Is the Bible Authoritative

When we look in awe and Jesus’ life and teachings we can learn almost everything about how he wants us to live. From his parables, to the sermon on the mount, to simply observing his humility, Jesus was our perfect role model. But is the Bible, what was written both before and after Jesus really authoritative to our lives today?
Jesus Christ claimed to be God in the Flesh, and he proved his claim by rising from the dead. It is on His authority as God that we can really know that the Bible is the Word of God. You see, Jesus confirmed the Old Testament’s authority, as well as an authoritative New Testament to be the Word of God, and furthermore, promised to guide His disciples to know all truth.
Whew, okay what does that mean and where does Jesus prove/say it?
Often Jesus speaks in parables to teach, but all the time we see him reflect on scripture itself! Jesus knew God’s word inside and out and could use it for any occasion. He told people in Matthew 22:29 “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.” Or when Jesus is in the desert after fasting for 40 days and is extremely weak, the devil comes to tempt him. But with each temptation Jesus responds with “For it is written” and relies on scripture for the direction of his life and choices. As in everything, we should model Jesus in this same way. “All Scripture is God-breathed, and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The one thing we always have to fall back on to know absolute truth is the word of God.

“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12)

“Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; 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” (Joshua 1:8)

John cleared up any issues with how authoritative the word was right from the start. He said in John 1:1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” No questions asked.

Reflection

1. Can you think of/find other places where Jesus relied on scripture?
2. What does it mean/what is it referring to in 2 Timothy (above) when it says “so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work?
3. How influential is the word of God in your life now? Is it authoritative in your life?
4. What do you need to do to be like Jesus to rely on scripture for the direction of your life and choices?

Take the Next Step

How is your knowledge of God’s word? How much time do you spend getting into the words of your maker? Scripture is truth, and something to always turn to for guidance in all that we do. Let’s commit to taking a next step in our knowledge of God’s word every day, because it is where we discover who God is and who we should be.