Salsify flower and seed “parachute”. Which part of this flower-cycle is most important? The flower or the seeds? Hmm.
This is an interesting but essentially irrelevant question! Without both stages of life, the flower species will die out. Flowers attract pollinators; the pollinators “cause” seeds to form; the seeds in due time provide the new plants for next year. Every year.
Like the famous “chicken and egg” dilemma, there is no definitive answer. (By the way- with so many foods said to “taste like chicken” – how come eggs don’t?)
Christians have from time to time debated vigorously about “interesting” questions. One historical classic : “How many angels can dance on the head of a pin?” What a waste of time! What a diversion of energy from essential Kingdom purposes… But theologians thought it worthy of debate.
What is more important- spiritual gifts or spiritual fruit? Both!
What matters most- correct doctrine or correct practice? In real life, it’s almost impossible to have one without the other. We truly need “Jesus-think” alongside “Jesus-love.”
As James puts it, faith without action is worthless. Paul writes “Be transformed through the renewing of your minds” (Romans 12:1).
Thinking in a holy way (Christ-like) will lead us to act in a holy way (Christ-like) even if that sets us against the accepted norms of society. Just remember that Jesus showed Love- and did so by applying justice AND mercy. He was the most attractive personality, the most stimulating, the most provocative, and lived in full integrity. He overturned tables in the Temple as well as healed the lame: he taught in stories and performed miraculous signs. He spoke the Word of Creation; and smashed the power of the grave.
How about we just follow and obey Jesus the best we can? With all that we are?
Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.” (Matt. 22:37, Message)
Look, See, Pray 