June 18, 2025 • 19 mins
Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-71-the-wisdom-of-truth/
What if the wisest people aren't those with all the answers, but those who've mastered the art of recognizing what they don't know? We dive deep into this counterintuitive wisdom from Chapter 71 of the BFG Handbook, exploring how humility might be the true foundation of understanding.
The core message challenges our cultural addiction to certainty: "To know that you do not know is wisdom. To not know but proclaim that you know is sin." Through this lens, pretending expertise becomes more than just annoying—it's a barrier to growth and a form of self-deception that blocks our path to freedom. The chapter suggests something profound: recognizing our limitations isn't weakness, but the very foundation of wisdom.
Most striking is the handbook's perspective on freedom through honest self-recognition: "When one recognizes sin as sin, one can be free from sin." This honest acknowledgment creates the opportunity for transformation and wholeness rather than condemnation. We explore how Jesus exemplifies this principle, achieving freedom through perfect clarity about righteousness and wrongdoing.
For practical application, we unpack the "Trinitarian MAP" framework—Mindset, Aim, and Practice—that bridges understanding and daily living. This approach provides concrete ways to cultivate wisdom through humility in everyday decisions. Perhaps most compelling are the universal connections we discover, as these principles resonate across Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, suggesting something fundamental about human spiritual seeking.
Whether you're spiritually curious or intellectually skeptical, these ancient wisdom principles offer a refreshing alternative to our polarized discourse. What might change in your relationships, work, and personal growth if you embraced the freedom that comes from saying those three powerful words: "I don't know"?
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Okay, let's unpack this.
Have you ever stopped to thinkthat maybe, just maybe, true
wisdom isn't about having allthe answers, but actually
mastering the art of recognizingwhat you don't know?
Speaker 2 (00:14):
That feels counterintuitive in a world that
often rewards certainty,doesn't it?
Speaker 1 (00:17):
Absolutely.
And that fascinating idea is.
Well, it's the starting pointfor the source material we're
diving into today.
It's chapter 71, the wisdom oftruth, from something called the
BFG handbook.
The source describes itself asa Christian edition of the Tao
Te Ching.
Speaker 2 (00:34):
Right, a Christian, take on the Tao Te Ching, and it
sets out with a pretty specificstated purpose, doesn't it?
Speaker 1 (00:39):
It does.
It says it wants to present thegospel through a new expression
of God's love.
So our mission for this deepdive is to, you know, pull out
the most important nuggets fromthis chapter.
We're going to explore its coremessage about wisdom, sin,
freedom, see how it's appliedwithin this specific Christian
framework that's the restorepart and then look at how this
source suggests these principlesmight actually resonate as
(01:02):
universal truths, which it callsrespond.
That should give you someinteresting insights, hopefully.
Speaker 2 (01:07):
Sounds good, so where do we start?
Speaker 1 (01:09):
The source gives us five key lines that really lay
the foundation.
To know that you do not know iswisdom.
To not know but proclaim thatyou know is sin.
When one recognizes sin as asin, one can be free from sin.
Speaker 2 (01:24):
Interesting Recognition leads to freedom.
Speaker 1 (01:27):
The Son of God is without sin because he
recognizes sin as sin and,finally, that is why he is free
from sin.
Speaker 2 (01:34):
A direct consequence.
Okay, so those are the corelines.
Speaker 1 (01:36):
Exactly Now.
The source immediately goes onto interpret these verses
through its stated Christianlens, focusing on how they work
to restore truth.
Speaker 2 (01:44):
Okay, so unpacking that first line to know that you
do not know is wisdom.
How does the source see thatthrough a Christian viewpoint?
Speaker 1 (01:52):
Well, it really emphasizes humility.
The source points out thatrecognizing our limitations
isn't a weakness at all.
Speaker 2 (01:59):
No, it's actually what points us towards God as
the ultimate source of truewisdom.
Right.
Speaker 1 (02:04):
It even references passages like Matthew 23.
Speaker 2 (02:07):
Where Jesus warns against the religious leaders
who claimed all this knowledgeand authority but lacked genuine
understanding and humility.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
Exactly.
The idea is that trueunderstanding begins with
acknowledging our own ignorance,not pretending we've got it all
figured out.
Speaker 2 (02:22):
Okay, that makes sense.
Then the second line to notknow but proclaim that you know
is sin.
How's that interpreted?
Speaker 1 (02:29):
This is seen as aligning directly with deception
and pride.
Speaker 2 (02:33):
The source highlights this strongly, doesn't it,
linking it to ideas like in 1John 1.8.
Speaker 1 (02:37):
Yeah about deceiving ourselves.
If we claim to be without sin,it frames self-deception,
especially about our ownknowledge or righteousness.
At that crucial first step awayfrom aligning with truth.
Speaker 2 (02:47):
So pretending to know is actually a form of
self-deception.
Speaker 1 (02:51):
That's the argument, and this is where it gets really
interesting with the third line.
Speaker 2 (02:59):
When one recognizes sin as a sin, one can be free
from sin Right because thesource presents this recognition
, not as like a moment ofcondemnation.
Speaker 1 (03:05):
Not at all, but as the actual path to freedom from
its power.
Speaker 2 (03:10):
That's a key point in the source's interpretation.
It echoes passages like Romans6, where Paul talks about being
set free from sin's power.
Speaker 1 (03:16):
Right.
It's by acknowledging sin forwhat it is, you know, a
deviation from God's will, thatopens the door.
Opens the door to repentance,forgiveness and, ultimately,
grace and freedom precisely, andin the final two lines, the
ones pointing to jesus.
The son of god is without sinbecause he recognizes sin as sin
, and that is why he is freefrom sin so here the source
(03:38):
holds up jesus as the ultimateexample.
He was without sin according tothis interpretation precisely
because he had perfect clarityabout what sin was and
completely rejected it.
He was in perfect alignmentwith God's will.
Speaker 2 (03:50):
Yeah, the source references scriptures like 1
Peter 2 and 1 John 3, which talkabout Jesus's sinlessness.
Speaker 1 (03:57):
And passages like Romans 8 explain that this state
of being free from sin's poweris offered through Christ.
