01/12/14 GOD'S WORD AND SALVATION

01/12/14 GOD'S WORD AND SALVATION

Concerning salvation, God did not intend for us to become saturated with the teachings of men.
Ecclesiastes 12:12-14
(12) And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.
(13) Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
(14) For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

An honest and accurate knowledge and understanding of linguistics and history is important to knowing what the Bible says, but the roster of theologians (good and bad) is endless. Seeking out the experts and studying their teaching only makes us experts in what men say. This is why we should study the Bible and trust the Bible, rather than what men say about the Bible. God's revelation of Himself and His salvation is contained and explained in the Bible.

The believers at Berea were commended because they studied God's word.
Acts 17:11
(11) These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Paul said that knowing the Scriptures is basic to being a Christian
2 Timothy 3:15-17
(15) And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
(16) All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
(17) That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.