Standing Firm in the Truth of Scripture

 

Summary

In Ephesians 6:14, we are called to "stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth." This passage emphasizes the necessity of being fortified with truth as the first piece of the armor of God. The Apostle Paul makes it clear that without the strength that comes from God through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, and without donning the full armor of God, we stand no chance against the devil's schemes and the spiritual forces of evil. The question then arises: what is this truth, and how do we implement this exhortation?

The modern Christian church faces a significant problem of authority, asking, "What is truth?" Unlike Pilate, we must seek this truth earnestly, recognizing that the ultimate authority is the Bible. The church, reason, philosophy, and experience, while valuable, are not the final authority. The Bible stands as the only infallible authority, a position held by the Protestant fathers after centuries of error under Rome. We must submit to the Bible utterly, without reservations, as it is as relevant today as it ever was.

The Bible's truth is ageless, mediated by the Holy Spirit, and not subject to human reason or advancement. Our task is to understand what was revealed to the Apostles, as the Bible is adequate and sufficient for every contingency. We must rejoice in this truth, for it offers hope to all, not just the learned or wise. The early church consisted mainly of common people, and God's way is not the monopoly of the intellectual elite.

The Bible provides a body of propositional truth, not just mystical experiences. It is not merely a record of spiritual experiences but contains specific teachings and doctrines. The truth can be defined, known, and used to guard ourselves. We must be clear about this, as the Bible itself claims that truth can be known and is something we can learn and teach. This truth is not subjective but is a deposit given to us, which we must hold fast and pass on to others.

Key Takeaways:

- The Bible is the ultimate authority for Christians, standing above church tradition, reason, and experience. It is infallible and sufficient for all aspects of life and faith, providing a solid foundation for truth. [02:14]

- Truth is not subjective or mystical but is a defined, propositional reality found in the Bible. This truth is something we can learn, teach, and use to guard ourselves against false teachings and spiritual deception. [25:05]

- The Bible's truth is ageless, mediated by the Holy Spirit, and not subject to human reason or advancement. It remains relevant and adequate for every contingency, offering hope to all, not just the intellectual elite. [04:49]

- Christians are called to rejoice in the truth of the Bible, as it provides hope and wisdom to all, regardless of intellectual ability. God's way is accessible to everyone, not just the learned or wise. [08:27]

- We must strive for the unity of the faith, not just institutional unity. The truth of the gospel is something we must defend and confirm, standing fast in the faith and striving together for the faith of the gospel. [32:36]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:10] - Introduction to Ephesians 6:14
- [00:29] - The Armor of God
- [01:05] - The Battle Against Evil
- [01:24] - The Importance of Truth
- [01:57] - The Problem of Authority
- [02:34] - The Bible as Ultimate Authority
- [03:39] - Submission to the Bible
- [04:11] - The Ageless Truth
- [05:20] - Understanding Apostolic Revelation
- [06:38] - Rejoicing in God's Way
- [07:25] - Hope for All
- [08:44] - The Role of the Holy Spirit
- [09:47] - The Adequacy of Scripture
- [10:14] - Defining Truth
- [11:34] - The Need for Instruction
- [12:47] - The Danger of Undefined Truth
- [13:19] - The Mystical Misunderstanding
- [14:12] - The Bible as Experience Record
- [15:16] - Misinterpretation of Scripture
- [17:30] - Existentialism and Experience
- [19:59] - The Importance of Knowing Jesus
- [21:36] - Subjective Knowledge of Christ
- [23:31] - The Danger of Subjectivity
- [24:34] - The Bible's Claim to Truth
- [25:47] - Evidence of Propositional Truth
- [27:41] - The Word as Truth
- [29:11] - The Mystery Revealed
- [30:57] - The Unity of Faith
- [32:20] - Edification Through Truth
- [34:03] - The Word of Grace
- [35:11] - The Importance of Propositional Truth
- [37:13] - Defending the Gospel
- [39:38] - The Deposit of Truth
- [42:13] - Passing on the Truth
- [44:11] - Contending for the Faith
- [45:46] - Conclusion and Benediction

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
- Ephesians 6:14
- John 8:31-32
- 2 Timothy 1:13-14

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#### Observation Questions
1. What does Ephesians 6:14 mean when it instructs us to "stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth"? How does this relate to the concept of the armor of God? [00:10]

2. According to the sermon, why is the Bible considered the ultimate authority over church tradition, reason, and experience? [02:14]

3. How does the sermon describe the role of the Holy Spirit in mediating the truth of the Bible? [04:49]

4. What is the significance of the Apostle Paul's emphasis on propositional truth in the Bible, as opposed to subjective or mystical experiences? [25:05]

