Allen rightly draws a distinction between education and imitation, stating that the latter has much more to do with proper interpretation of Scripture than the former. While he is quick to extol the virtues of education, he laments the mentality that relegates understanding Scripture to those who are ‘educated’ instead of every Christian believer. Though brief (even shorter than most Cruciform Press offerings), and in need of additional unpacking, Allen manages to support his conclusion well.

Interpretation of Scripture, followed by right application, is the primary way that we are able to be like God. This is not an issue of education. It’s an issue of imitation. [21]

Underneath every act of sin is a wrong interpretation of God’s Word. [32]

Education has never been the standard. It is certainly not irrelevant, but the testimony of Scripture is that education takes its place behind imitation of God. Only when education and imitation are in proper relationship can we move to application. Right application follows right interpretation. [55]

Ethical conduct is always more important than ceremonial obedience. It was hard for the Pharisees to see this. Under their interpretation and application of the Law, rituals had become greater than mercy and greater than love. They were so deep in their bad interpretation that they had long ago lost clarity on what it really means to honor the Lord. [61]

It is entirely biblical to learn from others, but it is altogether unbiblical to learn only from others. [73] 

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