The Unbreakable Authority of Scripture in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound significance of Scripture and its unbreakable nature as affirmed by Jesus Christ. We began by acknowledging that every breath we take is a gift from God, and thus, our praise is a natural response to His grace. This led us to delve into the authenticity and authority of Scripture, contrasting the views of Thomas Jefferson, who selectively edited the Bible, with the holistic view that Jesus held. Jefferson's approach was to remove the supernatural elements, focusing only on ethical teachings, which reflects a deistic view of God—one who is distant and uninvolved. In contrast, Jesus affirmed the entirety of Scripture, including its supernatural aspects, as the unalterable Word of God.
We examined how Jesus used Scripture to validate His identity and mission, particularly in John 10, where He references Psalm 82 to assert His divine authority. Jesus' miracles and teachings were not just acts of compassion but also proofs of His divine nature and the authenticity of Scripture. He emphasized that Scripture cannot be set aside, nullified, or broken, underscoring its completeness and truth.
We also looked at various instances where Jesus affirmed the Old Testament narratives, such as the creation story, the flood, and Jonah's ordeal, which modern critics often dismiss as myths. Jesus' affirmation of these stories highlights the importance of accepting Scripture in its entirety, not selectively.
Furthermore, we discussed the role of Scripture in our lives today. It is not merely a set of moral guidelines but a divine tool for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. Scripture equips us for every good work, bringing us into a deeper relationship with God and guiding us toward holiness. We are called to trust and follow the Word of God, recognizing its divine origin and transformative power.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Unbreakable Nature of Scripture: Jesus affirmed that Scripture cannot be set aside or nullified. This means that every part of the Bible, including the supernatural elements, is essential and true. We must accept the entirety of Scripture as the Word of God, not selectively choose what to believe. [56:42]
2. Jesus' Affirmation of Old Testament Narratives: Jesus validated the Old Testament stories, such as the creation, the flood, and Jonah's ordeal, which modern critics often dismiss. By affirming these narratives, Jesus emphasized the importance of accepting Scripture in its entirety, not as a collection of myths but as divine truth. [01:02:46]
3. Scripture as a Tool for Holiness: The Bible is not just a set of moral guidelines but a divine tool for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. It equips us for every good work and brings us into a deeper relationship with God, guiding us toward holiness. [01:05:03]
4. The Danger of Selective Belief: Thomas Jefferson's approach to Scripture, where he removed supernatural elements and focused only on ethical teachings, reflects a deistic view of God. This selective belief undermines the authority and completeness of Scripture, leading to a diluted faith. [01:09:54]
5. Trusting the Divine Origin of Scripture: We must trust that all Scripture is God-breathed and not merely human interpretations. This trust in the divine origin of Scripture allows us to center our lives around its teachings, leading to a life of joy, peace, and contentment. [01:07:24]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[32:44] - Introduction: The Breath of God
[33:42] - The Unbreakable Nature of Scripture
[34:36] - Jesus' Affirmation of Old Testament Narratives
[35:25] - The Role of Judges in Israel
[36:12] - Jesus' Miracles as Proof of His Divinity
[37:09] - The Authority of Jesus
[45:10] - The Danger of Selective Belief
[45:59] - Trusting the Divine Origin of Scripture
[46:45] - Scripture as a Tool for Holiness
[47:36] - The Joy of Following God's Word
[48:44] - The Jefferson Bible: A Cautionary Tale
[49:36] - Deism vs. Theism
[50:34] - Authentic Faith and Scripture
[51:38] - Jesus' View of Scripture
[52:54] - Jesus Challenges the Pharisees
[53:36] - The Hypocrisy of the Pharisees
[54:25] - Jesus' Authority and Miracles
[55:40] - The Unalterable Word of God
[56:42] - Conclusion: Trust and Follow the Word of God
[01:14:50] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. John 10:31-42
2. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
3. Matthew 24:37-39
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Jesus mean when He says, "Scripture cannot be set aside"? ([56:42])
2. How does Jesus use Psalm 82 to assert His divine authority in John 10? ([54:25])
3. What are some Old Testament narratives that Jesus affirmed, according to the sermon? ([01:02:46])
4. What does 2 Timothy 3:16-17 say about the purpose of Scripture?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Jesus affirmed the entirety of Scripture, including its supernatural elements? ([56:42])
2. How does Jesus' affirmation of Old Testament stories challenge modern critics who dismiss them as myths? ([01:02:46])
3. What does it mean for Scripture to be a "divine tool for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness"? ([01:05:03])
4. How does the sermon contrast Thomas Jefferson's selective belief with Jesus' holistic view of Scripture? ([49:36])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you found it difficult to accept a part of Scripture. How did you handle it, and what can you learn from Jesus' affirmation of the entire Bible? ([56:42])
2. Jesus used Scripture to validate His identity and mission. How can you use Scripture to affirm your faith and identity in Christ? ([54:25])
3. The sermon mentioned the danger of selective belief. Are there parts of the Bible you tend to ignore or downplay? How can you work on accepting the entirety of Scripture? ([49:36])
4. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 states that Scripture equips us for every good work. Identify a specific area in your life where you need correction or training. How can you use Scripture to address it?
