When asked spiritual questions, let’s learn to say, “What do the Scriptures say?” This is what the Scriptures say: (1) Study and search the Scriptures (2 Tim. 2:15). (2) Seek out the true and accurate meaning of each word not just verses or chapters (John 5:39). All Scripture is inspired of God (2 Tim. 3:16). (3) Let the Holy Spirit reveal truth (John 14:26). Meditate and listen from within as you study Scriptures. Let the Holy Spirit open Scriptures as a flower blooms. I feel there are times the Holy Spirit could say, “I could do more, if you would give me more to work with.” (4) Learn why the Scriptures are written (1 John 5:13). Understand the truth of the text. Why and to whom is it written? (5) Teach true meaning of Scriptures. The world conforms us but the Word transforms us (Rom. 12:1-2). Only the truth of God’s Word will change lives eternally (John 8:32). (6) Teach and apply Bible doctrines and principles. Be careful about teaching self opinions (John 5:31). Personal philosophies can change, but Scriptures never changes. (7) Do not use portions of Scriptures to present your private or personal doctrines (2 Pet.1:20). Example: The Gospel must include three essentials, the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor.15:3-4). All three are essential for salvation. Death: He was our sacrifice for sin. Burial: He was our substitute for sin. Resurrection: He became our risen Saviour – Selah! Resurrection must also be included (Rom. 10:9). (8) Compare Scripture with Scripture. Truth never conflicts with truth. Truth confirms truth. Some say, “God said it, I believe it, and it’s so.” It is so even if you don’t believe it. (9) Scriptures are our only source of assurance, absolute, and authority (2 Tim. 3:16). The Bible is God revealing Himself in Scriptures. Today God speaks in verse not voice. (10) The Bible is the only book that reveals God and the purpose of our creation and existence (Gen. 1:1; Col.1:16-17). Books have good information, but the Bible has Godly inspiration. Bible principles always work and will always be true. Do not bend, twist, or change the true meaning, but let it bend you. Use Scriptures correctly and the Lord will correctly use you. The Word of God equips us for the work of God. No one can be saved without the Gospel – No one (Rom. 1:16). No one can spiritually grow without the Word of God – No one (1 Pet. 2:1). This is what the Scriptures say.
Time to Think: The worst mistake is the one made twice!
