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Reading for the Glory of God

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I believe that the study of secular literature can be a legitimate Christian pursuit if one studies literature to glorify God. First, it is necessary for Christians to be rooted in the Word of God so that everything that is put into their mind is screened through “biblical lenses”. As we read in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, knowledge without the love of God “puffs up”, produces arrogance (1 Cor. 8:1). In addition, Christians need to be careful of the material that they put in their minds. In the same letter, Paul commanded the church to expel any evildoers from their presence because of the influence they would have on the others (1 Cor. 5:11). Christians should fill their minds with things that will inspire worship of God and service to others (Phil. 4:8).

Moreover, it must be understood that many people claim to be Christians, but trust in their own understanding rather than Scripture, which is a direct contradiction of the Word of God (Prov. 3:5-6). People have become wise in their own eyes after consuming knowledge based on human wisdom. Society often influences and dictates the actions of most people and one finds it difficult to see a difference in the behavior of many professing Christians and the rest of society. One does not need to study literature to understand the problems with society. The Bible is sufficient for all of our needs (2 Tim. 3:16). The debate of evolution vs. creation or the age of the Earth are good examples how knowledge and science can manipulate our minds to question the reliability of the Bible. The teachings found in the public school system often contradict the teachings of God and yet most people send their children there to learn. The Bible commands parents to raise Godly offspring and to teach their children the truths of God at all times (Mal. 2:15, Deut. 6:7). How can this be accomplished if children are being

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