Why You Can Depend on God's Word (2)

'...The Word of God which...effectively works in you...' 1 Thessalonians 2:13 NKJV

Observe two things:

(1) God's Word is inspired. 

Chuck Swindoll writes: 'We've no problem with the Giver of truth...but wasn't the truth corrupted when He relayed it through sinful men?

This is the perfect moment to get acquainted with revelation, inspiration and illumination.

Revelation occurred when God gave His truth, inspiration when writers received and recorded it, and illumination when we understand and apply it. Your confidence in the Bible is directly related to your confidence in its inspiration.

How can we be sure it's error-free and trustworthy? 

Paul provides help answering this question:
"All Scripture is inspired by God...for teaching...showing people what is wrong in their lives... correcting faults, and for teaching how to live right" (2 Timothy 3:16 NCV). When God revealed His truth to human writers He "breathed out" His Word. When we dictate a letter we "breathe out a message" and someone else types it.

So did the writers simply take dictation?

If you know much about the Bible you realise...Peter doesn't sound like John. John doesn't sound like David. Somehow each writer's personality was preserved without corrupting the text...That rules out the idea of dictation.

Peter says, "...No...Scripture ever came from the prophet's own understanding, or...human initiative...[They] were moved by the Holy Spirit, and...spoke from God" (2 Peter 1:20-21 NLT).

That answers that question!

(2) It'll hold you up.

When you go through chaotic experiences, God's Word gives you stability.
No other counsel will get you through the long haul.
No other truth will help you stand firm in storms of doubt and uncertainty.
No other reality will give you the strength you need each day.'

Soul Food: Lev 13:38 - 14:57, Matt 5:38-48, Ps 3, Pr 1:29-31

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Thursday, 9 January 2014

APPS available here

Why You Can Depend on God's Word (1)

'...Your Word is truth.' John 17:17 NIV

When your 'back is against the wall', where can you turn to find strength?
Awash in a sea of moral and ethical questions, where can you go to find a reliable compass?

Chuck Swindoll says:

'There can be no more reliable authority than God's Word. 

This timeless, trustworthy source holds the key that unlocks life's mysteries. It alone provides us with the shelter we need in times of storm.'



Why does it qualify as our final authority? 

(1) God's Word is Truth. 

Jesus said as He prayed to the Father, 'Your word is truth.' Real truth you can rely on...that'll never shrivel up...turn sour...backfire or mislead...That's what the Bible's about... it provides us with the constant and the needed support. 

(2) God's Book is God's voice. 

Paul writes, 'You received the Word of God...not as the word of men, but as...the Word of God, which...effectively works in you who believe' (1 Thessalonians 2:13 NKJV).  

Consider it this way: if the Lord were to return to earth and speak, His message would tie in exactly with what you see in Scripture - His opinion, counsel, commands, desires, and warnings. When you rely on God's voice you have a sure foundation...truth that can be trusted...power that imparts new life and releases grace by which you can grow in faith and commitment. 

(3) God's Word endures. 

There are only two eternal things on earth today: people and God's Word. Everything else will ultimately be burned up...stuff we place on the shelf, things we put frames around, trophies and whatnots we shine and love to show off...all headed for the final bonfire (2 Peter 3:7-12 NKJV). 

God's Book 'stands forever' (1 Peter 1:25 NIV).

Soul Food: Lev 11:1 - 13:37, Matt 5:27-37, Ps 42:6-11, Pr 1:24-28

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Wednesday, 8 January 2014

APPS available here