Some friends of mine (actually former students) have been discussing the implications of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20)in regard to how we spend our time. Specifically, their debate regards the large amount of time they spend reading and discussing theology. Is that an appropriate activity, they ask, in light of the imperatives of the Great Commission?
Since one of the two imperative verbs in this passage is "teach," I would contend that it matters terrifically that you teach the right stuff. And therefore, it's important to be knowledgeable (thanks to books) and articulate (helped by debate). So far, so good.
The other imperative verb is "go." Since most of the world is either "down and out" or "up and out," I don't see how we can avoid folks who need the gospel. But we do have to go with our eyes and hearts open to see and feel the needs of the world around us. It's usually sin that hurts us there, not having spent too much time in books. It makes me think of Mark 1:15, "repent...and believe the gospel."
It's simply "both-and," not "either-or."
