Devotional by Dr. Tony Nickel

Last September, the Rev. William Barber said during a Democratic National Committee event that Scripture “promote[s] socialism. If someone calls it [Christianity] socialism, then we must compel them to acknowledge that the Bible must then promote socialism,” (from which he drew cheers from the DNC event attendees, including party chairman Tom Perez). “Because Jesus offered free healthcare to everyone and he never charged a leper a co-pay.”

If you are following the political issues of the day, you most likely have heard debates on socialism. Whether or not you agree with this political and economic philosophy, it is important to understand that one must not distort and/or misapply God’s Word as a way of promoting a political or personal agenda.

Errantly using God’s Word is a huge NO-NO with our Lord Jesus Christ. It is vitally important to study and apply God’s Word with integrity and seriousness. In no way should we misuse it to justify a lifestyle, a political position, or a behavior to which we espouse. When God gave us His Word, He didn’t give it so that we could interpret it anyway we see fit. God’s Word does not carry a multiplicity of meanings, nor is it allegorical. He gave us His Holy Scriptures to provide us with absolute truth for redemptive purposes, and to subsequently be conformed into the likeness of Christ. Jesus didn’t come to offer free healthcare. Jesus is not a divine insurance agent. He is Savior and Lord of all.

Here is the accurate truth from God’s Word: Jesus came to offer free eternal salvation (free spiritual healthcare, if you will) to all who would confess their sin, repent, and trust in Him for the forgiveness of their sin. He came to make us spiritually healthy. Some He physically healed, yet most remained untouched by His healing hand. The reality is that we will all die physically one day; however, Jesus heals everyone spiritually who trusts completely in Him.

Keep it real. You don’t have to twist the truth of God to suit you. Allow His Word to penetrate your soul, and your life will be better than you ever imagined.