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#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the sermon suggest Christians should respond to the modern problem of authority within the church? What role does the Bible play in this response? [01:57]

2. In what ways does the sermon argue that the truth of the Bible is accessible to all, not just the intellectual elite? How does this reflect the nature of the early church? [08:27]

3. How does the sermon address the danger of subjective interpretations of Jesus and the Bible? What examples are given to illustrate this point? [23:31]

4. What does the sermon suggest is the relationship between knowing the truth and being able to guard oneself against false teachings? [25:05]

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#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own understanding of the Bible as the ultimate authority. Are there areas in your life where you rely more on tradition, reason, or experience? How can you shift your focus to align more with biblical truth? [02:14]

2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of propositional truth. How can you ensure that your understanding of the Bible is based on clear, defined teachings rather than personal interpretations or feelings? [25:05]

3. Consider the role of the Holy Spirit in your life. How can you be more open to the Spirit's guidance in understanding and applying biblical truth? [04:49]

4. The sermon highlights the accessibility of God's truth to all people. How can you share this truth with those who may feel excluded or unworthy of understanding it? [08:27]

5. Think about a time when you encountered a teaching or belief that contradicted biblical truth. How did you respond, and what steps can you take to be better prepared to defend your faith in the future? [32:36]

6. How can you actively strive for the unity of the faith in your church community, as opposed to merely seeking institutional unity? What practical steps can you take to promote this unity? [32:36]

7. Identify one area in your life where you feel spiritually vulnerable. How can you use the truth of the Bible to strengthen and protect yourself in this area? [25:05]

Devotional

Day 1: The Bible as the Ultimate Authority
The Bible stands as the ultimate authority for Christians, surpassing church tradition, reason, and personal experience. It is infallible and sufficient for all aspects of life and faith, providing a solid foundation for truth. This perspective is rooted in the belief that the Bible is the inspired word of God, offering guidance and wisdom that are timeless and applicable to every situation. The Protestant Reformation emphasized this principle, rejecting the errors of relying solely on human institutions or interpretations. By submitting to the Bible, believers align themselves with a source of truth that transcends human limitations and cultural shifts. [02:14]

"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12, ESV)

Reflection: In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely on human wisdom or tradition over the authority of Scripture? How can you begin to prioritize the Bible's guidance in those areas today?


Day 2: Truth as a Defined Reality
Truth is not subjective or mystical but is a defined, propositional reality found in the Bible. This truth is something that can be learned, taught, and used to guard against false teachings and spiritual deception. The Bible provides a clear and objective standard of truth, which is essential for navigating the complexities of life and faith. By understanding and embracing this truth, believers can stand firm against the shifting sands of cultural relativism and personal opinion. The clarity and certainty of biblical truth offer a secure foundation for living a life that honors God and reflects His character. [25:05]

"Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth." (John 17:17, ESV)

Reflection: Consider a belief or opinion you hold that may not align with biblical truth. How can you seek God's guidance to align your understanding with His Word?


Day 3: The Ageless Relevance of Scripture
The Bible's truth is ageless, mediated by the Holy Spirit, and not subject to human reason or advancement. It remains relevant and adequate for every contingency, offering hope to all, not just the intellectual elite. This timeless relevance is a testament to the divine origin of Scripture, which speaks to the human condition across generations and cultures. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in illuminating the truths of the Bible, enabling believers to apply its teachings to their lives in meaningful ways. By relying on the Holy Spirit's guidance, Christians can experience the transformative power of God's Word in every aspect of their lives. [04:49]

"The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever." (Isaiah 40:8, ESV)

Reflection: How have you seen the Bible's relevance in your life recently? What steps can you take to deepen your reliance on Scripture and the Holy Spirit's guidance?


Day 4: Rejoicing in the Accessibility of God's Truth
Christians are called to rejoice in the truth of the Bible, as it provides hope and wisdom to all, regardless of intellectual ability. God's way is accessible to everyone, not just the learned or wise. This inclusivity reflects the heart of God, who desires that all people come to know Him and experience His love and grace. The early church, composed mainly of common people, exemplifies this truth, demonstrating that God's wisdom is not reserved for an intellectual elite but is available to all who seek Him. By embracing this truth, believers can find joy and confidence in their relationship with God, knowing that His wisdom is within reach. [08:27]

"For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong." (1 Corinthians 1:26-27, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt inadequate in your understanding of God. How can you embrace the truth that God's wisdom is accessible to you, regardless of your intellectual ability?


