"Repetition"

 

“Repetition”

 

One of history’s greatest preachers was the 18^th century Englishman John Wesley. Apparently one of his favorite Scriptures was John 3:7, “Ye must be born again.” (KJV) because one of his listeners is said to have asked why he preached on it so often. Wesley’s answer: “Because ye must be born again!” His repetition emphasized this truth that Jesus spoke to Nicodemus some 2000 years ago which hasn’t changed since then (and never will).

Repetition is an effective teaching tool. I had a high school chemistry teacher who drummed formulas, atomic numbers and scientific terminology into us day after day, much to our annoyance at times, but when it came to the New York State Regents Exam we were prepared and most of us did fairly well. Of course, the downside to this practice can be a lie told often enough that we eventually believe it to be true. Nevertheless, if we take the attitude that “I’ve heard this before.” and turn our ears off we limit our opportunity to gain further insights and understanding.

The value of repetition is nothing new—we see it throughout Scripture. Note these examples:

Proverbs 14:12: “There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.” (NLT). This statement also appears word-for-word in Proverbs 16:25.

Luke 13:3: “But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” Jesus reiterates this warning two verses later.

Matthew 7:16: “By their fruit you will recognize them.” Our Lord uses the same words in verse 20.

Galatians 1:8: “But even if we (i.e. Paul and his co-workers) or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let (that one) be eternally condemned.” Paul immediately restates this truth (with slight variations) in the following verse.

I believe the commands of Scripture are given because our human tendency is to do the opposite. For example, “Fear not” appears 365 times, “Forgive” in its various forms 143 times and “Repent” in different ways 74 times. Do we find it easy to obey these oft-stated directives? If not, do we at least better understand why God reminds us of them (and other ones) so often? Remember, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful….” (2 Timothy 3:16, emphasis added)—including the parts I wish weren’t there—so it’s in my best interest to obey. The question is, do I trust God enough to do it?

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan