inspiration – La Vista Church of Christ https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms Fri, 17 Jul 2026 15:44:29 +0000 en hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.2 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/cropped-LaVistaBanner-Copy-1-32x32.png inspiration – La Vista Church of Christ https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms 32 32 157465916 Why Did God Write the Bible This Way? https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/why-did-god-write-the-bible-this-way/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 15:44:29 +0000 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/?p=96727

by Dr. Thaxter Dickey
via InLight Media

Why did God choose to give us the New Testament as four Gospels, letters, and Revelation instead of a systematic theology or a book of Christian law? In this video, Dr. Thaxter Dickey explores one of the most fascinating questions about Scripture: why the Bible is written the way it is. Rather than giving us a rulebook or a theological textbook, God revealed His truth through stories, letters, history, poetry, and personal relationships. That design isn't accidental; it teaches us how to think, believe, and live as disciples of Christ.

We'll examine how the New Testament invites us to pursue wisdom rather than merely collect information, why Paul's letters were written to real churches facing real problems, and how biblical doctrine is meant to transform both our minds and our hearts. Along the way, we'll consider passages from Matthew, II Timothy, I Timothy, Ezra, James, and Deuteronomy, as well as insights from great thinkers. Whether you've wondered why the Bible doesn't answer every question as directly as we'd like, or you're seeking a deeper approach to Bible study, this discussion is an invitation to move beyond mere academics or shallow devotionals toward genuine discipleship. In this video, you'll discover:

  • Why the New Testament isn't a systematic theology
  • Why God chose letters, narratives, and parables instead of a rulebook
  • The relationship between doctrine, wisdom, and spiritual formation
  • How to approach Bible study in a way that transforms your life
  • Why certainty and faith can coexist with unanswered questions

If this video encourages your study of Scripture, consider subscribing for more thoughtful discussions on biblical theology, Christian living, Bible interpretation, church history, and faithful following of Christ.

]]> 96727 The Wondrous Book of God https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/the-wondrous-book-of-god/ Sun, 10 May 2026 18:08:03 +0000 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/?p=42589
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by Jeffrey W. Hamilton

Text: Psalm 119:17-24

 

I.         Eulogy of the Bible

            Many years ago, I entered the wonderful temple of God’s revelation. I entered the portico of Genesis and walked down through the Old Testament Art Gallery where the pictures of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Joshua, Samuel, David, and Daniel hung on the wall.

            I entered the music room of the Psalms where the Spirit swept the keyboard of nature and brought forth the dirge-like wail of the weeping prophet Jeremiah: to the grand, impassioned strains of Isaiah until it seemed that every reed and harp in God’s organ of nature responded to the tuneful touch of David, the sweet singer of Israel.

            I entered the chapel of Ecclesiastes where the voice of the Preacher was heard, and passed into the Conservatory of Sharon where the Lily of the Valley’s sweet scented spices filled and perfumed my life.

            I entered the business room of the Proverbs and passed into the observatory room of the prophets where I saw many telescopes of various sizes, some pointed to far off events, but all concentrated upon the Bright Morning Star which was soon to rise over the moon-lit hills of Judea for our salvation.

            I entered the audience room of the King of Kings and caught a vision from the standpoint of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John; entered the Acts of the Apostles where the Holy Spirit was doing his office work in the forming of the church; passed into the correspondence room where sat Paul, Peter, James, Jude, and John penning their epistles

            I stepped into the throne room of Revelation, where all towered into glittering peaks. I received a vision of the King seated upon his throne in all his glory, and I cried:

“All hail the power of Jesus’ name

Let angels prostrate fall.

Bring forth the royal diadem

And crown him Lord of all.”

Author Unknown

II.        God’s word contains wonderful things - Psalms 119:17-18

            A.        The desire is evident - Psalm 119:129-136

            B.        If you marked each of the verses in Psalm 119 which deal with the law of the Lord, his testimonies, his ways, his precepts, his statutes, his commandments, his judgments, his word, his work, etc. you would end up marking most of the verses of the Psalm. 171 verses of the 176 verses in Psalm 119 deal with God’s written word in some way.

