As dictionaries are updated annually, important words from history are fading from the forefront. Instead, slang, tech terms and pop culture is redefining societies vocabulary. One of these obsolete words is teetotalism, a stringent form of following the rules. Islam or Muslims is one of the few faiths which practice teetotalism in adherence to the 5 pillars.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest,” Matthew 11:28.
In his classic book Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis addresses teetotalism in a chapter called The Cardinal Virtues, values that anyone can possess. Lewis suggests that initially, teetotalism was a form of temperance, going the right distance and no further. Like anything in life, context, time and understanding alter the meaning of words. Thus, teetotalism in the context of religion is merely knowing the boundaries between the right and wrong and failing to cross over this line.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls, Matthew 11:29.
However, when faith is limited to an adherence to rules, meaning can be lost like Pharisees who strayed from God’s commands. Rather, Jesus doesn’t care what you wear to church on Sunday; only that you come as you are, ditching the facade the fake put on. Once souls reach the understanding that you can’t do it on your own, Romans 6:23, spiritual hunger is conceived. Free will enables hearts to wait until they are ready. When this day arrives, believers won’t have to rely on teetotalism anymore. Instead, a desire for biblical truth will prompt individuals to pray, read the Bible and worship the Lord 7 days a week.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 