What Does Variance Mean in the Bible? Understanding Divergence from God's Plan
The word "variance" itself doesn't appear frequently in modern Bible translations. However, the concept of variance—meaning a difference, disagreement, or departure from a standard or expectation—is profoundly relevant to biblical themes. Understanding variance in a biblical context requires looking at related concepts like:
1. Divergence from God's Law and Will:
This is perhaps the most common interpretation related to "variance." The Bible consistently emphasizes God's law and his intended path for humanity. Variance, therefore, refers to actions, beliefs, or choices that deviate from this path. Examples include:
- Disobedience: The fall of Adam and Eve is the prime example. Their choice to disobey God’s command introduced sin and variance into creation, leading to suffering and brokenness. Throughout the Old Testament, Israel’s repeated departures from God’s covenant are depicted as variance, resulting in punishment and exile.
- Idolatry: Worshiping false gods is a clear act of variance, rejecting the one true God and his authority. This is repeatedly condemned in both the Old and New Testaments.
- Unrighteousness: Any action contrary to God's moral standards constitutes variance. This encompasses a wide range of behaviors, from theft and murder to pride and hypocrisy.
2. Internal Conflict and Discord:
Variance can also refer to internal strife within a community or among individuals. The Bible warns against division and encourages unity. Examples include:
- Division within the church: The New Testament frequently addresses issues of discord and factions within the early church. Paul, for example, strongly condemns these divisions in his letters. Variance here refers to a lack of unity and agreement among believers.
- Family disputes: Conflicts within families are also a form of variance, undermining the intended harmony and love within the family unit. The Bible offers guidance on resolving such conflicts through forgiveness, reconciliation, and communication.
3. Differences in Interpretation and Understanding:
Variance can even refer to disagreements in interpreting scripture or understanding God's will. While this is not necessarily negative, it highlights the importance of humility, critical thinking, and seeking understanding through prayer and community.
What are some examples of variance in the Bible?
- The Tower of Babel: The attempt to build a tower reaching to heaven represents a variance from God's plan, leading to the scattering of humanity and the confusion of languages.
- The story of Cain and Abel: Cain's murder of Abel signifies a profound variance from God's commands and reveals the destructive consequences of unchecked anger and jealousy.
- The various factions and disputes within the early church: Acts and the Pauline epistles illustrate the challenges of maintaining unity and dealing with variance in belief and practice among Christians.
How can we avoid variance in our lives?
The Bible provides guidance on how to avoid variance:
- Through obedience to God’s word: Following God's commands and aligning our lives with his will is the most direct way to avoid variance.
- Through prayer and seeking God’s wisdom: Prayer helps us discern God’s will and seek his guidance in our decisions.
- Through community and fellowship: Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers provides support and accountability.
- Through forgiveness and reconciliation: Addressing conflicts and seeking forgiveness helps to restore unity and heal broken relationships.
In essence, while the word "variance" might not appear prominently, the concept itself is central to the biblical narrative. It highlights the consequences of straying from God's plan and the importance of striving for righteousness, unity, and obedience. Understanding this concept provides crucial insight into the core themes of the Bible.
