Tag Archives: Are you smarter than a 5th grader

Are You Smarter Than a Pharisee?

Producer Mark Burnett teamed up with host Jeff Foxworthy in 2007 for the game show which challenged adults through the knowledge of kids.  Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader began on Fox and is now in syndication.  Like the classic Jeopardy, this entertaining show allowed viewers to see if they are dumber or smarter than the average 5th grade student.

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.  “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” – John 3:3-4

If television existed at the turn of the first century, perhaps Are You Smarter Than a Pharisee would have a caught on.  The first contestant approached Jesus at night, afraid of what his friends might think if seen interacting with Jesus.  Thus, in the cover of darkness, Jesus introduces Nicodemus to the concept of becoming born again.  Similar to the early rounds in Foxworthy’s show, the first few questions are suppose to be softballs.  Unfortunately, Nicodemus over thought this one, responding like a pre-schooler.

No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions, Matthew 22:46.

Shortly before Good Friday, religious leaders attempted to trick Jesus, hoping to catch him contradicting one of God’s laws.  Thus, one by one, shrewd individuals threw out brain teasers for Jesus to answer.  To their surprise, Jesus made quick work of various theoretical situations.  Finally, his opponents gave up, walking away in disappointment.  Unfortunately, few people understand the concept of wise, 1 Corinthians 2:5.  If this blog finds you like Nicodemus over analyzing life, may faith in Christ put you over the top so you will become smarter than a Pharisee.

by Jay Mankus

How Wise Are You?

Are you smarter than a 5th grader?  Or does your IQ surpass genius’ of the past?  The brother of Jesus breaks down wisdom into 2 categories, from above and below, James 3:13-18.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1msHJYQhHfo

The first type sows seeds of humility, as wisdom is displayed without fanfare.  If you are full of knowledge, you don’t have to fake it by trying to impress others.  Rather, understanding is demonstrated by a life filled with love, joy and peace.

On the other side of the spectrum, lies a mindset fueled by harboring bitterness.  In the process, selfish ambition leads individuals to develop a blind spot referred to as diabolical pride by C.S. Lewis.  When this cancer goes undetected, hearts change while minds swell to the size of melons.  If neglected, souls will begin to follow the wisdom of the Devil.

For some, the cause is lost, similar to addicts who are unable to grasp the severity of their situation.  Yet, there is hope for those who hit rock bottom, coming to their senses like prodigal children of the past.  When the timing is right, embrace the words of James 3:17-18 so that the wisdom of heaven will purge traces of darkness from your soul.  Flee from disorder in life by clinging to the fruits of the spirit, Galatians 5:22-23, displaying wisdom to a foolish world.

by Jay Mankus