Biblical Trail Mix

Jim Gossweiler   -  

At first glance, comparing the Bible and trail mix may seem like an odd pairing. However, upon further inspection, there are a number of interesting similarities and differences between the two. While trail mix is a popular snack food that can be customized to individual preferences, the Bible is a sacred text that presents a cohesive worldview and message that cannot be selectively interpreted or ignored.

One of the key similarities between trail mix and the Bible is that they both contain a variety of different elements. In the case of trail mix, this might include nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and chocolate chips. In the case of the Bible, there are numerous books and passages that contain different themes, stories, and messages. Just as with trail mix, the Bible offers a diverse array of options for the reader.

However, there is an important difference between the two. While trail mix allows you to pick and choose what you want to eat, the Bible is not something that you can simply pick and choose from. The Bible is a cohesive, interconnected document that presents a particular worldview and message. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, it says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” This verse emphasizes the importance of taking the Bible as a complete document, rather than just cherry-picking certain passages.

Similarly, in Deuteronomy 4:2, it says, “You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God that I command you.” This verse makes it clear that the Bible is not something that we can simply edit or selectively interpret to suit our own purposes. Instead, it is a sacred text that must be respected and adhered to in its entirety.

In theological terms, this concept is known as the doctrine of biblical inerrancy. This doctrine asserts that the Bible is without error or contradiction, and that it is the inspired and authoritative Word of God. This means that we cannot simply pick and choose which parts of the Bible we want to follow or interpret in our own way.

In contrast, trail mix is a passive experience that can be customized to individual preferences. We may enjoy it for a moment, but it does not challenge us or change us in any meaningful way. Instead, it is a temporary source of sustenance that we can quickly forget about once we’ve consumed it.

Another important point of difference between the Bible and trail mix is that the Bible is not something that we can simply consume and forget about. Unlike trail mix, which we can eat quickly and move on from, the Bible requires careful study and reflection. As Hebrews 4:12 puts it, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

This verse emphasizes the dynamic, transformative power of the Bible, which can penetrate to the very core of our being and challenge us to grow and change. Theologians refer to this process as sanctification, which is the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ. It involves the study of scripture, prayer, and submission to the will of God.

In contrast, trail mix is a passive experience that does not require any effort on our part. While we may enjoy the taste of trail mix, it does not challenge us or change us in any meaningful way.

Ultimately, the comparison between the Bible and trail mix serves to highlight some important truths about the nature of the Bible and our relationship to it. Unlike trail mix, which we can pick and choose from, the Bible demands that we approach it with reverence, humility, and a willingness to submit to its teachings. It is a living and active document that has the power to transform our hearts and minds, leading us into deeper relationship with God and others.

As Christ followers, we are called to approach the Bible with an open mind and heart, recognizing that it contains the very words of God. In 2 Peter 1:20-21, it says, “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

This passage emphasizes the divine inspiration and authority of the Bible, reminding us that it is not a product of human invention or imagination, but is instead a direct communication from God. As such, we cannot simply pick and choose which parts of the Bible we want to follow or interpret in our own way. Instead, we are called to submit ourselves to its teachings, recognizing that they have the power to transform us from the inside out.

Finally, while the comparison between the Bible and trail mix may seem unconventional, it serves to highlight some important truths about the nature of the Bible and our relationship to it. As Christ followers, we are called to approach the Bible with open hearts and minds, recognizing that it contains the very words of God and has the power to lead us into deeper relationship with Him.

What things in the Bible might you be neglecting?

JG