RESTORE

This chapter from the BFG Handbook (Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching) presents the gospel through a new "Expression" of God’s Love to RESTORE the Truth.

Chapter 18: The Self

When people abandon God’s Way
Their own self-righteousness appears ^a

When people turn to cleverness
Their own deception appears

When people lose harmony in the family ^b
Their emphasis on family values appears

When the people are confused and in chaos ^c
Their false minister appears

^aExodus 32:1-10; 1 Corinthians 3:18-21; ^b 1 Timothy 5:8; ^cJeremiah 23:16.

Chapter 18 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching addresses the consequences of abandoning God’s Way and the human tendency to rely on self-made solutions rather than seeking divine guidance. It begins by saying that when people abandon God’s Way, their own self-righteousness appears. This can be seen in biblical narratives such as the story of the golden calf in Exodus 32:1-10, where the Israelites, in their impatience and lack of faith, created an idol to worship, thinking it would guide them. This self-righteousness, born from the attempt to control their own destiny, led to sin and separation from God. Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 3:18-21, Paul warns against human wisdom and boasting, emphasizing that true wisdom comes from God. The pursuit of self-righteousness without God’s guidance inevitably leads to a distorted sense of what is right.

The next part of the chapter highlights how, when people turn to cleverness, their own deception appears. This speaks to the dangers of relying on human ingenuity and trickery instead of trusting in God’s truth. In the Christian context, this can be related to the temptation to rely on deceit or manipulation, which leads to further separation from God’s truth and leads people down a path of lies and confusion. The Bible often warns about the deceitfulness of the heart, as seen in Jeremiah 17:9, and encourages believers to seek truth through God’s Word rather than worldly wisdom.

The chapter continues by pointing out that when people lose harmony in the family, their emphasis on family values appears. While family values are important, the chapter suggests that when harmony is lost, an overemphasis on these values without grounding them in God’s love and grace can lead to confusion and division. The Christian perspective highlights that true family harmony comes from reflecting God’s love and forgiveness within the home, as exemplified in passages like 1 Timothy 5:8, where Paul stresses that taking care of one’s family is an essential responsibility but should be done in alignment with the teachings of Christ.

Lastly, when people are confused and in chaos, their false minister appears. This refers to the rise of leaders who offer false solutions or misguided teachings in times of turmoil. The Bible warns against false prophets and teachers who lead people astray, as seen in Jeremiah 23:16, where the Lord instructs His people not to listen to the words of prophets who speak deceitfully and lead them away from the true path. In the Christian understanding, such false ministers can be those who exploit confusion for personal gain or power, rather than guiding others with the truth of the gospel.

Overall, Chapter 18 of the Tao Te Ching mirrors the Christian belief that abandoning God’s Way leads to self-deception, division, and confusion. True peace and righteousness can only be found through a humble reliance on God and His Word, which offers clarity, unity, and wisdom in every aspect of life, from personal righteousness to family harmony.

RENEWAL

The Trinitarian Method (M.A.P.) is the framework for RENEWAL, where God’s Love shapes our MINDSET, Trust in the Son directs our AIM, and Faith in the Holy Spirit guides our PRACTICE.

Mindset:

1. Self-Righteousness Appears When Abandoning God’s Way

Line from the Chapter: “When people abandon God’s Way, their own self-righteousness appears.”
Mindset: Humility and Dependence on God
Explanation: When we stray from God’s Way, we can easily slip into self-righteousness, believing our own understanding and actions are superior. A mindset of humility and dependence on God is crucial to avoid this trap. Recognize that all righteousness comes from God, and we are merely vessels for His will.
Real-World Application: In a world where it is easy to become prideful and self-reliant, adopt the mindset of being teachable and dependent on God’s wisdom. When interacting with others, practice humility, acknowledging that no one is above God’s guidance.
Scripture Reference: Isaiah 64:6 – “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags.” Matthew 7:5 – “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”

2. Cleverness Leads to Deception

Line from the Chapter: “When people turn to cleverness, their own deception appears.”
Mindset: Seek Wisdom, Not Schemes
Explanation: Rather than relying on cleverness or manipulation to solve problems, we must approach challenges with God’s wisdom. Cleverness often leads to deceit, so we must adopt a mindset that values truth, integrity, and God’s guidance over intellectual or worldly shortcuts.
Real-World Application: In business, personal relationships, and even social media, it can be tempting to manipulate situations for personal gain. Cultivate a mindset of honesty and trustworthiness, seeking solutions that honor God rather than relying on cleverness or deceitful tactics.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Jeremiah 17:9 – “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?”

