4. Work and Rest Balance: Reflecting on the biblical principle of Sabbath, this aspect emphasizes the importance of rest and worship in addition to work. It recognizes the value of both in leading a fulfilling and balanced life where we trust in God to accomplish His work through us.

5. Faith and Work Balance: Balancing faith and works involves understanding that salvation is through faith alone, as Paul writes, but also recognizing, as James says, that faith without works is dead. It’s about living out one’s faith in tangible, loving actions towards others.

6. Grace and Truth Balance: Jesus was described as full of grace and truth. This balance involves lovingly speaking the truth while also extending grace and forgiveness, in both our relationships and interactions with others.

Biblical balance is living with the tensions of Scripture, allowing the full body of Scripture to hold us in balance. It enables the Christian to keep the main thing, the main thing as we strive to fulfill our calling to glorify God with our lives.