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“In the past, God spoke to our forefathers by the prophets at many times and in many ways. In these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed Heir of all things…”
(Hebrews 1:1-2)
Part One
In the Old Testament our loving Creator faithfully communicated with mankind through His prophets. However, at the appointed time He spoke to us through His eternal – Son. Since Pentecost, He has guided us by His Spirit and given us enduring spiritual knowledge through His – Word. Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” (Matthew 24:35)
The Lord used the Scriptures to present His will and judge “… the thoughts and attitudes of our hearts…” (Hebrews 4:12b). The apostle Paul described this process of divine revelation – reminding us that “…all scripture is God breathed…” (2 Timothy 3:16a). He went on to explain that God’s instruction was given to us – to establish our faith and for the purpose of “…teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16b)
Part Two
We were never instructed to trust – our fickle emotions. Instead we were told to trust in God. The Bible says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) His instructions are not subject to humanity’s everchanging feelings, philosophies, and finite knowledge. The Bible contains God’s seamless message of love, purity, and fulfilling purpose. His precepts are designed to prepare us for living abundant rewarding lives. His instruction also equips us for a lifestyle of making calm wise decisions.
God’s values are mankind’s moral compass directing us toward His highest and best use of each day that we are privileged to live. Because of His promised self-revelation when His “…Word became flesh and dwelt among us…” (John 1:14) the Psalmist was also guided to write, “Your Word is a lamp for (our) feet and a light for (our) path.” (Psalm 119:105)
Part Three
Jesus declared, “…All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” (Matthew 28:18) His divine authority will remain unchanged because He is – “…the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) He lovingly said, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness…” (John 8:12) He alone provides the enduring guidance, strength, and comfort that mankind has always needed.
If our finite reasoning is ever elevated above God’s communication with us, remember that our enemy is well schooled in how to take advantage of our pride. He vigilantly looks for moments of arrogance, and even uses our own mental fatigue and confusion against us. These are opportunities for Satan. Fledgling believers who are still naïve about his camouflaged temptations, are easily misled until they are finally discipled. This is why we need to protect and train them!
Part Four
Consider God’s warning, “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” (1Timothy 4:16) While Biblical insights and spiritual gifts are provided to us as a blessing – they must authentically be sent by God’s Holy Spirit. This is why we are taught to “…test the spirits to determine if they are from God…” (1 John 4:1b) Always remember that the Holy spirit’s guidance will specifically agree with Scripture.
As Christians we are repeatedly warned not to rely on manmade ideologies, witchcraft or unclean spirits (see Galatians 5:19-21). The Bible explains, “This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God” (1 John 4:2). Our Father’s revealed truth expressed in the incarnation of His eternal Word is how He chose to communicate with the world. When “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…” (John 1:14) the eternal cornerstone for truth was fully laid!
By Billie Hanks Jr.
