For ‘You’ Have Magnified Your ‘Word’ Above All

Jamie Pantastico writes for Mesa Bible Study

by Jamie Pantastico

On June 28, 2023

“I will worship toward Your holy temple, and praise Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth; for You have magnified Your word above all Your name.”

(Psalm 138:2)

 

In the midst of wickedness, immorality, and uncertainty that surround us, it is essential for believers to recognize the paramount importance of God’s Word. Psalm 138:2 beautifully reminds us of the exalted position of God’s Word above all else, because the Lord Jesus Himself is the Word and the Word is God and God is faithful. This truth should deeply resonate with our hearts and guide us in our daily lives.

 

In these tumultuous times, when the world seems to be drifting further away from God, we can find solace and strength in the unchanging truth of His Word. It is through His Word that God reveals His lovingkindness and truth, serving as an unwavering anchor for our souls. As we immerse ourselves in the Scriptures, we encounter the character and promises of our faithful and sovereign God.

 

The Apostle Paul, who is the apostle for the Gentiles, and who alone was given the gospel and doctrine for this age of grace magnifies the importance of God’s word. In his letter to the Romans, he writes:

 

Romans 15:4 –

“For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.”

 

The Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments, were not only written for the believers of their time but also for us today (building blocks for what we have today). They serve as a timeless source of instruction, and guidance teaching us valuable lessons and providing us with hope and comfort in the midst of trials. As we study ALL of God’s Word, we discover the faithfulness of God throughout biblical history and find encouragement (because God is faithful) to trust Him in our present circumstances.

 

2 Timothy 3:16-17 –

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

 

Paul reminds us of the divine origin (God-breathed) and purpose of each and every passage in the Bible. It is inspired by God Himself and holds immense value in shaping our lives. The Word of God serves multiple purposes: teaching us sound doctrine, convicting us of sin, correcting our ways, and training us in righteousness. Through Scripture, we are equipped to live out our faith, reflecting the character of Christ and fellow workers with God in His field to produce good works that bring glory to Him (1 Corinthians 3:9-12).

 

2 Timothy 2:15

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 

 

In this verse, the Apostle Paul exhorts Timothy, and by extension, all believers, to diligently engage in the study of God’s Word. The command to “study” implies a devoted effort, a disciplined pursuit of understanding and applying Scripture. The purpose of this diligent study is to gain God’s approval and to be recognized as faithful and competent in handling His Word.

 

Paul further emphasizes the importance of rightly dividing the word of truth. This involves correctly handling the Scriptures, and accurately interpreting and applying them within their appropriate contexts (who’s writing, who is the writer writing to, what are the circumstances, what came before and what came after). By doing so, believers become skilled workmen, able to discern and communicate the truth effectively.

 

In summary, 2 Timothy 2:15 encourages believers to prioritize the study of God’s Word, seeking His approval by becoming adept at handling the Scriptures with accuracy, discernment, and a deep desire to understand and live out its truths.

 

Takeaway

 

Believers, let us prioritize the study and meditation of God’s Word, especially in these challenging times. As we delve into the Scriptures, we encounter the lovingkindness and truth of our Heavenly Father, which provides strength, direction, and hope. Let us remain anchored in the unchanging truth of His Word, allowing it to shape our thoughts, actions, and decisions. In doing so, we will be equipped to navigate the uncertainties of this world and shine brightly as beacons of God’s light and love.

Remember: God’s Word stands firm, steadfast, and relevant in every season of life. Let it be our daily source of comfort, guidance, and encouragement.

 

Thank you for reading.

Please consider sharing this post on social media.

 

Jamie Pantastico

Mesa Bible Study

Faith, Sine Qua Non

“What is Not Properly Understood can “Not” be Properly Applied”

 

 

 

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

What Saith the Scripture?

Most problems in interpreting Bible passages arise from neglecting a passage’s context. The guiding principle of sound interpretation is to take a passage literally. Not maintaining this discipline, interpreting Scripture becomes made up, man’s idea, fantasy, and the passage can mean almost anything. The result is erroneous and ridiculous interpretations.

Another important principle to sound Bible interpretation is to read Scripture “in-time”. In other words, we have to read and study the Bible as a progressive revelation. Not getting ahead of God’s revelation.

God’s plan of redemption for mankind wasn’t revealed all at once to Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Isaiah, or any of the other old testament prophets. Not even Peter and the eleven were given the full counsel of God. The Lord revealed to each of the aforementioned what they needed at their particular time in Biblical history. A hermeneutical method that does not approach Scripture as a progressive revelation leads to erroneous interpretations.

To be a good bible student one must maintain a literal, grammatical and historical (in-time) hermeneutic. There has been much too much of man’s theology governing Scripture when it is God’s Word alone that reigns over theology.

 

Z

Who's writing?

Identify the author of the book and passage.

Z

Who is the author writing too?

Who is the audience? Yes, all Scripture is for us but not all of Scripture is directed to us our salvation and doctrine (how to live our daily lives). To say all of Scripture is, is erroneous interpretation.

Z

When was the Book or Passage written?

This is necessary to identify the time and historical context.

Z

What were the circumstances when it was written? (what was going on)

Z

What was going on before and after it was written?

What happen before and after the particular Book or Passage you’re reading?

Z

What is the HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF THE VERSE?

Where does the Bible verse fit in Biblical history. Use the answers from the list of these questions to identify the “historical context”.

Z

Are there other passages that the Author has written to help expand on the verse your reading?

Z

Utilize the full counsel of God to illuminate the passage

All of Scripture fits perfectly.

 

The Good News

salvation

Salvation is a FREE GIFT from God. You don’t have to do anything but believe by faith that God sent His only Son Jesus Christ to die for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead 3 days later.

THE GOOD NEWS

SALVATION

Salvation is a FREE GIFT from God. SALVATION IS BY FAITH ALONE & FAITH IS BELIEVING WHAT GOD SAYS.

  1. God declares all mankind sinners and we all fall short of Glory of God. Romans 3:23
  2. The payment for our sin is death. Romans 6:23
  3. But God…because he loved you so much sent His own Son, Jesus Christ, to die in your place, for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead three days later. 1 Cor 15:1-42cor 5:21

All God asks is that you believe by faith alone in 1, 2, & 3. That you’re a sinner, separated from God but God sent his Son to die for your sins, was buried & rose again 3 days later.

that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

Romans 10:9

Do You Believe?

You May Also Like…

Be Encouraged: Rejoice, Pray, Give Thanks

Be Encouraged: Rejoice, Pray, Give Thanks

In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, the Apostle Paul encourages believers with three powerful exhortations: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in...

Peter and Paul: Distinctions in Audience and Message

Peter and Paul: Distinctions in Audience and Message

Introduction   Understanding these distinctions is not just a matter of historical or theological interest but is crucial for rightly dividing the Word of Truth and grasping the full scope of...

Free Bible Study Classes, Free Bible Resources

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This