III.       What is God’s Word?

            A.        It is a supernatural book. No ordinary process of could have formed this marvelous book.

                        1.         It is inspired by God. Coming from the breath of God - II Timothy 3:16-17

                        2.         It is verbally inspired. The choice of every word was selected by God

                                    a.         Every word proceeds from the mouth of God - Matthew 4:4

                                    b.         The words came from the Spirit of God - I Corinthians 2:12-13

                                    c.         This inspiration does not mean the writers were motivate to pen their thoughts as a beautiful sunset or a tragic event inspires men.

                                    d.         This inspiration does not mean that God gave men an idea which they then penned in their own words.

                                    e.         Each word came from God

                        3.         It is plenary inspired. We are not saying a part of the Bible was inspired or even most of the Bible was inspired, but that all of the Bible was inspired.

                                    a.         Every Scripture is inspired - II Timothy 3:16

                                    b.         The sum, or totality, of the Bible is truth - Psalm 119:160

                                    c.         God’s word is truth - John 17:17

                                    d.         Literally thousands of passages state that thus God spoke.

                        4.         It is a book for doing battle in the spiritual realm - Ephesians 6:10-17

                        5.         It is a living book - Hebrews 4:12

            B.        It is a book from God

                        1.         Revealed by the Spirit from Jesus who taught the Father’s will - John 14:23-26

                        2.         Disclosed to the apostles - John 16:12-15

                        3.         Within its pages God has revealed himself - Matthew 11:27; I Corinthians 2:6-13

                        4.         These things the Apostles have revealed to us - Ephesians 3:1-6

                        5.         It was witnessed, given by the Spirit - II Peter 1:16-21

                        6.         Miracles, signs, and wonders confirmed the truth of the message - Mark 16:20; Hebrews 2:1-4

            C.        It is a sovereign book. It holds the authority of God

                        1.         John 10:35 - The Scriptures cannot be broken

                        2.         When man put their own ideas first, it invalidates the word of God - Mark 7:6-9, 13

                        3.         It is the weapon of God - II Corinthians 10:3-6

            D.        It is a book that will survive

                        1.         Jesus’ words will not die - Matthew 24:35

                        2.         Settled in heaven forever - Psalm 119:89-91

                        3.         Abiding forever - I Peter 1:22-25

IV.      By these wondrous words we will be judged - John 12:48-50

            A.        Do you believe it?

            B.        Will you obey it?

]]> 42589 The Holy Spirit Completed His Revelation https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/the-holy-spirit-completed-his-revelation/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 22:23:18 +0000 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/?p=94699

by Bruce Reeves

The religious culture that surrounds us today has chosen emotionalism and sensationalism over a passionate and substantive examination of God's word and the application of truth to our lives. As a result, there is much confusion regarding miracles and the activity of the Holy Spirit. One of the key elements of the charismatic chaos stems from a misunderstanding of the purpose of miracles in Biblical times. There is great power in the completed revelation of the Holy Spirit in the scriptures, and it is that very point that must be driven home in the heart of every believer.

What Was the Purpose of Miracles in the Days of the New Testament?

The miracles performed in the New Testament were not merely intended to remove human suffering. Jesus did not heal all of the sick or raise all of the dead. The miracles of both Jesus Christ and His apostles were for the purpose of confirming the claim that Jesus was the divine Son of God (John 20:30-31; Acts 2:22).

Mark reports, "And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them, and confirmed the word by the signs that followed" (Mark 16:20). The Hebrew writer also spoke of the purpose of miraculous gifts, "...After it was at the first spoken through the Lord, it was confirmed to us by those who heard, God also testifying with them, both by signs and wonders and by various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit according to His own will" (Hebrews 2:3-4). Luke speaks of the purpose of miracles, as well, when he writes, "Therefore they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands" (Acts 14:3).

The Holy Spirit came on the apostles in order to reveal all truth (John 16:13). It was necessary that He teach them all things because the revelation had not yet been completed (John 14:26). Once God's word was completely revealed, there would be no need for miraculous confirmation of that which had already been received. Additionally, the Holy Spirit came upon Cornelius' household directly to confirm the Lord's willingness to accept the Gentiles into the church (Acts 10:47-48, 11:15-18). The Spirit's purposes in these regards have been accomplished; thus, the need for miraculous activity for empowerment and confirmation has been met.

