January 2, 2022

START HERE: THE POWER OF THE WORD

January 02, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

On New Year’s Day, many people resolve to change behavior patterns that need to be adjusted or eliminated, while other people have learned by experience that they will not carry such resolves through. Can you share if you have made some resolutions that began this week?

 

People who are in the financial world will tell you that it is only by constantly handling genuine money that a counterfeit bill can be spotted quickly. The same is true with our beliefs. To know Scripture well will enable us to recognize false teachers or false doctrines which are so rampant in today’s world. This past Sunday we will look at the authority of the Word of God and consider its power, its function, and guide for living. The words of Scripture are necessary when you are fighting in the spiritual realm (Eph. 6:17). Knowledge of God’s word is necessary if you want to lead someone to Christ (1 Thess. 2:13). We have in our hands a book that was “God-breathed” and has lasted through all generations since the time of Moses. Today we will look at some of the reasons this book is so powerful and living.

 

Focal Passage: Hebrews 4:12, 2 Timothy 3 16-17.

           

 THE POWER OF THE WORD

  • Read Hebrews 4:12. As you read the first phrase of this verse, what is the significance of the first three words from Genesis 1:3, 6, 9? Read Mark 4:39. Does God require anything except His spoken word to create, exercise authority, etc.? How would you explain to an unbeliever that the Bible is “living”? What are some of the examples of power from the Scriptures?
  • The Bible is also inerrant. What does this mean? With various translations and versions available that differ, how can we say that the Bible has no error?
  • What is meant by “infallible”? What is so special about the scrolls that have been found over the past centuries?
  • Which is more important, what we believe and think is true, or what the Bible says? How do you line up your beliefs with God’s word?

Read what it says

  • Read 2 Tim 3:16a. What is meant by the “inspiration” of the Bible? If this is true (and it is), how will you be able to please God if you ignore reading and knowing the Bible, or assuming a sermon on Sunday will be all you need?
  • Read 2 Tim 2:15. What are some of the keywords in this verse? What is the basic intent of this verse? Is it a priority for you to read your Bible? Why or why not?
  • How can you find the will of God for your life? Is it in Scripture? As you read your Bible this year, will you find His will if you write down every reference (as in 1 Thess. 4:3, 5:18)? How can you learn what God wants from you unless you spend time in His word?

Learn what it means

  • Read 2 Tim 3:16b. What is meant by doctrine? What are some major doctrines that are non-negotiables when you look for a church home?
  • What is reproof from a Scriptural point of view? If you are familiar with God’s word on a certain activity, are you likely to engage in it if you know it’s wrong? Why not? If you are not sure what God says, why are you more likely to get carried away by false teaching? Where can that eventually lead you?

 

Put it into practice

  • Read 2 Tim 3:16c. What is meant by “instruction in righteousness”? Read 2 Peter 1:3. What is the way through which this information will come to us? Does this mean that whatever question we have will probably be answered in God’s word?
  • Read James 4:17. What excuse does this verse give you to not be of service to God? Read Psalm 119:11. Why is memorization so important?

 

Close

Were you one of those who raised your hand this past Sunday at the end of the church service, indicating you commit to reading a portion of Scripture every day during the coming year? What did you have in mind when you raised your hand—a verse, a chapter, a certain amount of time? Do you hope to read the Bible through in 2022?

If you had to commit to eating every day this coming year or doing something you enjoy, you wouldn’t have hesitated!. The truth is, many people believe the Bible to be boring or unnecessary. It is only when the people within the chapters come to life as real persons, with real problems, temptations, or crises just like you, that they begin to be seen as someone you can learn from. Questions regarding situational ethics may always arise, but it’s helpful to stop at that point, seek out a commentary by a solid Christian, and try to figure out what is meant.  Technology in this modern-day can make the Bible much more meaningful than a hundred years ago, by using sites designed to give original meanings.* Whatever it takes, make it a priority! You will never be convinced of God’s will for your life until you read it in the Bible. Keep a notebook handy, and write out your progress—you will be amazed at the growth in your spiritual life.

God didn’t give us the Bible so that we would be bored. Consider it His love letter to you, filled, as Peter wrote, with everything that you will need to live a life of peace and godliness, but it is through the knowledge of Him who has called you that that knowledge will come. Make this year count. If you know the Bible well, pick a topic that perhaps will cause you to concentrate harder as you read: the names of God, the prayers of those within the books, situations that you question (i.e., why did Jacob not recognize Leah the night of their marriage??), or any topic that will spark your interest as you read. Most of all, remember it is living! It may speak to you this year differently than it did last year, just because your circumstances have changed. Remember your commitment and read it with purpose every day.

 

*www.biblegateway.com; www.blueletterbible.org.

 

 

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