5. Jesus affirmed the creation story, the flood, and Jonah's ordeal. How does this influence your view of these narratives, and how can you defend their authenticity in conversations with skeptics? ([01:02:46])
6. The sermon emphasized trusting the divine origin of Scripture. How can you deepen your trust in the Bible's divine inspiration in your daily life? ([01:07:24])
7. Think of a specific way you can use Scripture this week to teach, rebuke, correct, or train someone in righteousness. How will you approach this task? ([01:05:03])
Devotional
Day 1: The Unbreakable Nature of Scripture
Description: Jesus affirmed that Scripture cannot be set aside or nullified. This means that every part of the Bible, including the supernatural elements, is essential and true. We must accept the entirety of Scripture as the Word of God, not selectively choose what to believe. Jesus' unwavering stance on the authority of Scripture is a call for us to trust in its completeness and truth. He used Scripture to validate His identity and mission, emphasizing that it is the unalterable Word of God. This trust in the divine origin of Scripture allows us to center our lives around its teachings, leading to a life of joy, peace, and contentment. [56:42]
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV): "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."
Reflection: In what ways have you been selective in your belief and application of Scripture? How can you begin to trust and follow the entirety of God's Word today?
Day 2: Jesus' Affirmation of Old Testament Narratives
Description: Jesus validated the Old Testament stories, such as the creation, the flood, and Jonah's ordeal, which modern critics often dismiss. By affirming these narratives, Jesus emphasized the importance of accepting Scripture in its entirety, not as a collection of myths but as divine truth. This affirmation challenges us to view the Bible as a cohesive and authoritative text, where every story and teaching holds significance. Jesus' reference to these narratives underscores their relevance and truth, encouraging us to delve deeper into the Old Testament with a renewed sense of trust and reverence. [01:02:46]
Matthew 12:40 (ESV): "For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth."
Reflection: How do you view the Old Testament stories? Are there any narratives you struggle to believe? How can Jesus' affirmation of these stories strengthen your faith in the entire Bible?
Day 3: Scripture as a Tool for Holiness
Description: The Bible is not just a set of moral guidelines but a divine tool for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. It equips us for every good work and brings us into a deeper relationship with God, guiding us toward holiness. Scripture's role in our lives is transformative, shaping our character and actions to align with God's will. By engaging with the Word of God, we are continually refined and prepared for the good works He has planned for us. This process of sanctification is essential for our spiritual growth and maturity. [01:05:03]
Hebrews 4:12 (ESV): "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."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need teaching, rebuking, correcting, or training? How can you allow Scripture to guide you toward holiness in these areas?