The More Excellent Way (I Corinthians 12:31)

To appreciate I Corinthians 13:8-13, we must consider the surrounding context in which we find it. It is clear from the context that there was carnality in Corinth surrounding the expression of miraculous spiritual gifts. Paul emphasizes that the gifts were a means to an end and not the end itself. He also establishes the necessity of love in the expression of spiritual gifts (I Corinthians 13:1-3); the character of the love of Christ (I Corinthians 13:4-7); and the superiority of love over the gifts, which were but temporary (I Corinthians 13:8-13).

He speaks of the duration of love in contrast to the gifts. Love will never "fail," i.e., "come to an end" as the terms "done away" and "cease" demonstrate (I Corinthians 13:8). However, the gifts of "prophecy," "tongues" and "knowledge" will "vanish away" (I Corinthians 13:8). These gifts are all mentioned among the nine gifts enumerated in I Corinthians 12:8-10. These three miraculous gifts were not the only ones to cease, but are mentioned as representatives of miraculous spiritual gifts as a whole. Paul's argument rests on the assumption that "faith," "hope," and "love" are superior and enduring compared to miraculous spiritual gifts.

"But When the Perfect Comes..." (I Corinthians 13:9-10)

Paul employs two terms that interact with one another in this section in an instructive manner that must not be missed. "In part" is contrasted with the term "perfect" in I Corinthians 13:9-10. Paul uses the words "know" and "prophesy" in order to represent miraculous spiritual gifts in their entirety.

There has been much debate concerning the meaning of the phrase, "but when that which is perfect comes..." (I Corinthians 13:10). The term "perfect" refers to that which is complete, full, or mature. Since the terms "part" and "perfect" are being contrasted, they must be used together to establish the definition of the concept Paul intends in this context. Likewise, the phrase "in part" clearly refers to God's revelation through "prophecy," "knowledge," or "tongues"; therefore, we can certainly know that the counterpart of the term in the use of the word "perfect" refers to the completed revelation. So, just as one term refers to the partial revelation of God's will, the other term must be defined as God's perfect or complete revelation of God's will.

We can read of the things that existed during the life of Paul, that is, miraculous spiritual gifts and faith, hope, and love. Paul pronounces the future of each item, i.e., miraculous gifts would "fail," "cease," and "vanish away," whereas "faith," "hope," and "love" would "abide." Therefore, there would be a time prior to the return of Christ in which miraculous spiritual gifts would cease to exist (I Corinthians 13:13). We know that "hope" would exist after the cessation of miraculous spiritual gifts and, yet, Paul argues that in eternity we will no longer have to hope, for we will possess in actuality our spiritual reward (Romans 8:24).

The apostle even uses illustrations in order to make this point clear. He speaks of his own development from a young man into adulthood. He wrote, "When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things" (I Corinthians 13:11). Miraculous spiritual gifts were intended for empowerment and confirmation of the gospel in the infancy of the church. When the revelation of the gospel was complete, the need for the spiritual gifts was accomplished, and miraculous spiritual gifts ceased. It is also noteworthy that only the apostles could transfer the ability to practice spiritual gifts through the laying on of their hands (Acts 8:14-25; II Timothy 1:6). As a result, miraculous spiritual gifts would cease as those who had received gifts through the laying on of the apostles' hands died.

The final illustration Paul uses is that of a mirror. He writes, "For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known" (I Corinthians 13:12). Paul teaches the brethren that presently they saw "dimly" but the time was coming when by virtue of the full revelation brethren would see "face to face" or clearly. The phrase "face to face" does not refer to seeing God or Jesus on the Day of Judgment; rather, it points to the complete revelation of God's will. Let no one think that he or she is free to take liberties with God's Word in the name of "following the Spirit." Those who argue for a closed canon and yet affirm the existence of miraculous spiritual gifts are in a self-contradiction that reveals a problematic position, to say the least. To follow the Spirit is to surrender to the word of God.

The Holy Spirit has revealed and confirmed the full revelation of God's truth in the Bible. Jesus said, "He who rejects and me and does not receive my sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day" (John 12:48). Let us thank God for His divinely inspired word!

]]> 94699 Men Spoke from God https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/men-spoke-from-god/ Wed, 11 Feb 2026 22:14:13 +0000 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/?p=93860

by Edwin Crozier

Text: II Peter 1:12-21

Peter explains why he so strongly wants to pass on the path to partake in the divine nature and participate in God’s glory and excellence. He witnessed it with his own eyes.

