ELUCIDATION

I Was Just Thinking About – ELUCIDATION.

The whole idea of elucidation is for one to share in a plain manner that will enable others to have a clear understanding of a subject or matter being discussed. The definition is: “Explanation that makes something clear; clarification.” Synonyms include: “illumination, interpretation, explication.” By way of illustration, if the subject is the Book of Galatians, it appears that the simple contrasts being drawn are “having begun in the Spirit are you now being made perfect in the flesh” (Galatians 3:3). Paul is contesting the narrative and emphasis of legalism and the requirement of circumcision. He is also leading to the conclusion of Galatians 5:16, “Walk by the enablement of the Spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” He then goes on to describe the differences between the desires of the flesh and the control of the Spirit in terms of one’s life choices in Galatians 5:17-25.

That which triggered my thoughts in this regard was a devotional I read this morning on how Christ fulfills His promise to Abraham. The opening paragraph regarding Galatians 3:16 is: New Testament scholar_______ points out that Galatians employs three main forms of rhetoric recognized by ancient writers. One is epideictic, which “seeks to persuade people to reaffirm a particular view in the present.” Another is deliberative, which “seeks to persuade people to take action.” The third is forensic, which “seeks to persuade people about a past event.” Today’s passage is the forensic argument Paul used to persuade the Galatian believers that the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham is Christ Himself. The gospel, the good news of redemption in Christ, is in a very real sense the actual person of Christ. Our salvation is the Savior!”

While I appreciate the scholarship referenced and the intention of it, I can sense how an average person might respond in one of two ways: (a) either respond with “Huh?” or (b) just close the devotional because it is too erudite and/or scholastic. In actuality, the reference to the scholar’s concepts adds little or nothing to the applications of the devotional.

In our communication and conversations, one should be guided by at least three Biblical principles: 

(1) Is it true? Exodus 20:16, “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.” 

(2) Is it kind? Titus 3:2, “Speak evil of no one…avoid quarreling…be gentle…show perfect courtesy toward all people.”  

(3) Is it necessary? James 1:19, “Let every person be quick to hear and slow to speak.” 

There are several other factors such as not reacting or responding with anger, bitterness, wrath, evil speaking or malice (ill will or the desire to harm another) (Ephesians 4:30). While we basically agree with these premises, we need to exercise personal discipline so that we make every effort to apply these truths at all times in our personal lives.

Prayerfully – consider these things with me.