It has been noted, “The church does not determine what the Bible teaches. The Bible determines what the church must teach.”
Writing to Timothy, Paul stated. . .
“(14) I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, (15) if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth.” (1 Timothy 3:14-15 ESV)
The Greek word translated “pillar” is “stulos”, which referred to a column supporting the weight of a building and was used metaphorically of those of position in the church (i.e. Galatians 2:9) but also of the responsibility of the church itself as noted in the text above. The word translated “buttress” is “hedraiōma” which was a support, bulwark, stay (from “hedraios”, steadfast, firm; from “hedra”, a seat). [drawn from W.E. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words.]
The truth remains the truth whether it is accepted or not! Charles Spurgeon is quoted as saying, “The Word of God is like a lion. You don’t have to defend a lion. All you have to do is let the lion loose and the lion will defend itself.”
The truth has been established by God, and it can stand on its own! Frequently, as I study with two groups at a State correctional facility each Wednesday evening and share a lesson once a month at our County Jail, I will hold up my Bible and state, “This is the authority, not me!” It is there we turn together to learn the truth God has preserved to guide us. As we stand firmly on the truth of God’s Word it then rests with us to support it as it is.
In Proverbs we read. . .
“(5) Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.” (Proverbs 30:5 ESV)
What God has preserved and foretold will prove true. Therefore, may we remain true to His Word that others may come to know and be guided by it as well!
Have a great day REMAINING TRUE TO THE TRUTH!
Carl