Calling to mind the Mount of Transfiguration (see Mark 9:2-8), Peter explains he witnessed the majesty of our Lord Jesus Christ. He heard the very voice of God the Father declaring Jesus to be His Son. The prophetic word was made more sure to Peter, James, and John. That is, Peter does not write simply because he has studied the ancient prophets and decided Jesus fulfilled them. He witnessed Jesus's transfiguration and saw Him share in the glory of God. Peter knows Jesus is the way any of us will share in God’s glory.

Peter specifically calls to mind the parable of the lamp to which we alluded in yesterday’s post. In Mark 4:21-25, Jesus asked, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear” (ESV). Then, Jesus tells His hearers to pay attention to what they hear. Though Mark uses a different Greek word, the idea is the same as Peter’s. Pay attention. Listen. Heed. Follow.

God’s Word is a lamp shining in a dark place. When we listen and follow, the day will dawn in our own hearts. We will be full of light and life. For Scripture, according to Peter, is not primarily the product of men. Rather, the ultimate author of Scripture is God through the Holy Spirit. “Men,” Peter says, “spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (II Peter 1:21 ESV). They did not write from their own authority, their own thinking, their own feelings. At least, not by those alone. No doubt, the Holy Spirit used each man as an instrument. He used their experiences, their perspectives, their backgrounds to get what He, the Holy Spirit, wanted in the Scriptures.

Therefore, we would do well to read. We would do well to read again and again. We would do well to take seriously the accounts of those who witnessed. We would do well to take seriously the accounts of those who experienced. We would do well to take seriously the accounts of those moved by God’s Holy Spirit.

Whether we are new to the Bible, long-time readers, or returning after a hiatus, let us dig deep in the rich soil of God’s Word. Let our roots sink into the Scriptures like a plant in soft, tilled earth by streams of water. Let us give all diligence to mature by knowing the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit through the self-revelation of Scripture. Though we are not as mature as we would like to be and though the going is often slow, remember, slow growth is still growth.

Whether quickly or slowly, may we grow by the power God gives through His Word and grace. Though we falter, may we never cease. For in so doing, God will grant us entrance to His eternal kingdom.

Praise the Lord!

]]> 93860 Indwelling (Sermon) https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/indwelling-2/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 00:38:06 +0000 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/?p=28763

by Jeffrey W. Hamilton

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Text: Psalm 139

 

I.         The concept of indwelling, specifically the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, is interesting because there are so many misconceptions given that a simple answer is commonly rejected.

II.        Who is the Holy Spirit?

            A.        The religious world holds many ideas regarding the Spirit of God

                        1.         Some believe it is just another reference to God

                        2.         Some believe the Spirit is just one aspect of God

                                    a.         We often refer to things by multiple names, where each name gives us a viewpoint, but it remains a single thing.

                                    b.         Thus some claim there is only one being called God, but the Spirit is one way we see the expression of that one being.

                        3.         Others believe that the Spirit is a separate personality with the Godhead

                                    a.         The Godhead being made up of three beings

                                    b.         But these three are so unified in purpose that they act as one

            B.        But religious philosophy does not establish truth

                        1.         Truth is found in God’s word - John 17:17

                        2.         If we accept that the Bible is God’s inspired word, then we believe that truth is established by proving our beliefs by what the Bible states.

            C.        The Bible says the Holy Spirit is deity - Acts 5:3-4

                        1.         In one statement Peter accuses Ananias of lying to the Holy Spirit and concludes that Ananias had lied to God

            D.        The Spirit is separate

                        1.         Ephesians 4:4-6 - In a list of unique things the Spirit, the Lord (Christ), and God, the Father are all listed.

                        2.         Matthew 28:19 - Baptism is done by the authority of three.

                                    a.         If there was just one being, you could claim that there was an attempt at inflated authority. (I have it on good account from me, myself, and I.)

                        3.         Matthew 3:16-17 - Jesus’ baptism

                                    a.         Three named

                                    b.         Three locations

                                    c.         Three activities

                                    d.         Some dismiss this saying God is powerful enough to be three places at one time

                                                (1)       To what purpose?

                                                (2)       Why would God call Jesus His Son if they are one and the same?

                                                (3)       If there is only one being, is God declaring that He is pleased with Himself?

                                                (4)       The difficulty is the preconceived notation, not what is actually stated.

                        4.         John 15:26 - The sending of the Helper

                                    a.         Jesus stated he would send the Spirit from the Father.