Speaker 2 (04:03):
Right.
So his freedom wasn't justautomatic.
It was a direct consequence ofhis perfect recognition and
rejection of sin.
Speaker 1 (04:10):
That freedom then becomes available to those who
follow him.
Speaker 2 (04:13):
Got it.
So, summing up this restorepart, the source uses these
simple lines to highlighthumility, honest recognition of
sin, repentance and the exampleof Christ.
Speaker 1 (04:24):
Yes, as absolutely central to finding wisdom and
freedom.
Within this specific framework,it really sets the stage for
how these ideas can be lived outwhich I guess brings us to the
next section, the practicalapplication exactly.
The source presents somethingcalled the trinitarian map as
the method for renewal,practical ways to apply these
principles in your life.
Speaker 2 (04:42):
The Trinitarian MAP right.
So MAP stands for Mindset, aimand Practice.
Speaker 1 (04:47):
That's it.
It's presented as a frameworkwhere God's love shapes your
mindset, trust in the Sondirects your aim and faith in
the Holy Spirit guides yourpractice.
Speaker 2 (04:56):
A map for personal transformation, basically using
the wisdom from chapter 71.
Right.
Speaker 1 (05:00):
So let's take that first principle we talked about
To know that you do not know iswisdom.
How does the source suggest weapply this humility across the
MAP?
Speaker 2 (05:10):
Well, it starts with your mindset.
The source says you shouldapproach life with a spirit of
humility, being truly honestabout your limitations.
Speaker 1 (05:18):
So wisdom comes from recognizing ignorance, not
feeling like you have all theanswers.
Speaker 2 (05:23):
Exactly, it's about staying teachable, remaining
open.
The source connects thismindset to drawing true wisdom
from God.
Speaker 1 (05:30):
Makes sense Referencing things like Proverbs
3 and James 1.
Speaker 2 (05:33):
Right.
So the practical takeaway foryour mindset is just being
willing to admit you don't knowand being open to learning.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
Okay, and how does that shape your aim?
What should you be striving for?
Speaker 2 (05:43):
Your aim should be to actively cultivate humility,
really work on acknowledgingyour limitations and lack of
knowledge.
Speaker 1 (05:50):
The source sees this as vital for spiritual growth.
Speaker 2 (05:53):
Yeah, keeps you teachable, reminds you to depend
on God's wisdom, not just yourown understanding.
Speaker 1 (05:58):
So the aim is to grow in this humility.
Speaker 2 (06:00):
Yes, the application is about remaining open-minded,
not being afraid to admit youdon't have all the answers, and
actively seeking advice when youneed it.
A humble heart.
Speaker 1 (06:10):
And finally the practice.
How do you live this out daily?
Speaker 2 (06:14):
It's about regularly putting that humility into
action.
Acknowledge your finiteness.
You know that you're limited.
Speaker 1 (06:21):
And that opens you up to God's wisdom, and learning
from others Keeps you grounded.
Speaker 2 (06:25):
That's the idea.
Practically, this means thingslike listening more than you
talk, seeking counsel, maybethrough prayer or from mentors.
Speaker 1 (06:32):
Or even just being willing to research something
you don't know instead ofpretending.
Speaker 2 (06:36):
Right.
It shows a genuine willingnessto grow.
Speaker 1 (06:38):
All right, let's move to the second principle.
To not know but proclaim thatyou know is sin.
How does the MAP guide us here?
Speaker 2 (06:44):
Okay for your mindset .
The source says you need toactively reject pride and
arrogance, especially when itcomes to what you claim to know.
Speaker 1 (06:52):
Recognize the real danger of claiming expertise
without actually understanding.
Speaker 2 (06:57):
It's about self-awareness, isn't it?
Recognizing that claiming falseknowledge is deception.
Speaker 1 (07:02):
Right.
The source explains thismindset prevents spiritual pride
and fosters honesty.
It references 1 Corinthians 8and Proverbs 12.
Speaker 2 (07:10):
So the practical mindset shift is to avoid
speaking as if you knoweverything.
Cultivate transparency.
Speaker 1 (07:15):
Exactly which leads to the aim.
What should our aim be here?
Speaker 2 (07:19):
Your aim should be maintaining honesty and
integrity in your communication,Specifically avoiding that
temptation to pretend you knowmore than you do.
Speaker 1 (07:28):
Because the source stresses that overstating your
knowledge hinders growth anddeceives others.
Speaker 2 (07:33):
Right the application is resist trying to impress
people with false knowledge.
Aim for transparency, bewilling to admit when you don't
know and seekives others.
Right the application is resisttrying to impress people with
false knowledge.
Aim for transparency, bewilling to admit when you don't
know and seek guidance instead.
Speaker 1 (07:42):
This builds stronger relationships based on trust,
presumably.
Speaker 2 (07:46):
That's the connection it makes and in terms of daily
practice.
Speaker 1 (07:49):
Practice honesty in your words and actions
consistently.
Make it a habit to avoidpretending.
Be transparent about yourunderstanding.
Speaker 2 (07:57):
Yeah, the source says this practice fosters trust and
authenticity, avoids that prideand deception trap and makes
room for God to work.
Speaker 1 (08:05):
So practically avoid overstating, admit gaps, seek
help strengthens relationshipsand your own growth, exactly
Okay.
Let's tackle the thirdprinciple.
When one recognizes sin as asin, one can be free from sin.
This feels like a reallycrucial point.
How does the MAP apply?
Speaker 2 (08:22):
It begins with your mindset.
The source encourages adoptinga mindset of well self-awareness
and responsibility.
Speaker 1 (08:29):
So, instead of rationalizing or minimizing sin,
you acknowledge it for what itis.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
Yes, facing sin honestly is presented as the
essential first step towardfreedom.
Speaker 1 (08:37):
It's about seeing sin not just as condemnation but an
opportunity for something else.
Speaker 2 (08:42):
Exactly the source explains that this recognition
and confession opens the door totransformation, redemption,
wholeness, not just judgment.
Speaker 1 (08:48):
It points to scriptures like 1 John, 1.9 and
Psalm 51.
