Muddied wells and poisoned waters…

In a recent allegory posted on Sharper Iron, Dr. Kevin T. Bauder draws a simple and deceptively logical argument for the inspiration of the many different Bible translations. It is logical on the surface, but it is deceptive. You can read the story here. The problem with the whole idea is the assumption that any well which gets water is good! I grew up in the country, have friends that live in the country, and have tasted well water many a time. The simple fact is that different wells bring different tastes. Some are steeped in alkali, and make it salty. Others contain iron, and taste like blood to the untutored. Still others may contain traces of any number of minerals, all affecting their taste and usability.

Each well does not contain water only. Many wells are contaminated by various pollutants, and some are heavily influenced by the land above. Some wells contain oil, which is helpfull to the wallet, but useless for the body. I have showered in well-water that left you dirtier than you came. I have drunk well-water that left you thirstier than before. I have used well-water that left one feeling slimy, putrid, and sick afterward. And thankfully, I have tasted well water that was more pure and clean than any I have ever had in the city. Nothing beats good water from an old well, especially on a hot day.
Dr. Bauder would do “well” (pun intended!) to survey the ground before he wrote. I would agree with him that many of the wells “contain” water. I would even go so far as to state that most of the wells are even profitable for us. However, I am thankful for the old Authorised well, and it’s fierce guardians. I know there is no tampering, no pollutants, and limited supply. There is no toll charged for its water, and the only requirement is that we do not undermine that Ancient spring.

May God give us discernment in these deceptively easy times. Stay with the Authorized Well