                                    b.         Since Jesus is sending the Spirit, the Spirit and Jesus cannot be the same.

                                    c.         Since the Spirit comes from the Father, the Spirit and the Father cannot be the same.

            E.        The Spirit is not nebulous

                        1.         Perhaps one reason for the vagueness in regards to the Spirit is that we do not have a crisp name for the Spirit.

                                    a.         We vaguely understand what a spirit is.

                                    b.         But we all have spirits.

                        2.         We have titles for the Father and the Son.

                                    a.         The Father is called Jehovah (or Yahweh), the Son is called Jesus

                                    b.         But what is the name of the Spirit?

                                    c.         Vague concepts become a breeding ground for odd ideas

                        3.         But the Spirit is referred to as a being

                                    a.         He speaks - I Timothy 4:1

                                    b.         He commands - Acts 13:2

                                    c.         He can be grieved - Ephesians 4:30

                                    d.         He can be insulted - Hebrews 10:29

                                    e.         He is a person, not in human terms, but in terms of deity

III.       Dwelling and God’s Omnipresence - Psalm 139

            A.        Note verse 7

                        1.         God’s Spirit is always present

                        2.         Omnipresence is a characteristic of deity

            B.        God was always present with Israel - Exodus 33:12-17

                        1.         Moses did not want to go further until he knew that God would be present

                        2.         God being with him and the people was important

            C.        Jesus promised to be with his disciples - Matthew 18:20; 28:20

            D.        Yet when people speak of God or Jesus being present, they think of someone who is close at hand or who is readily accessible.

                        1.         But when they speak of the Spirit’s presence, it changes to a concept of control or a lack of free will.

                        2.         Why is one member of the Godhead treated differently?

IV.      The Concept of Indwelling

            A.        Even though “indwelling” is used frequently by the religious community, the word is rarely used in our English translations.

                        1.         It is not in the KJV, ASV, NIV, or the NKJV

                        2.         It is used once in the Modern King James Version and twice in the original NASB, but not in the NASB’95

            B.        The Greek words:

                        1.         Enoikeo (en-oy-KEH-o) and a related word katoikeo (kat-oy-KEH-o)

                                    a.         Refers to dwelling in something or abiding in someplace

                                    b.         The root word is “house.” It is the place you inhabit; it is your abode; it is the place where you live

                        2.         Meno (MEN-o) - refers to staying in one place or continuing with one idea.

            C.        Too often we want religious things to be mysterious, so the simple is rejected.

                        1.         Where we dwell or where we abide refers to where we stand on matters.

                        2.         Example, Christians are urged to abide in love - I John 4:16

                                    a.         The place were we stay is in love

                                    b.         When we stay in love, then we stay in God and God stays in us.

                                    c.         Notice that our relationship with God is a two-way street

                                    d.         However you describe God being in you, it equally applies to you being in God.

            D.        Here is where many get caught

                        1.         God being in a person is described as a form of possession where God controls the person’s life.

                        2.         But since I am in God, does that mean I control God? The very thought is ridiculous! If such happened, God would no longer be supreme.

                        3.         Yet, doesn’t God control my life? Of course! But only because I have given my life over to Him to do His will.

                        4.         I still have choices. I still could rebel, but I don’t. Instead, I choose to do things God’s way.

                        5.         God being in me doesn’t mean that I lost the ability to choose, just as I being in God means that God no longer has a choice.

            E.        I being in God and God being in me paints a picture that God and I have chosen to live together in harmony.

                        1.         It is the result of a Christian choosing to be obedient to the teachings of God - I John 2:14

                        2.         What is meant by the word of God abiding in you?

                                    a.         The teachings of God have a place of residence in your mind.

                        3.         When God’s word is in us, then God Himself abides with us as well - I John 2:24

                                    a.         Notice the direction in this verse

                                    b.         The Christian abides in the Son and in the Father

                                    c.         It is still a two-way street. God becomes a part of our lives through His word and we in turn become close to God the Father and God the Son.

            F.        Living together in harmony is seen in John 14

                        1.         John 14:11 - Jesus and God are in each other. They have a close relationship.

                        2.         John 14:20 - The Christian is in Christ and Christ is in the Christian. Again it shows a close relationship.

            G.        People understand this until the Holy Spirit is thrown into the picture.

                        1.         People understand that the Father and the Son are in heaven, so their dwelling with us is easily seen as a close relationship.

