When my friend Dean Wilkinson hears about the new definition of grace concocted by Clyde Pilkington, he finds it "exciting; really, really exciting." Then he says, "it's awesome, awesome stuff." Steve Martin describes substituting "joy" for "grace" in Hebrews 4:16 ("the throne of grace") and says, "how cool is that?"

But do either of these gentlemen know that, linguistically, "joy" should never be substituted for "grace"? No. All they know is that they are excited—really, really excited—about another "new revelation" from Clyde.

There is great danger in thinking that "amazing new secrets" remain to be discovered in Scripture. We are always able to more deeply appreciate the treasures of God's revelation, but this is different than embarking on a constant search for something new. Because, if one doesn't readily find these new things, one becomes inclined to invent them.

Paul writes in 2 Thessalonians 2:15, "Consequently, then, brethren, stand firm, and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, whether through word or our epistle."

The journey we are now embarked upon in Christ is not one which seeks new thrills, but which holds firm to old truths. It is being rooted and grounded in the Pauline traditions. It is being established in the faith. These things are the opposite of "being blown about by every wind of teaching" (Ephesians 4:14) and having one's hearing tickled (2 Timothy 4:3).

It sounds kinda boring. But I'll take boring over straying any day.