The normal order of a sentence is 1) subject of an action, 2) action, 3) object of an action. Christians construct many sentences about our religious experiences and perceptions of God and ourselves, but it seems that we often focus on an order that is not the Bible's focus. This is a cause for concern and needs a corrective so that we think better theologically.

Consider the many statements lifted from the Bible that put human beings in the Subject position of sentences.

  • People worship God.

  • I trust God.

  • I follow Jesus.

  • We take up our cross.

  • Christians resist the devil.

  • People serve others.

  • We glorify God and we extend his kingdom.

  • We pray, study, meditate, listen, and give ourselves to God in various ways.

  • I need to work on my relationship with God. (This is what 80% of students tell me.)

All these statements are connected to biblical passages and normal to Christian discourse. I wonder what proportion they fill up in our talk and thought compared to statements that put God in the Subject position, with human beings in the Object position, such as these.

  • He made them male and female.

  • God saves us.

  • He justified us.

  • He loved me and gave himself for me.

  • God guides his people.

  • God predestined us in Christ.

  • [Jesus speaking] I will send the Spirit to you.

  • I am sending you.

  • He will give you what you are to say.

  • He caused us to be born again.</