Have you upgraded to the latest iOS operating system?
I’m an Apple user, but imagine Android users go through a similar process.
Apple recently introduced iOS 17, which brings significant updates to Phone, Messages, and FaceTime, offering new ways to express yourself during communication.
Currently, I’m using version 16.6.1, but I need to go through the process of updating to version 17. I thought my phone would do that automatically; apparently not.
Why all the frequent updates? It’s like after I update, then there is already a new one on the horizon.
Actually, the updates are invaluable.
They address security vulnerabilities. As technology advances, new threats and vulnerabilities emerge. Regular updates are released to patch these holes, protect user data, and ensure a more secure operating system overall.
Updates also focus on enhancing the user experience. They bring improvements to existing apps, redesigned interfaces, and performance optimizations. This keeps Apple competitive, offering new capabilities and keeping users engaged with their devices.
Apple and Android didn’t create an interface and then declare it completely finished. They continue to learn and evolve as everything around them changes.
Now, let’s consider why people often react strongly when someone’s understanding of scripture evolves and changes. Why does it become “blasphemy” or “heresy” instead of an opportunity for deeper understanding and sharing of one’s connection with God?
Imagine what would happen if you were still using iOS 3.1.5. Your phone wouldn’t function at all. Nothing would happen.
Similarly, since the creation of scripture, humanity has developed entirely new fields of science. Let me give you a brief overview:
Astronomy: The Babylonians and Egyptians studied celestial objects as early as 3000 BCE, but our modern understanding of astronomy began in the 17th century.
Biology: Charles Darwin and Carl Linnaeus introduced us to the field of biology in the 17th and 18th centuries. Since then, our knowledge has expanded tremendously, with advancements in molecular biology, for example.
Physics: Although ancient Greece dabbled in physics, our understanding of it traces back to the 17th century with the works of Isaac Newton and Galileo Galilei.
When the Israelites crossed the Red Sea during their escape from captivity, they didn’t know about protons, neutrons, atoms, or molecules. They knew they had a presence, a deity named Yahweh, who would not abandon them.
Their leaders and subsequent generations documented their journey and their understanding of this deity. Eventually, these writings and more became “The Bible.”
It is a beautiful depiction and representation of the nature of God, and it becomes even more beautiful when we understand it for what it truly is. It would be beneficial to all of humanity if we don’t get stuck in Faith 1.0.
Jesus = 1.0, yes! But faith . . . hopefully that iOS never stops evolving.
I’m excited to embark on this journey together as we uncover the beautiful power and meaning of the Bible.
Grace and Peace,
Andrea