Reading the Bible: Part Three by Ps Michael Podhaczky

Our generation would appear to have a problem with authority. So, as part of this matter of reading the Bible, it can be asked: “Where does the Bible get its authority?” The Bible’s authority is based on infallibility (it is never at fault, but totally trustworthy). In fact, the whole Bible as God’s Word is authoritative for us at all times. It is the final authority of truth, life, and faith for the Christ-follower. It remains the Word of God for the nation of Israel and Christ-followers up to today as timeless truth. It is important to grasp the truth that the Bible is the ultimate, absolute and authoritative Word of God. Peter (in 2 Pet 3:16), understood Paul’s writings to be God’s Word, calling it “Scripture” - (2 Pet 3:14-18). In light of this Paul said that,

¹⁶ “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realise what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. ¹⁷ God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work” (2 Tim 3:16-17 NLT).

Its relevance may be questioned, suggesting that it is irrelevant and outdated, but this is not the case. It has been pointed out,

“How do we know that Scripture is the Word of God? How do we know this with that total conviction that brings the child of God into humble submission to the Word? How do we know this truth so that we are willing to lay down our lives for it? Because some skilled and knowledgeable redaction critic has proved it with an involved argument from literary and historical sources? God forbid. We know this by faith. Faith believes the Scriptures and the testimony of the Scriptures. Faith alone bows in humble submission to God’s Word.”[1]

The Bible does not need anyone to give it their authoritative backing. On the contrary, God’s Word is the ultimate, reliable and trustworthy foundation for the Christ-follower’s faith and teaching for life. It has been stated,

“…the normative authority of Holy Scripture is the authority of God Himself and is attested by Jesus Christ, the Lord of the Church.”[2]

The supernatural transforming and authoritative Word of God in the control of the Holy Spirit and as read and studied by the Christ-follower, can guide to salvation those who are unsaved, sanctify and transform lives.

Pause in His presence for a moment and think this over…

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[1] Hanko, Herman C. “Issues in Hermeneutics.” http://www.prca.org/articles/issues_in_hermeneutics.html (16^th November 2017).

[2] “Chicago Statement on Biblical Hermeneutics: Article 1.” http://www.bible-researcher.com/chicago2.html (16^th November 2017). Cf. also “The Supernatural Origin of Biblical Texts.” http://www.bereanpublishers.com/the-supernatural-origin-of-biblical-texts/ (16^th November 2017).