Theologica Germanica was originally written around 1350 as a tract. It was modified by Martin Luther in 1516. Its basic aim is that we move our experience and knowledge of God from the "outer person" to the "inner person"
Our world system operates on a collection of punishments and rewards depending on the circumstances. However more in line with last weeks blog, Theologica Germanica suggests that obedience to God's Word is in fact based on a motivation of the heart, an act of love. Unlike the world we are not entirely based on fear of punishments or gaining rewards. There are undoubtedly those aspects present in the Word of God. The question remains what is our primary motivation: reward, fear of punishment or love?
I guess it is totally wrapped up in this scripture:
John 14:23New International Version (NIV)
23 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.
So much of modern thinking is about changing our behaviours and the rest will follow. It might be good to take stock where are we what is motivating us, a thinly veiled religious copy of the world system or a deepening relationship and love of the Father motivating change. This is quite counter cultural thinking, we so often talk about changing from the inside out, but are we really trying to do the reverse? Are we on a journey from the outside in, from external motivation to internal motivation towards living a Godly life. Might it not be as important to examine our motivation then seek change. I have been able to do this with my attitude to gratitude through asking God to change my heart. I am far more grateful than if I had just tried to change my behaviour.
There is a metaphor in this piece of writing that suggests the right eye of your soul looks towards the eternal and the left eye looks to the "things of this world"
The question remains which is your dominant eye? Right or Left?
Until Next week Paul
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