Bible Quote by Watchman Nee
““The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him. 1 Corinthians 2:14 It has pleased God to say many things which leave room for misunderstanding, and not to explain them. Often in the Bible there seem to be conflicting statements or statements that seem to violate the known facts of life, and it has pleased Him to leave them there. There are many scriptures we cannot clearly explain. Had we been writing, we would have put things far more plainly so that men should have before them all the doctrine in foolproof systematic order. But would they have had the life? The mighty eternal truths of God are half obscured in Scripture so that the natural man may not lay hold of them. God has hidden them from the wise to reveal them to babes, for they are spiritually discerned. His Word is not a study book. It is intended to meet us in the course of our day-to-day walk in the Spirit and to speak to us there. It is designed to give us knowledge that is experimental because related to life. If we are trying through systematic theology to know God, we are absolutely on the wrong road.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Normal Christian Life by Watchman Nee, 1939
Spiritual truths are intentionally veiled in Scripture so that only those with spiritual discernment can grasp them; systematic study cannot replace experiential learning.
In simple terms: Scripture hides truths for spiritual insight.
Key Takeaway
Seek experiential understanding over rigid doctrine.
Themes
spirituality
scripture
discernment
Mood
contemplative
thoughtful
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal devotion
- small group study
- spiritual mentorship
- prayerful reflection
Key Concepts
mystery
faith development
interpretive humility
Questions to Reflect On
- How does one balance study with lived experience?
- What practices foster spiritual discernment?
A Different Perspective
May discourage scholarly inquiry that can also deepen faith.
![“Unless we're very intentional about meditating on these truths [that show God's love], they slip from our thoughts like misty dreams that evaporate in the morning light. That's why Luther said we must take heed then, to embrace...the love and kindness of God...[and to] daily excercise [our] faith…” quote by Elyse Fitzpatrick](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/025/elyse-fitzpatrick-19135_doubt_unless-we-re-very-intentional-about-medi_259795.jpg)
