"Basin Theology"

"Basin Theology”

 

Bible colleges specialize in teaching the principles of Scripture to prepare people for ministry. Among the requirements are classes in theology, in which the beliefs of our Christian faith are presented topically so students can be “…prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks (them) to give the reason for the hope that (they) have.” (1 Peter 3:15). Sometimes the introductory course is called “Basic Theology”, in which the foundational truths about God, His Word, and His world are explored.

Whether we’re in a formal classroom setting or not, all of us as God’s people need to know the basics of biblical teaching. But there’s an area which sometimes suffers from a lack of emphasis: “Basin Theology.” Jesus modeled this in John 13 when “…He poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet….” (Verse 5). He then explained “Basin Theology” in this way: “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” (Verses 14-15). So basic theology involves the key tenets; basin theology is living them out in love and service to Him and those around us. Since Jesus taught both we must not only believe correctly but live consistently.

As we grow in our faith our basic biblical convictions are to become more and more a part of us. But we can’t neglect basin theology because that’s what those around us see and by which they evaluate the reality of Jesus in our lives (“By this all…will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”—John 13:35). Our New Hampshire Youth Pastor used an open Bible and towel in a basin to picture this dual responsibility for our teens, which soon found its way to the table at the front of our auditorium to remind all of us that we must believe and behave correctly.

It’s time to get back to basics---and basins!

 

Blessings!

Jim McMillan