What Is an Idiot?
From childhood, we have been taught the importance of manners. We have been taught that we should not say certain things, do certain things, etc. because they are rude, hurt people’s feelings, and otherwise cause problems. One name we have most likely been taught not to call other people is an “idiot.” I am certainly not advocating that we start now either! What exactly is an idiot? Is it simply someone who we do not like or who does something we do not like, or is there more to it than that? Well, yes indeed there is!
The word “idiot” comes into the English language from the Greek word “idios.” “Idios” means “one’s own; private;” or “peculiar to oneself.” To fit the true definition of the word an idiot is someone who is concerned only with his/her own private affairs; someone who lives in their own world; someone who is private and will not let others inside. The true definition shows how the word has often been misused and, most certainly, overused!
Various sects and/or cult groups which close themselves off from society, as well as extremely withdrawn or isolated people, fit the definition. The word “idiot” is thrown around today frivolously and often when it is used it is used out of context and not in accordance with its real meaning.
The church has two responsibilities in light of this word. First of all, the church should never be withdrawn and closed off from the world around it. It should never be like the famous 21 Club in New York where knowing a secret password was the only way to get inside! It should have its doors wide open for lost sinners to come in and hear the message of the Gospel! The church’s second responsibility is to recognize that indeed our society is living in its own world of sorts. That world is a strange one. It is a world where people feel relatively secure when, in fact, they are not. The church must reach out lovingly to these people who are exactly like us, except for the grace of God.
I know it sounds strange, even funny, but in all actuality the church should be a haven for idiots! That is speaking of those who have tried it their own way and foolishly keep on trying but fail. Does it sound like anyone you know? It sounds a lot like people I know, especially me! According to the Bible, there is “none that are righteous, not even one!” There are “none that seek after God!” What are people seeking instead of God? The answer is their own private things/affairs. An idiot is one who sees no need for God in his/her life. One who keeps on doing things his/her own way. We the church are called upon to show them there is a better way. Let us be diligent to show them!
In Christ,
Pastor Allen Raynor