3. False Ideals of Family and Values

Line from the Chapter: “When people lose harmony in the family, their emphasis on family values appears.”
Mindset: Prioritize God’s Peace and Love in Relationships
Explanation: When family dynamics are disrupted, the tendency is to focus on external values and rules. However, true harmony in family comes from love, forgiveness, and unity in Christ. A mindset that prioritizes God’s peace and love in all relationships will guide us to restore and strengthen the family unit.
Real-World Application: In families experiencing stress, focus on restoring relationships through prayer, open communication, and living out God’s commands of love and forgiveness. Instead of focusing solely on “family values” in a worldly sense, keep Christ at the center of your family relationships.
Scripture Reference: Ephesians 5:25 – “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” Colossians 3:13 – “Bear with each other and forgive one another… forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

4. False Leadership Appears in Times of Confusion

Line from the Chapter: “When the people are confused and in chaos, their false minister appears.”
Mindset: Discernment and Trust in God’s Sovereignty
Explanation: In times of confusion and crisis, false leaders often emerge, promising easy answers or appealing to people’s emotions. A mindset of discernment is essential to recognize these leaders. Trust in God’s sovereignty, and know that He is the true source of peace and direction.
Real-World Application: In today’s world, when uncertainty arises—whether politically, socially, or personally—cultivate discernment through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel. Resist the temptation to follow leaders who do not align with God’s Word or who offer easy solutions. Seek God’s guidance and peace through His truth.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 24:24 – “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.”

AIM:

1. Self-Righteousness Appears When Abandoning God’s Way

Line from the Chapter: “When people abandon God’s Way, their own self-righteousness appears.”
Aim: Keep your focus on humility and righteousness from God, not self-made righteousness.
Explanation: In a world where individualism and self-reliance are often praised, it is easy to rely on our own understanding, which leads to self-righteousness. Instead, aim to stay grounded in God’s righteousness and His way of living. True righteousness comes from God, not from human efforts.
Real-World Application: In moments of success or moral judgment, resist the urge to boast in your achievements or intellect. Instead, acknowledge God’s grace and guidance in every good thing. Keep God at the center of your actions, knowing that without Him, we can do nothing.
Scripture Reference: Isaiah 64:6 – “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags.” Matthew 7:5 – “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye…”

2. Cleverness Leads to Deception

Line from the Chapter: “When people turn to cleverness, their own deception appears.”
Aim: Focus on wisdom and truth from God rather than relying on worldly cleverness.
Explanation: Cleverness can often mask true intentions and lead to deception. Rather than leaning on our own intellectual prowess or schemes, we should seek wisdom from God. Aiming for truth and integrity helps ensure that we don’t manipulate situations for personal gain.
Real-World Application: When faced with a challenging situation, resist the temptation to take shortcuts or use clever strategies to achieve your goal. Instead, pray for discernment and take actions that align with God’s truth. Speak truthfully and avoid half-truths.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…” Jeremiah 17:9 – “The heart is deceitful above all things…”

3. False Ideals of Family and Values

Line from the Chapter: “When people lose harmony in the family, their emphasis on family values appears.”
Aim: Aim for true harmony in relationships, grounded in love and forgiveness in Christ.
Explanation: While societal values may promote certain family ideals, true family harmony comes from following God’s principles of love, forgiveness, and humility. Rather than focusing on outward appearances or rigid family roles, aim to restore harmony through Christ’s love.
Real-World Application: In family disputes, focus on reconciliation and peace, rather than enforcing strict family values or roles. Pray for God’s help in restoring broken relationships, and model Christ’s love by forgiving and seeking forgiveness.
Scripture Reference: Ephesians 5:25 – “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church…” Colossians 3:13 – “Bear with each other and forgive one another…”

4. False Leadership Appears in Times of Confusion

Line from the Chapter: “When the people are confused and in chaos, their false minister appears.”
Aim: Keep your focus on God’s true leadership and avoid following false leaders.
Explanation: During times of uncertainty, false leaders may rise, promising easy answers and appealing to the fears and emotions of people. It’s essential to remain focused on God’s guidance and wisdom, discerning who truly represents His truth.
Real-World Application: In times of political or social unrest, be cautious about following leaders who promise quick fixes or who appeal to personal biases. Test their words and actions against Scripture and seek God’s wisdom through prayer. Trust that God’s truth will guide you in all situations.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 24:24 – “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear…” 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine…”

Practice:

