Message from Scripture: 2/17/2021

Today our message from Scripture comes from Jude 1:3. “Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.”

When we speak of New Testament Christianity, we’re speaking of the authority God and His Word have in our lives.  We live in a world where everything is viewed as being subjective, where the ultimate authority for many is oneself.   Such a view has led to a distorted understanding about the role of Scripture in one’s life, and what a proper response to it should be.  Many use Scripture to legitimatize their desires, but are not willing to go to Scripture to allow God to mold their desires in Him.  New Testament Christianity has still to be discovered and lived by many.

Does doctrine matter?  Of course it does!  God’s will isn’t subject to humanity’s whims; it has been once for all delivered (Jude 1:3).  Only by allowing Scripture to be authoritative in one’s life can God accomplish His good will in us, to make us “thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17).  God takes His Word very seriously, and so should we (Rev. 22:18-19).

Why does doctrine matter?  Only correct doctrine produces a correct lifestyle.  “Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 1:13). 

By holding fast to the pattern of sound words found in Scripture, can one be a pattern in Christian living.  “In all things, show yourself to be a pattern of good works…” (Titus 2:7).  Only Scripture can equip us for eternity.  Spend time in the word of God, and you will better understanding His will for eternal life. Have a great day today. God bless.

Robert