The Unchanging Authority of Scripture
The Path to Christian Maturity
The Unchanging Authority of Scripture
The Path to Christian Maturity
In the realm of Christian faith, the warning against altering the sacred texts reverberates through the books of Deuteronomy, Proverbs, and Revelation. "Ye shall not add unto the word" (Deuteronomy 4:2) is a resolute command that underscores the unchanging authority of Scripture—a theme integral to the journey of Christian maturity.
The Unwavering Warning in Deuteronomy
In Deuteronomy, Moses delivers a straightforward directive: "Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it" (Deuteronomy 4:2). This uncompromising stance emphasizes the gravity of adhering to the given word without alterations. The authority of God's Word is depicted as complete and unassailable, requiring no human embellishments or subtractions.
Proverbs: Purity of God's Word
The Proverbs echo this sentiment, emphasizing the purity of God's words: "Every word of God is pure" (Proverbs 30:5). Here, the authority of Scripture serves as a shield for those who trust in its unadulterated wisdom. The Proverbs caution against distorting the divine message, highlighting the role of Scripture as an unwavering guide. Here is the same admonition, do not add unto the Word (Proverbs 30:6).
Revelation's Final Warning
The theme reaches its zenith in Revelation 22:18-19, where a stern declaration warns against adding to or taking away from the words of the book. The consequences for tampering with this sacred text are severe, emphasizing the need for utmost reverence. Revelation underscores the unchanging authority of Scripture as the final revelation.
Christian Maturity: A Paradigm Shift
The transition to Christian maturity involves a significant paradigm shift: "Christian maturity is when we stop using our experience to interpret the Word of God and begin allowing the Word of God to interpret our experience." This shift reflects a deepening humility that accompanies spiritual growth. It signifies a recognition that human experiences, though valuable, should be interpreted in light of God's unchanging and authoritative Word.
Aligning with the Unchanging
Christian maturity entails aligning with the enduring truths found in the Bible. The warnings against altering Scripture become foundational principles in the believer's approach. As individuals mature in their faith, they move beyond subjective interpretations influenced by personal experiences. Instead, they submit their understanding, beliefs, and experiences to the scrutiny and guidance of Scripture.
Conclusion
The unchanging authority of Scripture is a thread woven through every chapter of the Bible. From the resolute warnings in Deuteronomy to the purity of God's words in Proverbs and the final admonition in Revelation, the message is clear: God's Word is complete and unassailable. Christian maturity, then, is a transformational journey that involves a humble submission to the unchanging authority of the sacred texts. As believers navigate life's complexities, they do so through the lens of God's Word, seeking wisdom and guidance from the one source that remains constant amidst life's ebb and flow.
THEN PLEASE EXPLAIN YOUR FALSE TEACHING TONY...
Funny thing that you write about this subject...especially when in your own words...you teach that the Holy Spirit has nothing to do with helping Christians understand, receive knowledge, and discern the Word of God.
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in Christian belief for understanding and discerning the Word of God as presented in the Bible. Here are a few key scriptures that highlight this role:
John 14:26 (NIV): "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." This verse speaks to the Holy Spirit's role as a teacher and reminder of Jesus' teachings.
1 Corinthians 2:10-12 (NIV): "The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us." This passage emphasizes the Holy Spirit's unique ability to comprehend and communicate the depths of God's thoughts and intentions.
2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV): "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." While this verse doesn't mention the Holy Spirit explicitly, it ties in with the belief that the Holy Spirit, as part of the Trinity, is involved in the inspiration of Scripture.
Ephesians 1:17 (NIV): "I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better." This verse links the Holy Spirit with wisdom and revelation, essential for understanding God better.
1 John 2:27 (NIV): "As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and is true and is not a lie, just as it has taught you, remain in him." This highlights the idea that the Holy Spirit's anointing enables believers to understand the truth independently.
These scriptures collectively underscore the belief in Christianity that the Holy Spirit is a guide, teacher, and revealer of the truths contained in the Bible, aiding believers in their understanding and discernment of God's Word.
BUT...according to YOU....the Holy Spirit does NOT help us. Hmmmmm
There are many here that would disagree with you.