Word Study
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Purpose Establish the scriptures as the standard for our lives |
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Some Facts About The Bible »» Greatest selling book in history »» 66 books (39 in Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament) »» Written over period of about 1500 years »» Written by 40+ authors with various backgrounds (shepherd, fisherman, king, doctor,theologian, tax collector, etc.) »» Contains dozens of prophecies that have been fulfilled »» Historically accurate |
Wise for salvation – The Bible teaches us how to find salvation.
God-breathed – The Bible is from God himself, communicated through chosen men (Paul, John, Luke, etc.).
Equipped for every good work – Scripture should be used to teach, correct, rebuke and train us in every aspect of our life: marriage, parenting, righteousness, decision-making, relationships, etc.
Alive and active – The Bible applies to our lives today as it did when written.
It judges – The Word reveals our heart, our motivations, and our attitudes.
Uncovered and laid bare – God can see everything in our hearts.
Rules taught by men – Many grow up learning and practicing religious tradition, some
which contradict scripture (they are “in vain”).
Scripture first – Following scripture is more important than honouring tradition.
Hearts are far from me – God wants our hearts, not just lip service. Insisting on following
traditions that break God’s commands show that our hearts are far from him.
Q: What qualities listed here made the Bereans noble?
–– Eagerness – They were eager to hear God’s word.
–– Examined daily – they looked thoroughly at scripture daily.
–– Pursuit of truth – They did not just accept what the religious leaders were saying; they checked the scriptures themselves.
Take the “Berean Challenge” and imitate these three characteristics:
Be eager to learn
Examine God’s Word daily
Search for truth
The Word became flesh – Jesus was the living Word of God in the flesh.
Hold to Jesus’ teachings – We are expect to “abide” in Jesus teachings.
Truth will set you free – Jesus’ teachings are a source of truth and freedom.
»» I did not come to judge the world – Jesus came to bring hope, grace, and God’s word to a lost world.
»» There is a judge for the one who does not accept my words – We are allowed to make our decisions now. Judgment will come at the last day. Jesus’ words will be the standard.
»» The Father commanded me to say – Jesus’ words are God’s words. They speak in unison.
»» His command leads to eternal life – The hope in following God’s word is salvation.
Are you willing to:
Q: Accept the Bible as the standard for your life?
Q: Humbly let the Bible expose your heart and make necessary changes?
Q: Eagerly study God’s word everyday?
Challenge – Start reading the gospel of Mark.
FURTHER STUDY
»»The Word of God is flawless.
»»The Bible gives us tremendous wisdom.
»»The Bible is worthy of deep respect.
»»Obedience to the Word is our solid foundation.
»»Faith is developed by reading the Word of God.
»»We are born again through the Word of God.