By Riley Nelson Richmond Hill Church of Christ
Over the past few weeks we have looked at the relevancy of God’s word. Despite what some may think, it is just as needed and meaningful today as when it was penned. Our world would be a much better place if everyone took the time to read study and obey God’s word. It has been said that if the Bible were not true (but it is) the world would profit by following its teachings.
In our discussion we have seen that the Bible deals with the problem of sin. God does not try to explain away sinful acts, or to sugar coat the things men do to one another. His word says it is sin, and that sin will cost man his soul. God tells us that all men sin. Rom. 3:23 As long as sin is prevalent, God word will be relevant. We also saw the Bible teaches true science, history, self-help, relationships (husband – wife, children – parents, and mankind with mankind). Yet that is not its purpose. The Bible reveals that God desires all men to be saved from sin and explains all God has done to make it possible (1 Tim. 2:4, John 3:16). God’s plan of salvation is revealed in the Word of God.
We then noticed God’s word places emphasis on the worth of man. Jesus talked about this – “He said, “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows” (Matt 10:29–31). Last week we saw that Gods word gives purpose to this life and hope for the next. God has blessed us by giving us purpose in our life. We have the physical blessing – family, friends, work to do, etc. Yet we know there is a life beyond this one – eternity.
Finally we need to see that through God’s relevant word; faith is produced that leads to obedience and the hope of eternal life. Paul told of how faith is produced in the book of Romans. He wrote, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Faith is a necessary thing for the Hebrew writer told us , “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Heb. 11:6). Notice He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. There is more to being saved than just believing, even the demons believe but they are not saved (James 2:19). In fact the writer of Hebrews helps us understand this when he wrote, “Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;” (Heb. 5:8, 9).
To obey Christ we act upon our faith by repenting of our sins, confessing Christ as the Son of God, being baptized for the remission of our sins and living for God. Yes God’s word is very relevant today.