Speaker 2 (08:51):
Right.
The practical mindset shift ispracticing self-reflection and
facing sin with humility.
That clears the path for growthand freedom.
Speaker 1 (08:59):
Okay, so what should our aim be then, based on that
mindset?
Speaker 2 (09:02):
Your aim should be specifically focused on
recognizing sin in your own lifeand actively addressing it.
Speaker 1 (09:08):
Which means confronting it through
repentance and intentionallyrealigning your life with God's
will.
Speaker 2 (09:14):
That's it, the source frames, recognizing sin as an
offense against God.
Freedom begins with thisawareness and a conscious
decision to confront the sin,not justify or ignore it.
Speaker 1 (09:25):
So the application is regular evaluation of thoughts,
actions, attitudes.
Speaker 2 (09:30):
Confessing and repenting when you fall short,
and allowing grace to work.
Restoration.
Speaker 1 (09:35):
And for practice.
How do we live this daily?
Speaker 2 (09:38):
You need to cultivate consistent self-awareness.
Regularly examine your thoughts, words, actions.
See where you might be fallingshort.
Speaker 1 (09:45):
And then practice repentance and seeking
forgiveness.
Speaker 2 (09:48):
Yes, the source says recognizing sin is crucial for
living out your purpose.
Acknowledging deviations andtaking steps to repent is the
process that brings freedom.
Speaker 1 (09:56):
So this involves regular self-reflection, maybe
through prayer or journaling.
Speaker 2 (10:05):
Could be Acknowledging shortcomings,
asking forgiveness and activelychanging behaviors to live with
integrity and ongoing repentance.
Speaker 1 (10:08):
All right, let's look at the fourth principle, the
one pointing to Jesus.
The Son of God is without sinbecause he recognizes sin as sin
.
How does the MAP help us applythis idea of Christlike purity?
Speaker 2 (10:20):
In terms of mindset, the source encourages focusing
on Jesus's example.
His sinlessness is presented asa result of his perfect
recognition and rejection of sin.
Speaker 1 (10:30):
So the mindset is to strive towards that same clarity
, seeing sin for exactly what itis and aiming for Christ-like
purity.
Speaker 2 (10:38):
It's not just about avoiding sin, but understanding
why you should avoid it andseeing it as a conscious choice
for righteousness modeled byChrist.
Speaker 1 (10:46):
Right Referencing Hebrews 4 and 1 Peter 2.
Speaker 2 (10:48):
The application is cultivating a deep understanding
of God's standards, studyingJesus' life, applying His
teachings and actively imitatinghis purity in your own life.
Speaker 1 (10:57):
Okay, so what should our aim be in light of this
example?
Speaker 2 (11:01):
Your aim should be to grow in purity and
righteousness, actively seekingto live like Christ by rejecting
sin.
Speaker 1 (11:06):
Jesus as the model, again striving to be holy and
pure, aligning with God's will.
That's part of becoming morelike him.
Speaker 2 (11:13):
That's how the source presents it.
The application is makingconscious choices based on God's
word, striving for purity inthoughts and actions.
Living in that alignment leadsto growth and peace.
It's framed as a daily effortTo live a pure and righteous
life by aligning your actionsand thoughts with God's word and
actively rejecting sin when itarises.
Speaker 1 (11:32):
Jesus' sinlessness is the model.
Speaker 2 (11:35):
Practicing purity aligns you with god's holiness
and it's seen as essential forliving out your purpose serving
others by reflecting christ.
So yeah, it means makingintentional choices every day to
resist temptation, living in away that honors god, even when
those decisions are tough okay.
Speaker 1 (11:51):
Finally, the fifth principle.
That is why he is free from sin.
How does the map apply thisidea of living in freedom
through Christ?
Speaker 2 (11:59):
Your mindset should be one of embracing the freedom
you have in Christ.
The source emphasizes thatbecause Jesus was sinless, he
overcame sin and through him youcan live free.
Speaker 1 (12:08):
And this freedom isn't just a future promise,
it's for here and now.
Speaker 2 (12:12):
That's the point.
It's about recognizing you'renot enslaved to sin's power
anymore.
The practical mindset is livingin that freedom, by accepting
forgiveness, allowing the HolySpirit to empower you,
recognizing your identity isn'tdefined by past sin, and walking
in victory.
Speaker 1 (12:29):
So what's the aim here?
Speaker 2 (12:30):
Your aim should be to keep your focus firmly on the
freedom from sin that Christoffers, living in the victory he
secured.
Speaker 1 (12:37):
Through His life, death, resurrection.
Speaker 2 (12:40):
The source explains that by His grace you can live
free, not necessarily perfectly,but free from the bondage of
sin because of His finished work.
Speaker 1 (12:48):
So the application is intentionally focusing on
living out that freedom,resisting being bound by past
mistakes.
Speaker 2 (12:55):
Yes, and relying on the Holy Spirit's strength,
reflecting Christ's love andgrace to others.
Speaker 1 (13:00):
And how does that translate into daily practice?
Speaker 2 (13:02):
Your daily practice involves living in that freedom
that comes through Christ'svictory.
This means actively rejectingsin's power over you and being
empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Speaker 1 (13:12):
Because the source is clear.
Christ freed you from both thepenalty and the power of sin.
Speaker 2 (13:17):
Right.
So practicing this freedommeans actively resisting
temptations, setting boundaries,making decisions that align
with God's values.
It's about choosingrighteousness because you are
free to, not because you have to.
Speaker 1 (13:29):
So the renewal section, this Trinitarian MAP,
it really provides a practicalframework, takes those profound
ideas from chapter 71, and givesyou concrete ways to cultivate
a new mindset, set your aims andengage in daily practices.
Speaker 2 (13:43):
It truly bridges that gap from understanding to
action, trying to make ittangible.
Speaker 1 (13:48):
Exactly, and the source then broadens the view
even further in the finalsection.
It suggests that living in thisstate of renewal empowers you
to respond to the world.
Speaker 2 (13:57):
Respond how.
