Power of the Bible:
Many do not understand the value of God’s word. He has given us a powerful resource. As an example, consider an artist’s paints and paintbrush. In my hands, I can only create swirls of inconsistent colors. In the hands of my wife and daughter, beautiful paintings are produced. On plaster, Michaelangelo created wonders, such as on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
The Scripture available to Jesus Christ was Torah. He had extensive knowledge of it and applied it to His life being obedient to it in every way. He internalized it and used it to refute the temptations of Satan, and attacks by many throughout His life. After Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension, Jesus used the Apostles with the help of His Spirit, teachings, and Scripture to launch His Church despite terrible opposition from which most of them were martyred. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Ephesians that all followers of Jesus would be embroiled in a spiritual battle, and for this, they were given the full armor of God through which they could stand firm (Ephesians 6:12-18). Paul described God’s word, the Scripture, as the sword of the Spirit (verse 17). It is more than defensive in the battle; it is offensive armor.
When a person accepts Jesus Christ and is anointed with the Holy Spirit, they have access to the full armor of God. However, the benefits are not conferred passively. This armor must be put on with discipline. Every Christ-follower must discipline themselves to be able to use the Bible in God’s calling for them. What does this entail?
- Learning how to correctly interpret the Bible;
- Setting aside quality time to be in the Bible, study it systematically, understand what applies to you, and apply it to your life in obedience;
- Internalize it by memorization;
- Use it in your relationship with God and encounters with others;
Many Christ-followers do not realize the extent of the power of this means of grace, the Bible, God has given us. When used correctly, the Christ-follower can be used by the Holy Spirit to create something far beyond comparison to the fresco on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. They will become canvasses that portray the magnificence of the glory of God to the world.