The title of our article is a famous quotation by author, Gertrude Stein, generally taken to mean, "Things are what they are." It is what is called, "the law of identity." By changing the name doesn't change the person or thing. It only confuses matters. And it can be dangerous. Try changing the hot and cold faucet handles on your shower to find out.
We have gutted and drained powerful words until they are now anemic. Convicting words such as drunkard is now termed an alcoholic; a bastard to one born out of wedlock; drug addict to substance abuser; whore to street walker. These along with a legion of other weak substitute phrases are geared to soften sin and make it respectable for both the perpetrator and their loved ones. It saves embarrassment before others. And this is important in this superficial, shallow age in which we live.
But to the man after God's heart no such high sounding substitute was used. When this man of high position sinned, he cared not what others thought. He didn't water-down sin; sin was still exceedingly sinful! "Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight," was his heartfelt cry to God. The Blood of Christ cleanses sin, not excuses. Whitewash only takes care of the external. Plus, whatever one is attempting to cover will begin to show through again, at some point.
My oldest son, Andrew, a preacher, speaking of sin and the modern day psychologists' approach to it, said, "It takes a lot of money to get right with God today." Thank God, the Great Physician is free!" Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye...without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money...and your labour for that which satisfieth not?"
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