LEARN TO RECOGNIZE “IF…, THEN …” CHOICES
We have discussed elsewhere how the law teaches us through difficult language (i.e. parables, dark sayings, proverbs and riddles, figures, words of the wise and riddles, dreams, enigmas and difficult problems, figurative language, dreams and visions, shadows, types and patterns, and symbols, signs and allegories) and how the Bible brings correction that leads to righteousness. In this series of pages we will look at “if/then” propositions that are also designed to lead us to righteousness.

“If/then” propositions are statements where God first says “if you will …” and follows with “then I will …”. These propositions are easiest to recognize when they are presented in order with the “if” condition presented first, and the “then” proposition presented second. Sometimes, however, the order is reversed, and may be obscured with other language in between, but with close inspection they will be found to be “if/then” propositions. We should always understand these kinds of statements as promises to everyone in all generations and not dismiss them as warnings meant only for ancient Israelites because we are all vulnerable to the same kinds of temptations to sin (i.e.religion).

To appreciate the weight of these “if/then” statements, it is helpful to think of everything that God says as a law because he is faithful to accomplish whatever he says he will do. Of course God’s statements are easier to accept as promises when the “then I will …” statement confirms that God will do something good, or positive for his people. We must also accept, however, that “if/then “statements are still promises when the predicted (i.e. promised) action is some kind of discipline/punishment that will cause pain and suffering designed to bring religious people to repentance and righteousness. People who count themselves as “children of God” or “sons of God should not be surprised that God will make these kinds of statements because he has said very clearly that he “disciplines those he loves.” Because this promise was made clearly to all generations, including ours, we should expect to receive Godly discipline through Bible study.