God’s Word: The Foundation & Focus of Our Faith
Most everyone would agree that we’re living in some uncertain times. The number of “challenges and concerns” seems to grow longer each week and I won’t take the time or space to make a list. Beyond the various items in the daily news cycle, our culture is also facing a sense of darkness—for many years, a Christian worldview hasn’t been the majority perspective for our society. In a book written to support the authority of the Bible, Erwin Lutzer states, “The freedoms Christianity brought to us are being destroyed before our eyes. We are living at a time when humanistic thinking is coming to its natural conclusions in morals, education, and law. If we are to withstand the onslaught, we must be convinced in our own minds that we have a message from God, a sure word that ‘shines in a dark place.’
As Francis Schaeffer told us, only a strong view of Scripture can withstand the powerful pressure of relativistic thinking.” (Seven Reasons Why You Can Trust the Bible, pg 10) In this article, I’d like to encourage everyone to realize that having a strong view of the Bible is absolutely essential, but it’s only the first step we need to take to be convinced in our own minds that we have a message from God that shines in a dark place. Beyond maintaining a firm belief or trust in the authority of God’s Word, it’s important for us to understand the practical and personal advantages
involved in affirming and acknowledging that the Bible has something to say to each of us.
First, I’d like to explain briefly that because we’re in the minority in today’s world when we hold to the belief that God’s Word is true and trustworthy, it’s helpful if we regularly review (& memorize) biblical truths that clearly define how the Bible stands out above all other literature. The most specific verses that express this are in 2 Timothy 3:16—17. “All Scripture is inspired (literally breathed out by God) and is profitable (especially productive and beneficial) for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness, so that the person dedicated to God may be capable and equipped for every good work.”
The next steps revolve around these principles:
—The Bible is filled with wisdom and knowledge that God reveals to us. It’s very important that we realize that God’s goal for us is godliness. The key to godliness is accepting and applying the truth of His Word with an obedient attitude. Please
consider what Psalm 119:9—12 says: 9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By obeying Your word. 10 With all my heart I have sought You; Don’t let me wander away from Your commandments.11 Your word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against You. 12 Blessed are You, O Lord; Teach me Your statutes.
—God’s Word is absolutely essential for our spiritual health and well—being. There is no substitute, replacement, or alternative. Every faithful follower of Christ needs personal interaction as well as personal instruction. On a regular basis we should read and study the Bible for ourselves, and we should also sit under the accurate teaching of God’s Word. Consider what it says in Ephesians 4:11—12. “And He gave (to the Church) … pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ.” Also 2 Timothy 2:15, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.”
In conclusion, please notice Jesus’ prayer for us inserted above. As His disciples, He desires that we would “stand out” from the rest of society because our lives are impacted and influenced by God’s Truth!
With prayer for God’s glory and praise for His grace …
And as always, with prayer for our ACEFC family, Pastor Greg