THE BIBLE
Read 2 Timothy 3:14-17.
“We believe the Bible is the final authority for what we believe and do.”
We often refer to the Bible as God’s written word – His words to us concerning Himself and all His creation. That includes heaven, earth, and everything we see and cannot see. God gave us the Bible to learn more about Him and our life in this world. It is not exhaustive (though it can be exhausting at times!). It does not say everything that there is to say about everything. But it is enough. It is what God determined was enough for us to live for now.
The passage today says several things about the Scriptures:
- They are holy – set apart from this world; truly, they are out of this world!
- They impart wisdom that leads to salvation – our salvation is based on truth, not feelings/ emotion. The words of Scripture provide the true path to salvation.
- They are God-breathed – not man’s words about God, but God’s words through man.
- They are useful for teaching – the Bible is our text book for life.
- They are useful for rebuking – exposing the sin in our lives.
- They are useful for correcting – correcting wrong thinking and ideas.
- They are useful for training in righteousness – give us the necessary instructions to grow in the ways of God.
- They are able to equip anyone for every good work – they enable us to do what God created us to do – His good work.
That is a long list and a lot to consider for today. Why not take a moment and give some thought to a few of these areas:
-The Bible doesn’t just contain truths from God; it is the truth of God. It is a privilege to be able to read and hear God’s words. This is God speaking – how important can you say listening has been to you?
-How well am I applying what I learn to my life?
-What does the Bible say about specific sins in my life?
-Are my thoughts and ideas being shaped by the Bible or some other source?
-How is God’s word training me to run the race of faith?
-What impact have the Scriptures had on furnishing me with the things I need to live for Him?
Read His word. Learn from it. Grow from it. Act upon it. It is God’s truth to us.