Sometimes in a Bible discussion a passage is read and the question is asked, “What does that say (or mean) to you?” Perhaps this could be viewed as an urging to take what is being read personally, which is definitely what we ought to do. Rather than reading the Scriptures while thinking only of how they might apply to others, there is the need to look into that mirror for the soul (note James 1:22-25), see how our own life compares with it, and be willing to make necessary changes. Still, a better beginning question would simply be, “What does that say?”
It has been stated, “Let us start reading our Bible with the thought that God means exactly what He says.” (A. W. Tozer) Though I may not fully understand everything in the Scriptures, this is to humbly be my aim as I read.
As Peter referenced the things he had taught as an eyewitness of Jesus’ ministry and exaltation (2 Peter 1:16-18), he went on to state. . .
“(19)And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, (20) knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. (21) 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.” (2 Peter 1:19-21 ESV)
And in the second letter to Timothy, Paul wrote. . .
“(16) All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, (17) that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV)
God’s Word is for our benefit, but we will not get the full benefit of growing toward spiritual maturity and being duly equipped for engaging in the good works of God if we pick and choose only what we want to accept. Certainly we need to take into consideration the where, the when, the to whom, and the complete context of sections of Scripture. However, it is never the Scriptures but our own life which is to be changed! May we surrender to allowing God’s Word to fulfill the purpose for which He sent it (Isaiah 55:11) to take place in our own life!
Have a great day OPEN TO THE FULL BENEFIT OF GOD’S WORD!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