1. Practice Humility Over Self-Righteousness

Line from the Chapter: “When people abandon God’s Way, their own self-righteousness appears.”
Practice: Practice humility by acknowledging your dependence on God’s grace, and avoid pride in your own righteousness.
Explanation: When we follow our own self-righteousness instead of God’s Way, we risk becoming prideful and self-centered. By practicing humility, we understand that our righteousness comes from God alone, not from our own works.
Real-World Application: Before taking credit for any success, remember to give glory to God for His guidance and provision. Recognize your limitations and seek God’s strength in every situation. Practice listening and serving others without boasting in your own achievements.
Scripture Reference: Isaiah 64:6 – “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags.”
James 4:6 – “But He gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'”

2. Practice Discernment and Wisdom Over Cleverness

Line from the Chapter: “When people turn to cleverness, their own deception appears.”
Practice: Practice discernment, wisdom, and truth, seeking God’s guidance rather than relying on manipulative or deceptive strategies.
Explanation: Cleverness often involves relying on one’s own intellect and ability to manipulate situations for personal gain. True wisdom comes from God, who guides us in making decisions with integrity and honesty.
Real-World Application: In your decision-making, resist the temptation to take shortcuts or deceive others for convenience. Instead, seek God’s wisdom through prayer, Scripture, and godly counsel, ensuring your actions are rooted in truth and integrity.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 2:6 – “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
James 3:17 – “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit…”

3. Practice True Harmony in Relationships Over Empty Ideals

Line from the Chapter: “When people lose harmony in the family, their emphasis on family values appears.”
Practice: Practice true harmony in relationships, grounded in love, understanding, and forgiveness, not just outward expressions of family ideals.
Explanation: Outwardly focusing on family values can be empty if there is no genuine love and peace in relationships. God’s Way calls for humility, love, and reconciliation within families. By practicing forgiveness and patience, you can restore harmony in family life.
Real-World Application: In moments of tension with family members, prioritize listening, understanding, and reconciling rather than simply enforcing rules or values. Practice unconditional love and be ready to forgive, just as Christ forgave you.
Scripture Reference: Ephesians 4:2-3 – “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Colossians 3:13 – “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

4. Practice Discernment in Leadership Over Following False Leaders

Line from the Chapter: “When the people are confused and in chaos, their false minister appears.”
Practice: Practice discernment in leadership, focusing on godly leadership that represents truth, integrity, and humility.
Explanation: In times of confusion or crisis, false leaders may appear, promising solutions based on fear or personal agendas. Instead of following these leaders, we are called to seek God’s truth and follow those who lead with humility and integrity.
Real-World Application: When seeking guidance or leadership, measure the leaders’ actions and words against God’s Word. Don’t follow people simply because they offer promises of quick solutions. Pray for discernment and seek counsel from those who align with God’s values and truth.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:15-16 – “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit, you will recognize them.”
Proverbs 12:15 – “The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.”

5. Practice Faithfulness and Integrity Over Self-Interest

Line from the Chapter: “The Master proceeds calmly, fulfills His promise, and settles matters, and the people say, ‘Amazing, we did it naturally!'”
Practice: Practice faithfulness, integrity, and keeping your word, trusting that God will accomplish His work through you.
Explanation: The Master, representing God’s leadership, doesn’t need to force or manipulate outcomes. He remains calm and faithful, fulfilling His promises with integrity. This teaches us to trust in God’s plan and to act in faith, knowing that He will guide our efforts.
Real-World Application: Be faithful in your commitments, whether in your personal life or in ministry. Follow through on your promises, and trust that God will work through you. Your actions may inspire others to do the same, and you will see His work done in natural ways.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:37 – “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
1 Corinthians 4:2 – “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.”

RESPOND

Renewal brings the transformation of our spirit with ardor, empowering us to RESPOND to the call of holiness and make disciples of all nations. This encourages meaningful dialogue to embrace shared truths that transcend cultural and religious boundaries.

1. Humility Over Self-Righteousness

Line from the Chapter: “When people abandon God’s Way, their own self-righteousness appears.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Jesus teaches humility, saying, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12)
- Islam: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whoever has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride will not enter Paradise.” (Sahih Muslim)
- Buddhism: The Buddha taught the virtue of humility and avoiding attachment to one’s own superiority.
- Hinduism: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to act with humility, saying, “Perform your duty with detachment, without any desire for reward.” (Bhagavad Gita 2:47)
How This Unites Us: All these teachings emphasize that true greatness comes not from self-exaltation but from humility and acknowledging our limitations and dependence on a higher power. Whether it’s through humbling oneself before God, the universe, or others, humility is central to spiritual growth.
Real-World Application: Practice humility in your daily life by listening to others, acknowledging your mistakes, and seeking to serve rather than be served. In leadership, avoid arrogance and seek the good of others first.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 23:12 – “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
Proverbs 11:2 – “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”

