What role does Scripture play in leading to "salvation through faith in Christ"? The Pathway to Salvation Marked by Scripture “and you have known from infancy the sacred Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:15) What Does “Wise for Salvation” Mean? • Scripture exposes our lost condition (Romans 3:10-12). • Scripture unveils God’s rescue plan in Christ (Isaiah 53:5-6; Luke 24:27). • Scripture calls for personal faith response (Acts 16:31). How Scripture Leads to Saving Faith 1. Revelation • Shows who Jesus is—Son of God, Savior (John 1:29; John 20:31). 2. Conviction • The Spirit wields the Word to pierce the heart (Hebrews 4:12; Acts 2:37). 3. Invitation • Offers the promise: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13). 4. Birth • “He chose to give us birth through the word of truth.” (James 1:18). • “You have been born again… through the living and enduring word of God.” (1 Peter 1:23). 5. Nourishment • Once saved, the same Word grows us up (1 Peter 2:2; Colossians 3:16). Why the Written Word Is Essential • Fixed and trustworthy—“Every word of God is flawless.” (Proverbs 30:5). • Accessible across time and culture—handed to Timothy in childhood, handed to us today. • Objective standard—guards against error (Psalm 19:7-11). • Faith-generating—“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17). Practical Takeaways • Read the Scriptures with the goal of seeing Christ. • Share specific passages (e.g., John 3:16; Romans 5:8) when presenting the gospel. • Memorize salvation-focused verses to keep the message clear in your heart and on your lips. • Trust the Word’s power—when it is opened, God Himself speaks and saves. |