In what ways can believers ensure they are sharing God's word accurately? Setting the Stage: Jeremiah 23:28 “Let the prophet who has a dream recount his dream, but let him who has My word speak My word truthfully. For what is straw compared with grain?” declares the LORD. Straw = empty, easily scattered. Grain = nourishing, worth gathering and protecting. The Lord calls His people to handle His revealed word as “grain,” never mixing it with the chaff of opinion or speculation. Guarding the Message: Four Heart Commitments • Reverence: Approach Scripture as wholly inspired, inerrant, and sufficient (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Truthfulness: Speak only what Scripture actually says, refusing to embellish (Proverbs 30:5-6). • Dependence: Rely on the Holy Spirit for illumination (John 16:13). • Humility: Submit personal ideas to God’s Word rather than forcing the Word to support personal ideas (Isaiah 66:2). Practical Habits for Accurate Sharing • Diligent Study – “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God…rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). • Context First – Read the surrounding verses, the book, and the whole Bible storyline before drawing conclusions. • Compare Scripture with Scripture – Let clear passages explain harder ones (Acts 17:11). • Use Reliable Translations – Favor formal-equivalent versions for study; consult original-language helps when possible. • Avoid Adding or Subtracting – Stick to what is written; resist sensational claims (Revelation 22:18-19). • Test Teachings – Measure every sermon, article, or social-media clip against the text itself (1 John 4:1). • Seek Accountability – Study in community, welcoming correction from mature believers (Ephesians 4:14-15). • Live Consistently – A credible life underscores a credible message (James 1:22). Safeguarding with Scripture: Key Cross-References • 1 Peter 4:11 – “If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God.” • James 3:1 – Teachers face stricter judgment; accuracy matters. • Psalm 119:160 – “The sum of Your word is truth.” • Colossians 3:16 – Let the word dwell richly, fueling teaching and admonition. • Matthew 28:20 – Teach disciples “to observe all” Jesus commanded, not selective portions. Living Out the Grain, Not the Straw • Schedule regular, unhurried time in the text. • Memorize key passages for instant recall and faithful quoting. • Keep a notebook tracking context, repeated words, and original audience. • Pray for clarity before speaking; pause rather than guess. • Encourage others to open their own Bibles as you share. By treasuring Scripture as grain—pure nourishment from God—and refusing the straw of human invention, believers preserve the accuracy of God’s word and offer food that truly sustains. |
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