How to View the Bible (Originally published November 1)

We live in an age that questions everything. While that is not always bad, we need to make sure, when we find an answer to our inquiry, that it is the truth. An answer is not necessarily the answer.

The same is true in religious matters. Take, for example, our view of Scripture. Many question the Bible—or, at least, parts of it. How should we view God’s Word?

First, we should view the Bible as being from God. Paul, to Timothy, said, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God” (2 Timothy 3:16). God, being our Creator and Sustainer, has given us a book to guide us and help us (cf. Psalm 119:105). If the Bible is from God, then the following points are also true.

Second, we should view the Bible as complete. There is nothing missing from the Bible. God gave us “all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3). The Bible was “once for all delivered” (Jude 3). There is no need for another testament, as some would claim. It is true that we must “search the Scriptures” (Acts 17:11), but we should have that desire in us.

Third, we should view the Bible as authoritative. God gave it, and He is the ultimate authority. His words are authoritative. Jesus told His followers that His words would be their (and our) judge in the last day (John 12:48). We must have the attitude, “God said it, that settles it.” No matter what part of our life, we must compare our thoughts, actions, decisions and words with God’s authoritative Word.

Fourth, we should view God’s Word as powerful. It is, after all, God’s “power unto salvation” (Romans 1:16). It is also “living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword” and can “pierce” men (Hebrews 4:12). If we want to turn the world upside down again (cf. Acts 17:6), we must use God’s “dynamite.”

Finally, we should view God’s Word as our curriculum. In our homes, we should be teaching God’s Word (cf. Ephesians 6:4). In our Bible classes, we sometimes use books to guide our thoughts, but the Bible is the basis for all of them. Our sermons and devotionals should be totally based upon God’s Word. As Paul told the young evangelist, “Preach the Word” (2 Timothy 4:2).

Truly, “How precious is the book divine by inspiration given.”

Comment originally published by Jim and Donna Faughn on November 1:

How do you keep outdoing yourself???