Zooming in and out

The young generation takes zoom lenses for granted. For those of us who can still remember the limitations of the old box cameras, the zoom lens remains a great forward step in camera development.

Suddenly, one could zoom in on people, wildlife, sports, buildings, planes, boats and mountains. And to show something’s place in the big picture, one could zoom out for a wide view. The stronger the zoom is, the greater the need becomes for a stabilizing tripod or rock, ensuring the picture remains sharp.

In meaningful Bible study, we also must zoom in and out to understand detail in the big picture. Jumping only from text to text is like moving with a strong zoom from spot to spot on a cheetah.

Showing the whole animal in its habitat is like a wide view in Bible study. When, why, by whom and to whom was a Bible book written? What are the main ideas or sections of the book? Why is the book important for our time? Bible study aids give answers to these vital questions.

After a Bible book has been placed in context, then one can study each chapter and verse in their context. From wide angle one moves to telephoto and close-up.

However, one needs a stabilizer for magnifying lenses. Likewise, we need a trustworthy Bible study aid to zoom in from wide angle to detail. Study aids vary from high theology to practical, down-to-earth style. Before buying a study aid, discuss it with an expert.

Many digital cameras have a major weakness: they lack a viewfinder. It is easier to steady a camera against one’s brow than with outstretched arms 50 cm from the eyes, especially when one uses bifocal eyeglasses. And in bright daylight, the picture on the screen 50 cm away becomes very faint.

Bible study, too, does not work well with the arm’s-length approach. We must allow ourselves, our hearts, to get close to God’s word. Intellectual study alone does not satisfy; we must open our hearts.

Photography should observe ethical rules, such as respecting people’s privacy. Taking recognizable pictures of people without their consent, especially when they are in a vulnerable situation, violates their right to privacy. Posting such pictures on social media is not a prank, but shows a total lack of respect, empathy, humanness and sound judgment.

When paparazzi hunted the late princess Diana relentlessly, they became accomplices to her brutal and untimely death. The devil zooms in on sin, trying to catch people in a vulnerable moment, and exposing them to the world.

God’s goals for humanity are forgiveness and sanctification: “I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more” ( Jer. 31:33-34).

Jacob Van Zyl of Lethbridge is a retired counsellor and the author of several faith-based books.