Speaker 1 (13:59):
Well, it encourages dialogue by showing how these
core principles it's drawingfrom the BFG handbook are
actually presented as sharedtruths that resonate across many
different cultural andreligious boundaries.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
Okay, so it's looking for universal connections.
That's a powerful claim.
Let's look at some of theparallels the source presents.
Speaker 1 (14:15):
Okay, based on that first line, to know that you do
not know is wisdom.
The source identifies auniversal truth of humility and
knowledge.
Speaker 2 (14:22):
And what parallels does it draw a universal truth
of humility and knowledge?
And what?
Speaker 1 (14:24):
parallels does it draw?
It lists Christianity, IslamQuran 2.269,.
Buddhism, the Dhammapada, andHinduism, Bhagavad Gita, 4.34.
The source argues this unitesus because virtually all wisdom
traditions value humblyacknowledging the limits of our
knowledge.
Speaker 2 (14:39):
So it frames this as a universal human need to seek
wisdom, promoting openness,teachability.
Speaker 1 (14:45):
Exactly Humility before the divine and before
other people.
Speaker 2 (14:48):
And the real world application of this shared idea.
Speaker 1 (14:52):
It fosters collaboration, learning, growth.
When you're open about what youdon't know, you ask questions,
You're open to others' wisdomLeads to better decisions.
Stronger connections Makessense.
Speaker 2 (15:01):
Okay, then, from to not know but proclaim that you
know is sin, we see theuniversal truth of honesty and
integrity.
Speaker 1 (15:08):
Right.
Parallels listed includeChristianity, Proverbs 12.22,.
Islam, Quran, Buddhism, rightspeech and the precepts, and
Hinduism, Bhagavad Gita 16.3.
Speaker 2 (15:17):
And the argument is that honestly and integrity are
foundational values everywhere.
Speaker 1 (15:21):
Pretty much.
Speaker 2 (15:22):
Claiming false knowledge isn't just an error
it's universally seen as a moralfailing that erodes trust.
So being truthful about what weknow or don't know is key for
building trust in any society.
Speaker 1 (15:34):
Absolutely the real world applications at practicing
honesty builds trust andintegrity in all areas.
Being truthful leads to clearercommunication, avoids
misunderstand misunderstandingsand creates space for genuine
learning okay.
Speaker 2 (15:48):
When one recognizes sin as a sin, one can be free
from sin.
Comes the universal truth ofrecognizing and repenting from
sin or wrongdoing christianityfirst john 1.9.
Islam quran 39.53 buddhismlinking suffering to wrong
actions and the four nobletruths.
Speaker 1 (16:05):
And Hinduism, Bhagavad Gita 9.3031.
The source says this unites usbecause basically every major
spiritual path recognizeswrongdoing or moral error.
Speaker 2 (16:15):
And the necessity of acknowledging and correcting it.
It highlights this as auniversal process of spiritual
healing and transformation.
Speaker 1 (16:21):
Right.
Acknowledging faults isn'tunique.
It's a fundamental human steptoward growth across cultures.
Speaker 2 (16:26):
And the real world impact.
Speaker 1 (16:27):
Confessing, taking responsibility, striving to
correct it leads to personalhealing, spiritual growth and
contributes to a more just andcompassionate world.
It's about accountability andrestoration.
Speaker 2 (16:39):
Makes sense Okay.
From the son of God is withoutsin, because he recognizes sin
as sin, we get the universaltruth of purity and
righteousness.
Speaker 1 (16:48):
Parallels here include Christianity 1 Peter
2.22,.
Islam, Quran, 33.21, citingMuhammad as an example.
Speaker 2 (16:56):
Buddhism's Eightfold Path.
Hinduism's Bhagavad Gita, 16.
Right.
Speaker 1 (17:00):
The source suggests the pursuit of purity, moral
clarity and righteous living isa common thread.
Speaker 2 (17:05):
Aspiring to moral and spiritual purity leads to
alignment with divine principles, regardless of the specific
tradition, following virtuousexamples, striving for right
living that unites seekers.
Speaker 1 (17:15):
That's the idea presented.
The real world application isliving with integrity, where
your actions reflect your valueshonesty, respect, high moral
character and how thatpositively influences others.
Okay, character and how thatpositively influences others.
Speaker 2 (17:26):
Okay, finally, based on that is why he is free from
sin.
There is the universal truth ofliving in freedom from sin or
suffering, through divine graceor liberation.
Speaker 1 (17:34):
And the source finds parallels in Christianity John
8.36,.
Islam Quran 2.221,.
Buddhism achieving nirvana, andHinduism Bhagavad Gita, 18.66.
Speaker 2 (17:47):
This resonates universally because the desire
for freedom from sin, suffering,karma, worldly desires seems
like a fundamental human longing.
Speaker 1 (17:56):
Exactly Each path the source suggests offers a way to
this freedom, whether throughgrace, repentance, right living
or other practices.
It speaks to a deep shareddesire for growth, repentance,
right living or other practices.
It speaks to a deep shareddesire for growth, peace and
divine connection.
Speaker 2 (18:09):
And the practical way this plays out in the world.
Speaker 1 (18:11):
It's about living a life reflecting that inner
freedom from negative influences, relying on whatever your
tradition identifies as thesource of empowerment or
liberation.
Speaker 2 (18:19):
Making daily choices according to spiritual
principles, not out ofobligation but out of freedom.
Speaker 1 (18:24):
Right.
So this response section reallyemphasizes that the core
principles from chapter 71,while interpreted through a
specific lens earlier.
Speaker 2 (18:32):
They echo deeply across many different spiritual
paths.
They point to shared humanaspirations for wisdom,
integrity, repentance, purityand, ultimately, liberation.
Speaker 1 (18:41):
It's quite striking to see those connections laid
out like that.
Speaker 2 (18:44):
It really does suggest a kind of common
language for some fundamentalspiritual truths, doesn't it?
Speaker 1 (18:49):
It does Well.
We've certainly taken a deepdive into chapter 71 of the BFG
handbook today.
We started with itsfoundational lines on wisdom,
sin and freedom, explored itsChristian interpretation,
focused on restoring truth.