                        2.         Yet, notice a verse between John 14:11 and 14:20 - John 14:15-17

                                    a.         This is no more mysterious than what we have stated before.

                                    b.         It is almost parallel to I John 2:24, which we read a moment ago.

                                    c.         When we keep God’s word, instead of saying the Son and the Father abides in us, Jesus says the Spirit abides in us.

                                    d.         In other words, the word of God becomes the common meeting ground between the disciple and God.

                                    e.         While we remain in that word, we share a close relationship with God - Father, Son, and Spirit.

V.        The Dwelling of the Spirit and the Dwelling of Christ

            A.        Many emphasize the Spirit dwelling in the Christian, but the New Testament speaks just as forcibly of Jesus dwelling in the Christian - Romans 8:9-11

                        1.         Notice the shift from the Spirit dwelling in you to Christ being in you and then back to the Spirit dwelling in you.

                        2.         Paul sees the ideas as being interchangeable.

            B.        Christ is formed in us when we become Christians - Galatians 4:19

            C.        He dwells in us by faith - Ephesians 3:14-17

                        1.         Once again, the Spirit is spoken of being in a man along with Christ dwelling in the man’s heart through faith.

                        2.         There is no difference in what is meant or how it is accomplished

            D.        The gift of Christ - Ephesians 4:7

                        1.         We understand that this gift is salvation

                        2.         But our imaginations go wild when we speak of the Spirit’s gift - Acts 2:38

                        3.         Yet, it is the same gift

                        4.         Jesus bought our salvation with His blood - Ephesians 1:7

                        5.         The Spirit guarantees our salvation through the promise of God written for us in our Bibles - Ephesians 1:13-14

            E.        The work of Christ and the work of the Spirit are intertwined.

                        1.         The relationship of the Christian with Christ and with the Spirit are similarly intertwined.

                        2.         God is one. You cannot dwell with Christ without also dwelling with the Spirit.

                        3.         When Christ is in us, the Spirit is also there, and so is the Father.

                        4.         When we are in Christ, we are also in the Father and in the Spirit.

VI.      The Dwelling Place of God

            A.        The Old Testament made much of God spending time with His people - Exodus 29:45-46

            B.        The tabernacle and later the temple represented God’s presence among the Israelites.

                        1.         Not that God physically dwelt in a building made by men - I Kings 8:27

                        2.         God is too great, too mighty, too large for anything in this universe to contain Him - Isaiah 66:1

                        3.         But God then tells us where He chooses to dwell - Isaiah 66:2

            C.        The theme continues into the New Testament where the wonder is that in Christ God choose to live with men as a man - John 1:14

            D.        One day that relationship will be permanent - Revelation 21:3

                        1.         Meanwhile each Christian is God’s tabernacle - II Corinthians 6:16

                        2.         We represent God’s presence in the world - I Corinthians 6:19-20

VII.     Where you live is your choice

            A.        God chooses to live with people who love Him and does His will.

            B.        Where we live is our choice - I John 2:24

                        1.         Notice that word, “let”

                        2.         It is your choice whether you will listen to God or not.

                        3.         It is your choice whether to let the Savior in - Revelation 3:20

            C.        So, where have you chosen to live?

]]> 28763 Can inspiration of the Bible be proven? https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/can-inspiration-of-the-bible-be-proven/ Sun, 08 Dec 2024 21:55:38 +0000 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/?p=81327

Question:

I know II Timothy 3:16: "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."

I had a discussion with a person who is not a member of the Church of Christ and, therefore, not a Christian. I was referring to the Scriptures in all I said, but he said the Scriptures were written by men. He also claimed to have read the Scriptures cover to cover three times and had studied philosophy. He said I shouldn't be basing my arguments on the Scriptures. I pointed out the words in the Scriptures above, and he said it couldn't be proven that the Holy Spirit inspired the Scriptures since men still wrote that part.

On other occasions, people always say I shouldn't only refer to the Scriptures because there were things that happened that weren't recorded in the Bible.

What would be the appropriate responses to these questions and scenarios?

Answer:

Concerning using the Bible to prove the Bible, see:

The second argument is nonsensical. Of course, other events happened. That is true of every history book. But that fact doesn't mean what is recorded in the Bible is necessarily false or an unreliable source.

