Ep. 53 || Discerning Truth in a World Full of Mom Advice
With nearly-unlimited resources for motherhood, it can be difficult to figure out what's helpful and what subtly distracts from our primary mission as moms. Even in the Christian resources, there are great nuggets of truth, stirred together with potentially dangerous theology. How can we safely get the help we need for motherhood without deviating from the path of truth? In this episode, Emily and Laura discuss the common fears and missteps moms face as they navigate resources, and offer gospel-principles for "finding the meat and spitting out the bones". Because ultimately, when we are familiar with biblical truth we can be wise and discerning instead of scared and gullible.
Helpful Questions for Discerning Resources:
Check credentials / endorsements
Who is this person? Were they educated in their field, and if so, where? How are they getting their information and who else endorses it? What is their reputation?
Check agenda
What type of theology are they hoping the reader adopts? Is there an underlying ideology that influences their ideas?
Check associations
Who do they "buddy-up" with? Are they involved in any questionable or unethical organizations, ministries or "tribes"?
Check for the gospel
What is their worldview? Is it gospel-centered or coming from a different perspective completely?
Check for common issues of false teaching
Prosperity gospel
Works-based mentality
Encouraging hope in something / someone other than Christ (lifestyle, relationship, parenting method, finding the "perfect" balance, etc.)
Culturally relative mentality: "whatever seems good to me or others must be right"
More Questions for Testing Resources in Light of the Gospel:
CREATION - Does this person / resource acknowledge God as the creator / sustainer of all things and as sovereign over all things?
FALL - Does this person / resource have the perspective that children aren’t primarily “good” but are sinners in need of a savior?
REDEMPTION - Does this person / resource encourage you or your children to place your hope in something or someone other than Jesus? (a method, a strategy, a lifestyle, etc.)
GREAT COMMISSION - Does this person / resource affirm God’s main purpose for motherhood - that you are to raise your children in the fear / admonition of the Lord (not the world), making disciples of your children, and view the bible as the final authority for truth? Of course that doesn’t cover EVERY problem, but those are some good questions to start with!
Articles & Other Resources:
How to Handle Controversies in the Church - Val Marie Paper
Help! My Friend is Reading A Dangerous Book! (Roundtable discussion video) The Gospel Coalition
You Are What You Read (Audio) - Rosaria Butterfield
True Hope for Moms: Discerning Lies You Hear Online - RM Episode 36
Can Christians Benefit From Books By Non-Believers? - Ask Pastor John
15 Discernment Diagnostics - Kevin DeYoung
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