Speaker 2 (19:01):
Then looked at its practical application for
renewal through that TrinitarianMAP the mindset, aim and
practice.
Speaker 1 (19:08):
And finally saw how the source presents these core
principles as responding touniversal truths that echo
across major world religions.
Maybe some practical insightsfor your own journey toward
wisdom and freedom.
You know, no matter whereyou're starting from, and here's
a provocative thought for youto consider as you go about your
day If the wisdom of knowingwhat you don't know and the
(19:31):
profound freedom found inhonestly recognizing wrongdoing,
if these are indeed universaltruths woven into the very
fabric of human spiritualseeking, what does that imply
about the fundamental path weare all called to walk,
regardless of our specificbeliefs or traditions?
Okay, let's unpack this.
Have you ever stopped to thinkthat maybe, just maybe, true
wisdom isn't about having allthe answers, but actually
mastering the art of recognizingwhat you don't know?
Speaker 2 (00:14):
That feels counterintuitive in a world that
often rewards certainty,doesn't it?
Speaker 1 (00:17):
Absolutely.
And that fascinating idea is.
Well, it's the starting pointfor the source material we're
diving into today.
It's chapter 71, the wisdom oftruth, from something called the
BFG handbook.
The source describes itself asa Christian edition of the Tao
Te Ching.
Speaker 2 (00:34):
Right, a Christian, take on the Tao Te Ching, and it
sets out with a pretty specificstated purpose, doesn't it?
Speaker 1 (00:39):
It does.
It says it wants to present thegospel through a new expression
of God's love.
So our mission for this deepdive is to, you know, pull out
the most important nuggets fromthis chapter.
We're going to explore its coremessage about wisdom, sin,
freedom, see how it's appliedwithin this specific Christian
framework that's the restorepart and then look at how this
source suggests these principlesmight actually resonate as
(01:02):
universal truths, which it callsrespond.
That should give you someinteresting insights, hopefully.
Speaker 2 (01:07):
Sounds good, so where do we start?
Speaker 1 (01:09):
The source gives us five key lines that really lay
the foundation.
To know that you do not know iswisdom.
To not know but proclaim thatyou know is sin.
When one recognizes sin as asin, one can be free from sin.
Speaker 2 (01:24):
Interesting Recognition leads to freedom.
Speaker 1 (01:27):
The Son of God is without sin because he
recognizes sin as sin and,finally, that is why he is free
from sin.
Speaker 2 (01:34):
A direct consequence.
Okay, so those are the corelines.
Speaker 1 (01:36):
Exactly Now.
The source immediately goes onto interpret these verses
through its stated Christianlens, focusing on how they work
to restore truth.
Speaker 2 (01:44):
Okay, so unpacking that first line to know that you
do not know is wisdom.
How does the source see thatthrough a Christian viewpoint?
Speaker 1 (01:52):
Well, it really emphasizes humility.
The source points out thatrecognizing our limitations
isn't a weakness at all.
Speaker 2 (01:59):
No, it's actually what points us towards God as
the ultimate source of truewisdom.
Right.
Speaker 1 (02:04):
It even references passages like Matthew 23.
Speaker 2 (02:07):
Where Jesus warns against the religious leaders
who claimed all this knowledgeand authority but lacked genuine
understanding and humility.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
Exactly.
The idea is that trueunderstanding begins with
acknowledging our own ignorance,not pretending we've got it all
figured out.
Speaker 2 (02:22):
Okay, that makes sense.
Then the second line to notknow but proclaim that you know
is sin.
How's that interpreted?
Speaker 1 (02:29):
This is seen as aligning directly with deception
and pride.
Speaker 2 (02:33):
The source highlights this strongly, doesn't it,
linking it to ideas like in 1John 1.8.
Speaker 1 (02:37):
Yeah about deceiving ourselves.
If we claim to be without sin,it frames self-deception,
especially about our ownknowledge or righteousness.
At that crucial first step awayfrom aligning with truth.
Speaker 2 (02:47):
So pretending to know is actually a form of
self-deception.
Speaker 1 (02:51):
That's the argument, and this is where it gets really
interesting with the third line.
Speaker 2 (02:59):
When one recognizes sin as a sin, one can be free
from sin Right because thesource presents this recognition
, not as like a moment ofcondemnation.
Speaker 1 (03:05):
Not at all, but as the actual path to freedom from
its power.
Speaker 2 (03:10):
That's a key point in the source's interpretation.
It echoes passages like Romans6, where Paul talks about being
set free from sin's power.
Speaker 1 (03:16):
Right.
It's by acknowledging sin forwhat it is, you know, a
deviation from God's will, thatopens the door.
Opens the door to repentance,forgiveness and, ultimately,
grace and freedom precisely, andin the final two lines, the
ones pointing to jesus.
The son of god is without sinbecause he recognizes sin as sin
, and that is why he is freefrom sin so here the source
(03:38):
holds up jesus as the ultimateexample.
He was without sin according tothis interpretation precisely
because he had perfect clarityabout what sin was and
completely rejected it.
He was in perfect alignmentwith God's will.
Speaker 2 (03:50):
Yeah, the source references scriptures like 1
Peter 2 and 1 John 3, which talkabout Jesus's sinlessness.
Speaker 1 (03:57):
And passages like Romans 8 explain that this state
of being free from sin's poweris offered through Christ.
Speaker 2 (04:03):
Right.
So his freedom wasn't justautomatic.
It was a direct consequence ofhis perfect recognition and
rejection of sin.
Speaker 1 (04:10):
That freedom then becomes available to those who
follow him.
Speaker 2 (04:13):
Got it.
So, summing up this restorepart, the source uses these
simple lines to highlighthumility, honest recognition of
sin, repentance and the exampleof Christ.
Speaker 1 (04:24):
Yes, as absolutely central to finding wisdom and
freedom.
Within this specific framework,it really sets the stage for
how these ideas can be lived outwhich I guess brings us to the
next section, the practicalapplication exactly.
The source presents somethingcalled the trinitarian map as
the method for renewal,practical ways to apply these
principles in your life.
