This is a guest post by David Brown who authors Renewed Strength. You can also Like them on Facebook. If you are interested in writing a post for us, visit our Guest Post page. You can also view other guest posts by clicking here.
Many people look to the scriptures to prove their point and win an argument about a topic they are concerned about. For example, proving a behavior is wrong or right. The problem is many people on the opposite will also use the Bible to prove their side. Does this mean that the Bible contradicts itself? Absolutely not! Without a doubt, when it comes to using the Bible, the Bible is God’s written word and as such, is perfect.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
The problem is, our misuse of the Bible, and it is easy to do if you’re not careful!
As Christian’s, we should always strive to have a closer walk with Christ. One very important part of this scripture memorization. I can remember as a kid, having lists of verses we were to memorize in Sunday school. This is a great thing for all children to learn early in life. The problem comes when us adults hear or read a verse that we feel proves or justifies something we are passionate about, and run with it. When we use specific verses (or even a part of a verse) that applies to us, without reading and understanding the context, we are no better than the news media that blows a story out of proportion. There is so much more to the Bible then a collection of important verses. We must remember to read the entire chapter or even the book to understand the verse and what is being said.
John 14:13 says, “And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” Some take this verse to mean they should get whatever they ask for. No, Jesus is not saying that He will give you the big boat, house, job, and bank account you want just because you prayed for it. Sadly there are people who think all you have to do is pray and get what you want because they never took the time to read the preceding verse “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” So if I believe in Him, go to work, and pray, I’ll get what I want? Nope, keep reading your Bible.
There are many more examples like this of single verses in the Bible being used to one’s advantage without truly understanding the context and the true meaning of God’s word. I urge everyone to strive to build a deeper understanding of the Bible and read it daily. There are even easy ways to receive Daily Bible Readings in your email for free. However you choose to read is fine, as long as you clear your mind, get quiet before God, and prayfully ask Him to guide you in growing closer to Him.
Here are other Frequently Asked Questions and how the Bible answers them.