The real problem is that people get uncomfortable arguing against the Bible. Your atheist friend doesn't believe the Bible, but that doesn't mean the Bible is false or uninspired. It also doesn't mean that the inspiration of the Bible cannot be proven. See: How do we know the Bible is inspired?

Response:

Thank you for the clarification, sir.

]]> 81327 If the Bible Was Human in Origin https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/if-the-bible-was-human-in-origin/ Tue, 06 Aug 2024 15:39:27 +0000 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/?p=69147

by Terry Wane Benton

If God was just made up, and the records of the Israelites that gave us the Old Testament were totally made up by them, then they were not very smart. They predicted their own demise and their rejection of their Messiah, making themselves look ridiculous. Who makes up a story about a god who constantly rebukes them for stubbornness and foolish idolatry and makes up prophecies about a coming Messiah that they will reject and cut off? Then, after they cut off their long-awaited Messiah, they predict that their temple system will get destroyed (Daniel 9:24ff).

If the Bible is human in origin, it holds amazing prophecies that no Israelite could predict with accuracy, a shameful storyline of Israelite betrayal of their God over and over. It has them rejecting the stone that would become the chief cornerstone of a different nation, has them cutting off their Messiah, and ends in the destruction of their temple system and priesthood for their God.

They could not have prophesied by human wisdom alone because their predictions are of a Child who would be called “mighty God” (Isaiah 9:6). They would not have written such a shameful history, shameful rejection of their Messiah, and shameful end to their temple system. Therefore, the Bible is not fully human in origin! Holy men of God spoke as they were moved along by the Holy Spirit (II Peter 1:19ff).

]]> 69147 Jesus Believed in Inspiration https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/jesus-believed-in-inspiration/ Sat, 27 Jul 2024 17:18:48 +0000 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/?p=69057

by Perry Hall

"Inspiration," how it happens, what it means, and why it is important are all questions, some of which have more straightforward answers than others. As far as how it happens, I don't have all the answers other than the personality of each writer is apparently intact, which I do not find incompatible with "The Dictation Theory" since God's omnipotence is involved. Saying that is how I understand it happens doesn't mean I can explain it other than what I often say, "If you can believe the first four words of the Bible, then you can believe all the words that follow."

What inspiration (better understood as "breathed out by God" - II Timothy 3:16 ESV) means is that the prophets and writers didn't necessarily understand what they wrote (I Peter 1:10-12; II Peter 1:19-21). Therefore, while the Bible is written by men, the Bible is not authored by men about God, but rather authored by God about men and God as self-revealed.

The commands to love one another and God are the most important. But among the other teachings that are not commands, I consider inspiration the most important. To borrow a visual image from Jesus, "all doctrines hang on this one doctrine." One reason I believe in Jesus's resurrection is that I believe in the apostles' inspiration.

Jesus Himself believed in and taught inspiration. In Matthew 22, when discussing whose son the Messiah is, the Pharisees answer with, "David's;" Jesus follows with, "How is it then that David, inspired by the Spirit, calls him 'Lord'" (Matthew 22:43)? I am not sure David understood (see above), and "No one was able to answer him at all" (Matthew 22:46), meaning the Pharisees couldn't explain it either.

What do we learn from this simple exchange:

  1. Scripture is inspired. Jesus believed this, and so should we.
  2. Writers didn't always understand what they were writing, which means the ideas didn't derive from their thoughts. Did David originate the idea of a human son of himself while being the divine son of God?
  3. Truth is not truth because we understand or approve of it. Our responsibility is to believe it.

When you read the words in the Bible, you are reading the words of the Spirit.

]]> 69057 As the Holy Spirit Says https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/as-the-holy-spirit-says/ Sat, 13 Apr 2024 14:16:03 +0000 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/?p=67461

by Terry Wane Benton

When the topic of “inspiration” (breathed of God) is brought up, some will argue that we don’t know how the Scriptures are “breathed of God,” but we do know that the words of the Scriptures were delivered from God’s mind to the mind of the writers of the holy Scriptures. Whenever we read the Scriptures of the Holy Bible, we listen to the Spirit of God, the Holy Spirit. When we turn away from the Scriptures, we resist the Holy Spirit. The mind of God is revealed in the Scriptures so that we can know the thoughts God wanted us to know. Paul said, “We have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God” (I Corinthians 2:12). He said, “by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I wrote before in a few words, by which, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)” (Ephesians 3:3-5). He said it has “now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets” (Ephesians 3:5). So, when we read the Bible, we read what was revealed by the Spirit. These are not mere words of human origin and mere human wisdom but words that pass from the mind of God to the mind of specially chosen men to reveal God’s mind and wisdom to us.

