Do We Have An “I” Problem? – Bible study

In the parable of the rich man (Luke 12:16-19), we see that the rich man had a definite I problem. Notice in this text that the personal pronoun I is repeated six times, indicating an attitude of selfishness and covetousness (Luke 12:13-15 – Note the parentheses around each I for emphasis).

And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops? So he said, I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. And I will say to my soul. (Luke 12:17-19).

Do we have an I problem today like those folks had in the first century? Yes, we still have an I problem today. For example, it is interesting to note that the Apple computer corporation has designed and developed various electronic devices and software beginning with the letter I (see encyclopedia article), indicating that these devices are specifically designed for those consumers who just have to have the latest and the greatest Apple I product, so they can show their friends what I purchased in order to stay ahead of the Joneses (virtually impossible to do).

We also have an I problem when we see and hear of brethren (the I like crowd) who desire to have the latest and the greatest denominational innovations, adding to Gods authorized worship pattern or plan as seen in the New Testament (Acts 2:42; Hebrews 13:15; cf. Ephesians 5:19-20; Colossians 3:16-17). Innovations such as instrumental music, hand clapping, foot stomping, praise teams, choirs, and the list goes on and on.

Yes, brethren, we definitely have a I problem in the Lords church. However, there is a heavenly prescribed ointment [eye salve] that will cure this I problem that ointment being the authoritative word of God (Revelation 3:18 – see commentary; cf. Psalm 19:7-8; Colossians 3:17; 1 Corinthians 10:31).

The question is, are we willing to apply this heavenly prescribed ointment [salve] to our eyes in order to clear our spiritual vision (our I problem), thus being able to see Gods will with regard to our worship of Him? (Matthew 13:16; Luke 10:23; cf. John 4:23; Matthew 7:21).

The choice is always ours (Deuteronomy 30:19-20; Joshua 24:14-15).

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