Speaker 2 (04:42):
The Trinitarian MAP right.
So MAP stands for Mindset, aimand Practice.
Speaker 1 (04:47):
That's it.
It's presented as a frameworkwhere God's love shapes your
mindset, trust in the Sondirects your aim and faith in
the Holy Spirit guides yourpractice.
Speaker 2 (04:56):
A map for personal transformation, basically using
the wisdom from chapter 71.
Right.
Speaker 1 (05:00):
So let's take that first principle we talked about
To know that you do not know iswisdom.
How does the source suggest weapply this humility across the
MAP?
Speaker 2 (05:10):
Well, it starts with your mindset.
The source says you shouldapproach life with a spirit of
humility, being truly honestabout your limitations.
Speaker 1 (05:18):
So wisdom comes from recognizing ignorance, not
feeling like you have all theanswers.
Speaker 2 (05:23):
Exactly, it's about staying teachable, remaining
open.
The source connects thismindset to drawing true wisdom
from God.
Speaker 1 (05:30):
Makes sense Referencing things like Proverbs
3 and James 1.
Speaker 2 (05:33):
Right.
So the practical takeaway foryour mindset is just being
willing to admit you don't knowand being open to learning.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
Okay, and how does that shape your aim?
What should you be striving for?
Speaker 2 (05:43):
Your aim should be to actively cultivate humility,
really work on acknowledgingyour limitations and lack of
knowledge.
Speaker 1 (05:50):
The source sees this as vital for spiritual growth.
Speaker 2 (05:53):
Yeah, keeps you teachable, reminds you to depend
on God's wisdom, not just yourown understanding.
Speaker 1 (05:58):
So the aim is to grow in this humility.
Speaker 2 (06:00):
Yes, the application is about remaining open-minded,
not being afraid to admit youdon't have all the answers, and
actively seeking advice when youneed it.
A humble heart.
Speaker 1 (06:10):
And finally the practice.
How do you live this out daily?
Speaker 2 (06:14):
It's about regularly putting that humility into
action.
Acknowledge your finiteness.
You know that you're limited.
Speaker 1 (06:21):
And that opens you up to God's wisdom, and learning
from others Keeps you grounded.
Speaker 2 (06:25):
That's the idea.
Practically, this means thingslike listening more than you
talk, seeking counsel, maybethrough prayer or from mentors.
Speaker 1 (06:32):
Or even just being willing to research something
you don't know instead ofpretending.
Speaker 2 (06:36):
Right.
It shows a genuine willingnessto grow.
Speaker 1 (06:38):
All right, let's move to the second principle.
To not know but proclaim thatyou know is sin.
How does the MAP guide us here?
Speaker 2 (06:44):
Okay for your mindset .
The source says you need toactively reject pride and
arrogance, especially when itcomes to what you claim to know.
Speaker 1 (06:52):
Recognize the real danger of claiming expertise
without actually understanding.
Speaker 2 (06:57):
It's about self-awareness, isn't it?
Recognizing that claiming falseknowledge is deception.
Speaker 1 (07:02):
Right.
The source explains thismindset prevents spiritual pride
and fosters honesty.
It references 1 Corinthians 8and Proverbs 12.
Speaker 2 (07:10):
So the practical mindset shift is to avoid
speaking as if you knoweverything.
Cultivate transparency.
Speaker 1 (07:15):
Exactly which leads to the aim.
What should our aim be here?
Speaker 2 (07:19):
Your aim should be maintaining honesty and
integrity in your communication,Specifically avoiding that
temptation to pretend you knowmore than you do.
Speaker 1 (07:28):
Because the source stresses that overstating your
knowledge hinders growth anddeceives others.
Speaker 2 (07:33):
Right the application is resist trying to impress
people with false knowledge.
Aim for transparency, bewilling to admit when you don't
know and seekives others.
Right the application is resisttrying to impress people with
false knowledge.
Aim for transparency, bewilling to admit when you don't
know and seek guidance instead.
Speaker 1 (07:42):
This builds stronger relationships based on trust,
presumably.
Speaker 2 (07:46):
That's the connection it makes and in terms of daily
practice.
Speaker 1 (07:49):
Practice honesty in your words and actions
consistently.
Make it a habit to avoidpretending.
Be transparent about yourunderstanding.
Speaker 2 (07:57):
Yeah, the source says this practice fosters trust and
authenticity, avoids that prideand deception trap and makes
room for God to work.
Speaker 1 (08:05):
So practically avoid overstating, admit gaps, seek
help strengthens relationshipsand your own growth, exactly
Okay.
Let's tackle the thirdprinciple.
When one recognizes sin as asin, one can be free from sin.
This feels like a reallycrucial point.
How does the MAP apply?
Speaker 2 (08:22):
It begins with your mindset.
The source encourages adoptinga mindset of well self-awareness
and responsibility.
Speaker 1 (08:29):
So, instead of rationalizing or minimizing sin,
you acknowledge it for what itis.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
Yes, facing sin honestly is presented as the
essential first step towardfreedom.
Speaker 1 (08:37):
It's about seeing sin not just as condemnation but an
opportunity for something else.
Speaker 2 (08:42):
Exactly the source explains that this recognition
and confession opens the door totransformation, redemption,
wholeness, not just judgment.
Speaker 1 (08:48):
It points to scriptures like 1 John, 1.9 and
Psalm 51.
Speaker 2 (08:51):
Right.
The practical mindset shift ispracticing self-reflection and
facing sin with humility.
That clears the path for growthand freedom.
Speaker 1 (08:59):
Okay, so what should our aim be then, based on that
mindset?
Speaker 2 (09:02):
Your aim should be specifically focused on
recognizing sin in your own lifeand actively addressing it.
Speaker 1 (09:08):
Which means confronting it through
repentance and intentionallyrealigning your life with God's
will.
Speaker 2 (09:14):
That's it, the source frames, recognizing sin as an
offense against God.
Freedom begins with thisawareness and a conscious
decision to confront the sin,not justify or ignore it.
Speaker 1 (09:25):
So the application is regular evaluation of thoughts,
actions, attitudes.
