A Framework For Understanding (Part One)

In our day, surveys and opinion polls expose the fact that we are seeing a rise in interest in spirituality coupled with lack of biblical formation. Why? Not a lack of availability of Bible knowledge, but a lack of a proper framework for understanding that knowledge. Like a house must be properly framed in if it is to be strong and solid, our understanding of scripture needs appropriate framework.

What principles are fundamental to framing in our understanding the Scriptures? We’ll see the first today in…

A High View Of Scripture

Why? Because it is God-breathed (which speaks to both the worth and the character of the Bible).

• But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God. (2 Peter 1:20-21)
• All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. (2 Tim.3:16-17)

Those are remarkable statements—and how we view those statements will largely determine the basic attitude with which we approach the Bible. Having a high view of scripture is not just a flag to wave, or a motto to affirm, however. It must the undergirding philosophy that determines the attitude and approach with which we handle the scriptures. Our approach to the scriptures must be governed by the recognition that these are God’s words we are dealing with, and the responsibility we bear before Him is significant. This means:

1. We do not approach the Bible like we would merely human literature. Its value is beyond compare because it is breathed out by God.
2. We do not approach the Bible in a casual or indifferent manner. We approach with the desire to know God’s heart and mind, and purposes for our living and our relationships with Him and with others.
3. We do not approach the Bible with simply an academic or intellectual approach because it is given for higher purpose.

We are to approach God’s breathed out book with the reality that it was given to us that we might know Him, know faith, know truth, know life—because through this Book we know Christ. These profound realities must shape our approach to and attitude about the scriptures. A high view of scripture ultimately says to me two critical things:

• This is God’s revelation of Himself to us—handle it with care!
• My careful handling of His Word must result in a heart that reflects who He is. Otherwise, I am not really taking His Word seriously.

That is where we start in farming in our understanding the scriptures. Next, we see our: