June 25
DebDay 103: Confirmation Bias
We've ceased to be an inquisitive culture, haven't we?
Concerning almost any societal question, (mandatory face masks?) we already have our own preconceived opinion. We've already decided the truth of the issue.
Then we devote time to looking for justification for our opinion.
We'll listen to or read just about anyone who agrees with our position, and ignore even demean anyone who disagrees. The sources we like are "trustworthy." The sources we don't like are all of Satan.
In no time at all, our opinions become dogma. Dogma we want everyone around us to adopt. For church people, if the Bible speaks directly to an issue, we'll quote it. If it says something contrary to our position, we'll ignore it. If it says nothing on the issue, we'll add to it. (By the way, this is a definition of legalism. You're welcome.)
The prophet Jeremiah found himself opposed by an alternate opinion. God was finally done with His people. No more patience. No more grace. They would be sent off into Babylonian captivity. Many leaders had already been deported.
Other "prophets" in Jerusalem (and also now in Babylon) were beginning their pronouncements with "Thus says the Lord..." Several said "Nothing to fear," that God would restore everything and everyone back to Jerusalem in just 2 years.
The people were listening only to what they wanted to hear; listening to any prophet who agreed with their confirmation bias.
Jeremiah, speaking for God, said it would be 70 years. Difference of opinion. And Jeremiah tells them why.
Pointed at these false prophets, Jeremiah 29:23 says, "Because they have done an outrageous thing in Israel, they have committed adultery with their neighbor's wives, and they have spoken in my name lying words that I did not command them. I am the one who knows, and I am witness, declares the LORD."
2 outrageous things, actually. They had abandoned God's standards, and at the same time, attributing to God things God never said.
This is another definition of legalism. (You're welcome, again.)
Legalists add to what God has said. All the while, themselves ignoring things God has been quite clear about.
None of us will admit to being legalists, especially when it comes to our church life. Who would?
But perhaps we could admit to our own, personal confirmation bias, when it comes to what's going on around us (?)
-Mike Rydman, Lead Pastor, Radiant Church | Juneau