Speaker 2 (09:30):
Confessing and repenting when you fall short,
and allowing grace to work.
Restoration.
Speaker 1 (09:35):
And for practice.
How do we live this daily?
Speaker 2 (09:38):
You need to cultivate consistent self-awareness.
Regularly examine your thoughts, words, actions.
See where you might be fallingshort.
Speaker 1 (09:45):
And then practice repentance and seeking
forgiveness.
Speaker 2 (09:48):
Yes, the source says recognizing sin is crucial for
living out your purpose.
Acknowledging deviations andtaking steps to repent is the
process that brings freedom.
Speaker 1 (09:56):
So this involves regular self-reflection, maybe
through prayer or journaling.
Speaker 2 (10:05):
Could be Acknowledging shortcomings,
asking forgiveness and activelychanging behaviors to live with
integrity and ongoing repentance.
Speaker 1 (10:08):
All right, let's look at the fourth principle, the
one pointing to Jesus.
The Son of God is without sinbecause he recognizes sin as sin
.
How does the MAP help us applythis idea of Christlike purity?
Speaker 2 (10:20):
In terms of mindset, the source encourages focusing
on Jesus's example.
His sinlessness is presented asa result of his perfect
recognition and rejection of sin.
Speaker 1 (10:30):
So the mindset is to strive towards that same clarity
, seeing sin for exactly what itis and aiming for Christ-like
purity.
Speaker 2 (10:38):
It's not just about avoiding sin, but understanding
why you should avoid it andseeing it as a conscious choice
for righteousness modeled byChrist.
Speaker 1 (10:46):
Right Referencing Hebrews 4 and 1 Peter 2.
Speaker 2 (10:48):
The application is cultivating a deep understanding
of God's standards, studyingJesus' life, applying His
teachings and actively imitatinghis purity in your own life.
Speaker 1 (10:57):
Okay, so what should our aim be in light of this
example?
Speaker 2 (11:01):
Your aim should be to grow in purity and
righteousness, actively seekingto live like Christ by rejecting
sin.
Speaker 1 (11:06):
Jesus as the model, again striving to be holy and
pure, aligning with God's will.
That's part of becoming morelike him.
Speaker 2 (11:13):
That's how the source presents it.
The application is makingconscious choices based on God's
word, striving for purity inthoughts and actions.
Living in that alignment leadsto growth and peace.
It's framed as a daily effortTo live a pure and righteous
life by aligning your actionsand thoughts with God's word and
actively rejecting sin when itarises.
Speaker 1 (11:32):
Jesus' sinlessness is the model.
Speaker 2 (11:35):
Practicing purity aligns you with god's holiness
and it's seen as essential forliving out your purpose serving
others by reflecting christ.
So yeah, it means makingintentional choices every day to
resist temptation, living in away that honors god, even when
those decisions are tough okay.
Speaker 1 (11:51):
Finally, the fifth principle.
That is why he is free from sin.
How does the map apply thisidea of living in freedom
through Christ?
Speaker 2 (11:59):
Your mindset should be one of embracing the freedom
you have in Christ.
The source emphasizes thatbecause Jesus was sinless, he
overcame sin and through him youcan live free.
Speaker 1 (12:08):
And this freedom isn't just a future promise,
it's for here and now.
Speaker 2 (12:12):
That's the point.
It's about recognizing you'renot enslaved to sin's power
anymore.
The practical mindset is livingin that freedom, by accepting
forgiveness, allowing the HolySpirit to empower you,
recognizing your identity isn'tdefined by past sin, and walking
in victory.
Speaker 1 (12:29):
So what's the aim here?
Speaker 2 (12:30):
Your aim should be to keep your focus firmly on the
freedom from sin that Christoffers, living in the victory he
secured.
Speaker 1 (12:37):
Through His life, death, resurrection.
Speaker 2 (12:40):
The source explains that by His grace you can live
free, not necessarily perfectly,but free from the bondage of
sin because of His finished work.
Speaker 1 (12:48):
So the application is intentionally focusing on
living out that freedom,resisting being bound by past
mistakes.
Speaker 2 (12:55):
Yes, and relying on the Holy Spirit's strength,
reflecting Christ's love andgrace to others.
Speaker 1 (13:00):
And how does that translate into daily practice?
Speaker 2 (13:02):
Your daily practice involves living in that freedom
that comes through Christ'svictory.
This means actively rejectingsin's power over you and being
empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Speaker 1 (13:12):
Because the source is clear.
Christ freed you from both thepenalty and the power of sin.
Speaker 2 (13:17):
Right.
So practicing this freedommeans actively resisting
temptations, setting boundaries,making decisions that align
with God's values.
It's about choosingrighteousness because you are
free to, not because you have to.
Speaker 1 (13:29):
So the renewal section, this Trinitarian MAP,
it really provides a practicalframework, takes those profound
ideas from chapter 71, and givesyou concrete ways to cultivate
a new mindset, set your aims andengage in daily practices.
Speaker 2 (13:43):
It truly bridges that gap from understanding to
action, trying to make ittangible.
Speaker 1 (13:48):
Exactly, and the source then broadens the view
even further in the finalsection.
It suggests that living in thisstate of renewal empowers you
to respond to the world.
Speaker 2 (13:57):
Respond how.
Speaker 1 (13:59):
Well, it encourages dialogue by showing how these
core principles it's drawingfrom the BFG handbook are
actually presented as sharedtruths that resonate across many
different cultural andreligious boundaries.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
Okay, so it's looking for universal connections.
That's a powerful claim.
Let's look at some of theparallels the source presents.
Speaker 1 (14:15):
Okay, based on that first line, to know that you do
not know is wisdom.
The source identifies auniversal truth of humility and
knowledge.
Speaker 2 (14:22):
And what parallels does it draw a universal truth
of humility and knowledge?
And what?
Speaker 1 (14:24):
parallels does it draw?
It lists Christianity, IslamQuran 2.269,.
Buddhism, the Dhammapada, andHinduism, Bhagavad Gita, 4.34.
The source argues this unitesus because virtually all wisdom
traditions value humblyacknowledging the limits of our
knowledge.