2. Wisdom Over Cleverness

Line from the Chapter: “When people turn to cleverness, their own deception appears.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: James 3:17 encourages wisdom from God, “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit.”
- Islam: The Quran speaks of the wisdom of God’s guidance, stating, “He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom has indeed been given much good.” (Quran 2:269)
- Buddhism: The Buddha teaches the importance of wisdom and right understanding in achieving liberation.
- Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita stresses the importance of discerning truth over deceit, and acting according to wisdom from the Divine.
How This Unites Us: All these teachings emphasize seeking divine wisdom over relying on our own cleverness or manipulation. Wisdom from a higher source leads to true peace, while cleverness can often result in harm or deceit.
Real-World Application: In situations of conflict or decision-making, resist the urge to manipulate outcomes for your benefit. Instead, seek wisdom through prayer, meditation, or reflection on divine teachings, and choose actions that honor truth and integrity.
Scripture Reference: James 3:17 – “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit.”
Proverbs 2:6 – “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

3. Harmony in Relationships Over Empty Ideals

Line from the Chapter: “When people lose harmony in the family, their emphasis on family values appears.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Ephesians 4:2-3 urges, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
- Islam: The Quran calls for kindness and cooperation in relationships: “And live with them in kindness.” (Quran 4:19)
- Buddhism: Buddhism emphasizes loving-kindness (Metta) and compassion in family and all relationships.
- Hinduism: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna talks about loving and serving others selflessly, which leads to harmonious relationships.
How This Unites Us: Across religions, the emphasis on true harmony in relationships—rooted in love, patience, and kindness—binds humanity together. It is not enough to merely adhere to external family norms; real peace comes from practicing compassion and understanding within relationships.
Real-World Application: In your family life, focus on resolving conflicts with love, patience, and understanding rather than just following rigid rules or ideals. Make a conscious effort to foster a loving and forgiving atmosphere.
Scripture Reference: Ephesians 4:2-3 – “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Colossians 3:13 – “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

4. Discernment in Leadership Over False Leaders

Line from the Chapter: “When the people are confused and in chaos, their false minister appears.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Jesus warns about false leaders, saying, “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” (Matthew 7:15)
- Islam: The Quran speaks of those who mislead others for their own gain: “And they are nothing but a diversion and a delusion.” (Quran 3:187)
- Buddhism: The Buddha warns against following deceptive teachers, emphasizing the importance of finding true wisdom.
- Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita advises discerning between true and false teachings, and following the path of dharma.
How This Unites Us: All religions encourage discernment in leadership. They warn against false leaders who deceive for personal gain and emphasize the need for spiritual leaders to lead with integrity and truth.
Real-World Application: Evaluate leaders based on their actions and alignment with divine principles rather than superficial qualities. Be cautious in following those who promise easy answers without integrity. Seek leaders who practice humility, wisdom, and justice.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:15 – “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.”
1 John 4:1 – “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God…”

5. Faithfulness and Integrity in Actions Over Self-Interest

Line from the Chapter: “The Master proceeds calmly, fulfills His promise, and settles matters, and the people say, ‘Amazing, we did it naturally!'”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 5:37 says, “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
- Islam: The Quran teaches the importance of fulfilling promises: “And fulfill every covenant. Indeed, the covenant will be questioned.” (Quran 17:34)
- Buddhism: The Buddha taught that right action (Samma Kammanta) leads to peace and harmony.
- Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita speaks of acting according to duty without selfish attachment, fulfilling promises with integrity.
How This Unites Us: Faithfulness and integrity are universally emphasized as virtues that uphold trust and harmony in human relationships. Across religious traditions, fulfilling one’s promises and acting with integrity is seen as a reflection of spiritual maturity.
Real-World Application: Be a person of your word. When you make a promise, whether big or small, fulfill it with integrity and honor. Let your actions align with your values, and trust that God will guide you in fulfilling your purpose.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:37 – “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
Proverbs 12:22 – “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”

These principles from the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching reflect universal truths shared across major world religions, emphasizing humility, wisdom, integrity, and faithfulness. These teachings unite us by reminding us that true spiritual growth and harmony come not from self-interest or external ideals but from living in alignment with divine wisdom and leading with compassion and integrity. By practicing these virtues in everyday life, we help create a more just, loving, and peaceful world, reflecting God’s love and purpose.

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