AUTHORITY OF SCRIPTURE
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21
READING: 2 TIMOTHY 3:16 | COLOSSIANS 3:16 | 1 TIMOTHY 3:14-15
It is difficult to overstate the importance of the Bible and its role in faith formation. Likewise, it is critically important that we emphasize correct doctrine, a proper understanding of the truths conveyed in Scripture. It is also important that we face the truth that in most evangelical circles there is a growing disconnect between belief and practice. Some spiritual writers and teachers call this — The Great Gap in the Christian experience.
How about for you and me? At what point do we begin to question whether the truths we claim to believe have taken root in our hearts and minds? Are these beliefs showing up in our daily living? Have these beliefs impacted the way we are relating, thinking, feeling, deciding? In other words, are we living life as a devoted follower of Jesus — with Him in relationship, beliefs and practices that reflect experiential knowledge of Him — or as a casual Christian with some good ideas that have little to no impact on our way of life?
As we observe the crisis of the GREAT GAP in belief and practice, let’s consider what the Bible teaches us about integration and the importance of taking in sound doctrine and its impact on our character and faith journey.
How about for you and me? At what point do we begin to question whether the truths we claim to believe have taken root in our hearts and minds? Are these beliefs showing up in our daily living? Have these beliefs impacted the way we are relating, thinking, feeling, deciding? In other words, are we living life as a devoted follower of Jesus — with Him in relationship, beliefs and practices that reflect experiential knowledge of Him — or as a casual Christian with some good ideas that have little to no impact on our way of life?
As we observe the crisis of the GREAT GAP in belief and practice, let’s consider what the Bible teaches us about integration and the importance of taking in sound doctrine and its impact on our character and faith journey.
REFLECTION | PRAYER
There are many helpful passages that can guide our thinking as we reflect on our own gaps. Take a few minutes to think about this one and make it as specific for you as you can.
Approach this exercise with prayer and an intention to surrender to what the Spirit brings to the surface.
Joshua 1:7-9
“‘Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.’”
Joshua 1:7-9 NIVUK
Approach this exercise with prayer and an intention to surrender to what the Spirit brings to the surface.
Joshua 1:7-9
“‘Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.’”
Joshua 1:7-9 NIVUK
JOURNALING PROMPTS
- Where do I need more strength and courage to live in alignment with God’s Word?
- How am I doing with obeying some of the basic things that GOD has already directed me to do?
- When was the last time I had Scripture “on my lips”? Meditated on it?
- Am I being careful to do everything written in it?
- Is this in any way connected to my level of courage or discouragement?