How can we apply the principle of Isaiah 8:20 in our Bible study? The Verse in Focus: Isaiah 8:20 “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.” Setting the Scene • In Isaiah’s day, voices promoted occult guidance and national alliances instead of trusting God’s revelation. • Isaiah answers, “Run everything through God’s revealed Word. Anything that contradicts it is darkness.” • The same measuring-rod still stands: Scripture alone carries divine authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Proverbs 30:5). Core Principle God’s written Word is the final standard. Truth is whatever aligns with “the law and the testimony.” Error is anything that departs from it. Why This Matters in Our Own Study • Scripture guards us from deception (Psalm 119:105). • It unifies believers around objective truth (John 17:17). • It equips us for every good work, not merely some (2 Timothy 3:17). Practical Ways to Apply Isaiah 8:20 • Lay every teaching beside Scripture first. Commentaries, videos, podcasts, and traditions are secondary sources. • Read passages in context—immediate verses, book theme, and overall biblical storyline—so no isolated idea outweighs the whole counsel of God. • Compare Scripture with Scripture. Clear passages illuminate difficult ones (Psalm 119:130). • Keep a humble “Berean” habit: daily examination, eager reception, careful verification (Acts 17:11). • Let the Holy Spirit illuminate the text. He authored it and anchors us in truth (John 16:13). • Memorize and meditate. Stored truth becomes an instant plumb line when new ideas surface (Psalm 119:11). • Test experiences and impressions. Genuine leading of God never conflicts with His written Word. • Evaluate teachers by their fidelity to Scripture rather than charisma or popularity. If their words diverge from the Bible, “they have no light of dawn.” • Invite accountability. Study alongside brothers and sisters who will lovingly challenge any conclusions drifting from the text (Ephesians 4:15). Guardrails That Keep Us in the Light • Scripture interprets life, not the reverse. • Truth never changes; applications may vary, but God’s meaning is fixed. • Minor points stay minor; major truths stay major, according to biblical emphasis. • Christ remains central; all Scripture ultimately testifies of Him (Luke 24:27). Fruit of Living by This Standard • Discernment grows sharper. • Doctrine stays pure. • Unity deepens around shared truth. • Confidence rises, knowing we walk in the light of God’s unchanging Word. |
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