In Hebrews 3:7f, the prophet related that Psalm 95:7-11 is what “the Holy Spirit says.” In other words, the Holy Spirit still speaks to us in that and all other scriptures. Therefore, “inspiration” in II Timothy 3:16 means “God-breathed” because God said it. He spoke the words that passed through the writers' minds; they wrote them down, and the Holy Spirit moved them along to ensure the words were indeed what God wanted said with divine authority and approval. In Hebrews 10:15-16, the writer says, “The Holy Spirit also witnesses to us,” and he quotes the Holy Spirit from Jeremiah 31:31f. That scripture in Jeremiah is the testimony or “witness” of the Holy Spirit. When we quote the scriptures, we are giving the witness or testimony of the Holy Spirit. The testimony of Moses in giving the Tabernacle is “the Holy Spirit indicating” or necessarily implying some things. So, the Scriptures are indications from the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 4:12 says the word of God is “living and powerful” because it never ceases to be relevant; it remains the voice of the Holy Spirit to us. Times and people may change, but the word of God lives and abides forever. It is still what the Holy Spirit says to us.

When John penned the letters to the seven churches of Asia in Revelation 2-3, he kept repeating that if you “hear what the Spirit says to the churches,” you will be blessed. If they turned away from John's message, it is the same as resisting the Holy Spirit. I have presented here in this article what the Holy Spirit says about the divine origin and authority of the Scriptures. I did not write anything based on my own desires or mere human wisdom. I have related what the writers of the Bible conveyed. If you reject their words, you have not rejected men only. You have rejected the Holy Spirit, Jesus, and the Father. You reject God when you try to rationalize away His words of inspiration and Holy Writ! Stephen related the history of Israel, which was revealed and preserved by the Holy Spirit. Stephen pointed out that the Israelites were “stiff-necked” and stubborn and that “You always resist the Holy Spirit” (Acts 7:51). They stoned him, but by doing so, they showed that they were rejecting God. Let us be careful not to resist the Spirit by disagreeing with His words in the Scriptures.

]]> 67461 Do commentaries contain God’s words? https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/do-commentaries-contain-gods-words/ Mon, 26 Feb 2024 00:35:22 +0000 https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/?p=66774

Question:

In these dark days of political upheaval, financial uncertainty, and more, Christians and non-Christians alike have been asking many questions! Deep spiritual questions. I have questions, and I am not the only one in our Bible study groups!

l think you will agree that men of God have written Bible commentary and claim that it contains the true word of God; however, some of these Bible commentaries contain the word of men which have been penned down, thereby re-defining the word of God to suit the words of men or the tradition of men!

Recently, a man of God donated a Bible commentary to our men's Bible study groups. He claimed that the Bible commentary contains the undiluted word of God, and God will be very honored when we use it for Bible study!

Please kindly help us understand and give us feedback on the commentary.

You’ll never know what a blessing you will be to the people of God if you can help us out with an answer to this very important question

Thankful to you. God bless you.

Answer:

There seems to be some confusion about what has been inspired by God. Just because a person claims to have the words of God, it doesn't mean his claim is true.

"'Therefore behold, I am against the prophets,' declares the LORD, 'who steal My words from each other. Behold, I am against the prophets,' declares the LORD, 'who use their tongues and declare, "The Lord declares." Behold, I am against those who have prophesied false dreams,' declares the LORD, 'and related them and led My people astray by their falsehoods and reckless boasting; yet I did not send them or command them, nor do they furnish this people the slightest benefit,' declares the LORD" (Jeremiah 23:30-32).

Documents from God are proven to be of divine origin. (See How Do We KNOW the Bible Is True?) The Bible gave tests for determining whether a person was a prophet of God or not. (See Prophets.) But most important of all is that God said that prophecy would not continue (I Corinthians 13:8-10). The Bible was completed in the first century, and there are no additional inspired writings today.

A commentary is typically one man's thoughts about what the Bible is saying. His ideas may be interesting, but they are in no way equivalent to the writings in the Bible. The words of a commentator are not authoritative.

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