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What role do feelings have in religion?


Introduction. The question is a good one.  Let us briefly explore the role of feelings or emotions from a biblical perspective.

Feelings are a vital, necessary part of our relationship with our God.  Emotions include such feelings as love.  We are to totally love God, Jesus said (Matt. 22: 37).  We are to love our neighbors (Matt. 22: 39).  Hate is an emotion.  We are taught to hate certain things (Ps. 119: 104, Rom. 12: 9).  The Lord hates false doctrine (Rev. 2: 14-15).  Fear is also an emotion.  We are to fear or reverence God (Heb. 12: 28).  In short, we must obey God "from the heart" (Rom. 6: 17-18).

Feelings can be misleading.  Beloved, feelings become very dangerous when we "go by our feelings" instead of fact.   Saul of Tarsus "thought within himself" that he should do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth (Acts 26: 9).  Feelings are not meant to be authoritative.  Listen to the wise man: "He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered" (Prov. 28: 26).

Religion which is without true feelings is vain (Mk. 7: 6).  However, religion which uses feelings as authority is in serious trouble.   Allow me to ask a personal question: Why do you believe as you do?  Is it because you "feel it is right" or because "you have book, chapter, and verse"?  True religion incorporates feelings and a recognition of correct external authority.  Observe John's statement, "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous" (1 John 5:3).   True, biblical feelings (love) help us to acknowledge external authority - God's commandments.


Conclusion. Indeed, the role of feelings in true religion is indispensable.  But, remember, there is no conflict between true emotions and God's authority, his word!
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