The Role of the Bible part 1

Posted by Paul on 3/27/09 • Categorized as Reflections

Probably one of the most quoted verses from the Bible about its own role is 2 Timothy 3:16-17 which states that “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work.” People today, and throughout history, have placed the Bible in a variety of roles – some positive, some negative. The Bible has been used as a historical document, a proof-text, a guide for doctrine, road map for life and society, law book, and information storehouse. But, above all of these, the Scriptures are the Voice of God (God-breathed as some translations put it) recorded throughout history for the purpose of connecting human beings with God and shaping their character through “teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.”

I propose here that the role of Scripture in Christian spirituality and in Christian leadership is one of shaping and transforming. Indeed, the Bible is a sort of “road map”, but it is one that requires engagement, not just reading and studying. The Apostle Paul confirms that the Word of God is “living and active” and therefore inviting us into a sort of conversation. Full of life, the Bible is not a dead or stagnant document that can be studied and ultimately mastered. Rather, it must be humbly engaged with and submitted to.

District 9 release

God desires to use this Book to shape the mind, heart, will, and emotion of the reader to more deeply and truthfully reflect that of Jesus. Only when the reader submits to the Scripture and to God, will he experience deep ongoing transformation of the soul.

Part 2: Approach Matters

Yat goh hiu yan divx

Discussion: What do you think the primary role of the Bible is for Christian spiritual formation?

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  • Harvey C. kimmey
    The primary reaponse for to Christian to "the role of the Bible" is to see GOD as HE works in our lives and how we react to HIM and to others as our paths cross each other.
    We want to please HIM in all we say and do. It's the DOING that causes us the problem. Do we see in the present and ignore what we may see in the future. After all, this life even if we live to be a 100 years is very, very short in comparison to 1,000 or 10,000 years.
    We need to encourage others and especially non-believers to realize life to more that just the time we spend on the present time on earth. To the Christians, we need to show compassion when they fall down and to help them get back up and serve GOD. Many times, we continue to kick them when we need to help them by encouraging them.
    To the non-Christian: to show them that they too can turn from their sinful lives and serve Christ and HIS kingdom. We seem to want to be encouraged but lack the fortitude to encourage other who have perhaps fallen down and help them back to serving CHRIST.
    As someone once said, "No mans an island".
    Question: HOW CAN I ENCOURAGE YOU?
  • The Voice of God recorded throughout history for the purpose of connecting human beings with God and shaping their character...A roap map that requires humble engagement and submission.
    What a great way to say it, Paul! Looking forward to reading abut 'approach'...
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