Day 5: Striving for Unity in the Faith
We must strive for the unity of the faith, not just institutional unity. The truth of the gospel is something we must defend and confirm, standing fast in the faith and striving together for the faith of the gospel. This unity is rooted in a shared commitment to the core truths of Christianity, which transcend denominational differences and personal preferences. By focusing on the essentials of the faith, believers can work together to advance the gospel and build up the body of Christ. This unity is not uniformity but a harmonious collaboration that reflects the diversity and richness of God's kingdom. [32:36]

"Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel." (Philippians 1:27, ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you contribute to the unity of the faith within your church or community? How can you prioritize the core truths of the gospel in your interactions with others?

Quotes



The Apostle Paul makes it clear that unless we are strengthened with the power that comes alone from God himself through the Lord Jesus Christ and by the spirit and in addition to put on the whole armor of God that we stand no chance no hope whatsoever in our fight against the Ws of the devil and in our wrestling with the principalities and Powers the rulers of the darkness of this world spiritual wickedness in high places. [00:36:36]

We must submit to this and submit utterly to it without any reservations the moment we begin to sit in judgment on this we've abandoned our Authority and we are again putting our own reason as the supreme authority we have to accept the Bible as it we have to accept it in its entirety we have to realize that it is as adequate today as it has ever been. [03:39:39]

It is Ageless because it is truth that man by his mind and reason can never arrive it it is again ageless because it is truth that is always mediated and brought to us by the operation of the Holy Spirit and that alone again it is Ageless the idea that we know more about God and the Lord Jesus Christ than the Apostle Paul did because we are living nearly 2,000 years after him is I think of all nonsense. [04:49:49]

If this were not the position there would be no hope for the average for the ordinary church member that is where this position is so completely ridiculous if it were men's way in which it all depends upon our and understanding our reason our brain power our ability well the gospel would be the Monopoly of a very few people and the vast majority of people who haven't got time or perhaps even the ability to read philosophy and all these wonderful books they'd have nothing at all. [06:38:38]

The Bible is nothing but men attempting to put into words the experience erience they've had of God this wonderful mystical experience and here they now try to set it out before us so they say it is of help to us it's a help to us to check the experiences that we have it's nothing more than that you don't go here for propositions you don't find in the Bible exact definitions of Truth saying it is this and it isn't no no no it's just some well some general test by which you can test yourself. [14:12:12]

The Bible itself teaches us quite plainly that truth can be defined that truth can be known that it is something with which we can guard our lines that he doesn't throw it all back onto me and my objective feeling or understanding but that I've got propositions here that I've got specific definitions that the truth is not something vague and indefinite and mystical but is something rather that is reduced to actual propositions and definitions and precise statements. [24:34:34]

I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received he delivered something and what was it what he tells us how that Christ died according to the scriptures buried according to the scriptures raised rose again according to the scriptures it's all detailed teaching and of course that's his whole argument in 1 Corinthians 15 there were people even then there's nothing new in the 20th century. [35:11:11]

Stand Fast in the faith you can't Stand Fast in a cloud can you you can't stand fast on a Feeling Stand Fast in the faith it's a rock it's a solid foundation but then think of the extraordinary things he says to the Galatians Galatians 1 I Marvel six I Marvel that he are so soon removed from him that called you un the grace of Christ unto another gospel another gospel which is not another. [36:36:36]

Hold fast he says hold fast the form of sound words sound Words which thou Hast heard of me in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus that good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Spirit which dwelleth in us now you're familiar with the fact that the true translation here is the deposit he says that deposit which was committed unto you keep yes and this deposit you see is it's a form of s s words but I do like that word deposit something has been given to him the deposit the truth the repository of the truth the scriptures and the teaching of the Apostles. [42:13:13]

Beloved when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation it was needful for me to write unto you and to exalt you that you should earnestly contend for the faith the faith this truth which was once and forever delivered and to the Saints contend for the faith and you can't do that unless you know what it is and John of course in exactly the same way teaches precisely the same truth. [44:11:11]

Thank God Isa say that the truth can be defined and that I am not just left this morning with my feeling or impression as to what Jesus is like or what Jesus would say or what Jesus would do thank God I'm not left there on the shifting sand of my experience and my understanding thank God I've got truth stated clearly defined delimited contrasted with error that I've got warnings and rebukes expositions of error as well as the delineation of the truth. [45:46:46]

Thank God that as I'm called upon and exalted to G about my lines with the truth I can now see that it is something which is possible that I can know whether I'm doing so whether I'm not not doing so in other words there is a deposit and God willing I'll try to remind you of the essence of that deposit next Sunday morning. [49:33:33]

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Transcript
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