Faith forum: Is the Bible the sole authority for a faithful life?

God’s message through Scriptures should be taken literally

The Rev. Pieter Willems, senior pastor, Mustard Seed Christian Fellowship, 700 Wakarusa Drive:

The answer to that question is a resounding, yes! For every Christian who desires to live a life that is truly pleasing to God, the Bible is the blueprint. Why? Because we believe that it is God’s word. “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

In today’s culture, we have fallen prey to political correctness and the false idea that all lifestyle choices should be accepted under the umbrella of love. The truth is that God has very definite ideas about what is the right way to live and what is the wrong way. Culture does not change God’s mind. His truths are eternal. Scripture teaches us what type of life will please God. It communicates God’s expectations so that we will not be ashamed of how we have lived when we face him at the end of our lives.

Lastly, we cannot live up to the standards of Scripture in our own abilities or effort. When I realize how far short I fall of his expectations, I can humbly confess my sins and weaknesses and ask Jesus Christ to come and take control of my life. Once I have the power of Christ living in me, I have the power to begin the journey of my life being changed to reflect the truth of Scripture.

After all, it is me who needs to conform to God’s truth, not he to mine.

– Send e-mail to Pieter Willems at pieterjw@sunflower.com.

Like any kind of study, social, cultural contexts necessary

Rod Hinkle, pastor, North Lawrence Christian Church, 647 Elm St.:

Yes. Properly understood, Scripture is our authority for living the Christian life. Scripture is inspired by God; so we can trust it conveys the will of God and can be understood by those who truly desire to obey his will. God, the Holy Spirit, uses the Scripture to plant understanding in the heart of the seeker. And the Holy Spirit gives power to the believer to practice what is truly learned.

Study of the Scripture is similar to any other kind of study. There are rules of language that lead to understanding. What does this sentence or word mean in its context? How is its teaching balanced by other passages? Is the language figurative (symbolic) or literal? If it is figurative, what does it symbolize? What did the passage mean to its original listeners or readers, that is, what was the social or cultural context to which it applied? How should the teachings in the passage be applied now? How can I apply them?

As you will discover, if you don’t already know, the Christian faith is a together faith. All Scripture will be better understood and practiced in a fellowship of believers committed to each other, to the Lord Jesus Christ and to his word. As the Apostle Paul put it, “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22).

Yes, the Scriptures are the Christian’s sole authority on how to live the life of faith along with others who love the Lord.

– Send e-mail to Rod Hinkle at preachrod45@aol.com.