Speaker 2 (14:39):
So it frames this as a universal human need to seek
wisdom, promoting openness,teachability.
Speaker 1 (14:45):
Exactly Humility before the divine and before
other people.
Speaker 2 (14:48):
And the real world application of this shared idea.
Speaker 1 (14:52):
It fosters collaboration, learning, growth.
When you're open about what youdon't know, you ask questions,
You're open to others' wisdomLeads to better decisions.
Stronger connections Makessense.
Speaker 2 (15:01):
Okay, then, from to not know but proclaim that you
know is sin, we see theuniversal truth of honesty and
integrity.
Speaker 1 (15:08):
Right.
Parallels listed includeChristianity, Proverbs 12.22,.
Islam, Quran, Buddhism, rightspeech and the precepts, and
Hinduism, Bhagavad Gita 16.3.
Speaker 2 (15:17):
And the argument is that honestly and integrity are
foundational values everywhere.
Speaker 1 (15:21):
Pretty much.
Speaker 2 (15:22):
Claiming false knowledge isn't just an error
it's universally seen as a moralfailing that erodes trust.
So being truthful about what weknow or don't know is key for
building trust in any society.
Speaker 1 (15:34):
Absolutely the real world applications at practicing
honesty builds trust andintegrity in all areas.
Being truthful leads to clearercommunication, avoids
misunderstand misunderstandingsand creates space for genuine
learning okay.
Speaker 2 (15:48):
When one recognizes sin as a sin, one can be free
from sin.
Comes the universal truth ofrecognizing and repenting from
sin or wrongdoing christianityfirst john 1.9.
Islam quran 39.53 buddhismlinking suffering to wrong
actions and the four nobletruths.
Speaker 1 (16:05):
And Hinduism, Bhagavad Gita 9.3031.
The source says this unites usbecause basically every major
spiritual path recognizeswrongdoing or moral error.
Speaker 2 (16:15):
And the necessity of acknowledging and correcting it.
It highlights this as auniversal process of spiritual
healing and transformation.
Speaker 1 (16:21):
Right.
Acknowledging faults isn'tunique.
It's a fundamental human steptoward growth across cultures.
Speaker 2 (16:26):
And the real world impact.
Speaker 1 (16:27):
Confessing, taking responsibility, striving to
correct it leads to personalhealing, spiritual growth and
contributes to a more just andcompassionate world.
It's about accountability andrestoration.
Speaker 2 (16:39):
Makes sense Okay.
From the son of God is withoutsin, because he recognizes sin
as sin, we get the universaltruth of purity and
righteousness.
Speaker 1 (16:48):
Parallels here include Christianity 1 Peter
2.22,.
Islam, Quran, 33.21, citingMuhammad as an example.
Speaker 2 (16:56):
Buddhism's Eightfold Path.
Hinduism's Bhagavad Gita, 16.
Right.
Speaker 1 (17:00):
The source suggests the pursuit of purity, moral
clarity and righteous living isa common thread.
Speaker 2 (17:05):
Aspiring to moral and spiritual purity leads to
alignment with divine principles, regardless of the specific
tradition, following virtuousexamples, striving for right
living that unites seekers.
Speaker 1 (17:15):
That's the idea presented.
The real world application isliving with integrity, where
your actions reflect your valueshonesty, respect, high moral
character and how thatpositively influences others.
Okay, character and how thatpositively influences others.
Speaker 2 (17:26):
Okay, finally, based on that is why he is free from
sin.
There is the universal truth ofliving in freedom from sin or
suffering, through divine graceor liberation.
Speaker 1 (17:34):
And the source finds parallels in Christianity John
8.36,.
Islam Quran 2.221,.
Buddhism achieving nirvana, andHinduism Bhagavad Gita, 18.66.
Speaker 2 (17:47):
This resonates universally because the desire
for freedom from sin, suffering,karma, worldly desires seems
like a fundamental human longing.
Speaker 1 (17:56):
Exactly Each path the source suggests offers a way to
this freedom, whether throughgrace, repentance, right living
or other practices.
It speaks to a deep shareddesire for growth, repentance,
right living or other practices.
It speaks to a deep shareddesire for growth, peace and
divine connection.
Speaker 2 (18:09):
And the practical way this plays out in the world.
Speaker 1 (18:11):
It's about living a life reflecting that inner
freedom from negative influences, relying on whatever your
tradition identifies as thesource of empowerment or
liberation.
Speaker 2 (18:19):
Making daily choices according to spiritual
principles, not out ofobligation but out of freedom.
Speaker 1 (18:24):
Right.
So this response section reallyemphasizes that the core
principles from chapter 71,while interpreted through a
specific lens earlier.
Speaker 2 (18:32):
They echo deeply across many different spiritual
paths.
They point to shared humanaspirations for wisdom,
integrity, repentance, purityand, ultimately, liberation.
Speaker 1 (18:41):
It's quite striking to see those connections laid
out like that.
Speaker 2 (18:44):
It really does suggest a kind of common
language for some fundamentalspiritual truths, doesn't it?
Speaker 1 (18:49):
It does Well.
We've certainly taken a deepdive into chapter 71 of the BFG
handbook today.
We started with itsfoundational lines on wisdom,
sin and freedom, explored itsChristian interpretation,
focused on restoring truth.
Speaker 2 (19:01):
Then looked at its practical application for
renewal through that TrinitarianMAP the mindset, aim and
practice.
Speaker 1 (19:08):
And finally saw how the source presents these core
principles as responding touniversal truths that echo
across major world religions.
Maybe some practical insightsfor your own journey toward
wisdom and freedom.
You know, no matter whereyou're starting from, and here's
a provocative thought for youto consider as you go about your
day If the wisdom of knowingwhat you don't know and the
(19:31):
profound freedom found inhonestly recognizing wrongdoing,
if these are indeed universaltruths woven into the very
fabric of human spiritualseeking, what does that imply
about the fundamental path weare all called to walk,
regardless of our specificbeliefs or traditions?
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
The Bobby Bones Show
Listen to 'The Bobby Bones Show' by downloading the daily full replay.