Can we ignore a tradition, which is passed on to us from generation to generation? Does tradition have choices? Why does one particular tradition have no option? And what is that tradition?
I came across the root word for “tradition,” as it is derived from Latin as to hand over, transmit, or give for safekeeping. As per Webster’s dictionary definition, it is “the handing down orally of stories, beliefs, customs, etc. from generation to generation.”
Yes, in traditions there are many good and bad customs beliefs, or behaviors passed down to us since the creation of the first man (Adam) and woman (Eve). However, within a given tradition we have the choice to pick either good or bad behavior or belief.
One good choice we have from the tradition is the belief in God of the Bible.” Apostle Paul, for instance, states “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been give fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority (Col 2:8-10 NIV).”
In my opinion, the best one to choose is what the Apostle Paul indicated. Traditionally, in my family, this belief in God of the Bible was passed on to our generation by none other than early 18th-century country preacher John Wesley, the founder of Methodism.
Albert Outler, one of the scholars theorized that Wesley used four different sources in coming to theological conclusions, that is, Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience, respectively.
Outler states that Wesley insisted that Scripture is the first authority and contains the only measure whereby our truth is tested. As per Outler, Wesley believed that the living core of the Christian faith was revealed in Scripture, illumined by tradition, vivified in personal experience, and confirmed by reason.
For me, there is no other option to choose than to keep up the same tradition of belief and trust in living God, which was passed on by John Wesley. Therefore, I thank and admire him. How about you? Any thoughts please share it. Appreciated!
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