Day 4: The Danger of Selective Belief
Description: Thomas Jefferson's approach to Scripture, where he removed supernatural elements and focused only on ethical teachings, reflects a deistic view of God. This selective belief undermines the authority and completeness of Scripture, leading to a diluted faith. By picking and choosing what to believe, we risk creating a version of Christianity that suits our preferences rather than submitting to the full counsel of God's Word. This approach can lead to a shallow and incomplete understanding of God's nature and His plans for us. We are called to embrace the entirety of Scripture, trusting in its divine inspiration and authority. [01:09:54]
Revelation 22:18-19 (ESV): "I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book, and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book."
Reflection: Have you ever found yourself selectively believing parts of the Bible? What steps can you take to embrace the full authority and completeness of Scripture in your life?
Day 5: Trusting the Divine Origin of Scripture
Description: We must trust that all Scripture is God-breathed and not merely human interpretations. This trust in the divine origin of Scripture allows us to center our lives around its teachings, leading to a life of joy, peace, and contentment. Recognizing the Bible as the inspired Word of God means that we approach it with reverence and a willingness to be transformed by its truths. This trust is foundational for our faith, as it shapes our understanding of God's character, His promises, and His instructions for living a godly life. By grounding ourselves in the divine origin of Scripture, we can navigate life's challenges with confidence and hope. [01:07:24]
2 Peter 1:20-21 (ESV): "Knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit."
Reflection: Do you fully trust that the Bible is the inspired Word of God? How can this trust influence your daily decisions and actions? What changes can you make to center your life more around Scripture?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "I've got to tell you, people that I meet all over the world, when I meet Christians, true, God-fearing, God-loving Christians who see God's Word the way that it is, they seem to be the most happy. They seem to be the most fulfilled. They seem to be the most centered. Why is that if Scripture is supposed to beat us around like a club trying to keep us in line? What I see in Christians is walking in joyfulness. Right? Walking in the joy of the Lord. Walking in contentment. Walking in the peace of the Lord." [01:05:45] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light to my path. When we follow God's word, we stay on the right path. Psalm 119.9-11, How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. Not against your word, but according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you. Let me not wander from your commandments. I have stored up your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. See what the power of the word is? It keeps us in right standing and keeps us from straying away from God." [01:13:37] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God wants us to trust what Scriptures say about the Word. Jesus is the Word. We have to remember that, right? 1 John, one of the sermon series that we did, in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God, who came flesh and dwelt among us, talking about Jesus. Jesus is the Word. He is the manifestation of the Word. He is the fulfillment of the Word. But we're called as people to trust what Scripture says about the Word of God." [01:04:23] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "What we need to understand is that authentic faith is viewing Scripture from the same perspective as Jesus. If we want to have authentic faith, I think it would make sense for us to drill down and say, okay, what does Jesus believe about Scripture?" [51:38] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "He shows us what He's trying to do. He's trying to rebuke us at times when we need to be rebuked. He wants to correct us. He wants to correct us at times when we need correcting. But He wants to train us in righteousness. Why? Not so that we can walk around feeling guilty. Not so that we can walk around with somebody beating us over the head with how sinful we are. That's not His goal. He wants to equip us for what? For every good work. He wants us to train us up in righteousness." [01:05:03] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The word of God is something that is used, a tool that is used to bring us into reconciliation with God. If we miss that, if we miss that Scripture is calling us into a holiness that God defines, then that's when we fall into the Thomas Jefferson views or these other views where, well, if it's telling us what good is, then culture can determine what good is. That's not the way it works. God determines what holiness is, and Scripture is used to draw us into holiness. that's the reason God gives us this Scripture, so that we know what His holiness looks like." [01:00:42] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We need to stay faithful to Scripture. We cannot be drawn away by theologians that are telling us something contrary to what the word of God says. We can't be drawn in by people who at one time were preaching truth but have discovered a new gospel. We have to be very wary about those types of things. We need to be watching and praying for those things. But there is fruit in following the word of God." [01:12:56] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We need to understand what the word of God is, but we also need to follow the word of God. We need to have a proper understanding of Scripture, and we need to see it the way that Jesus sees it. Here's a warning from Galatians 1, 6 through 9. I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel. That's what we see happening in our culture. A lot of people turning to a different gospel." [01:12:15] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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