What practical steps can prevent altering God's Word in our teachings? The Foundational Command “Do not add to what I command you or subtract from it, but keep the commandments of the LORD your God that I am giving you.” (Deuteronomy 4:2) Why This Warning Still Matters • God’s Word is complete and sufficient; tampering implies it needs improvement. • Altering Scripture misleads listeners and puts teachers under stricter judgment (James 3:1). • Fidelity brings blessing; distortion invites discipline (Revelation 22:18-19). Practical Safeguards Against Altering Scripture • Let Scripture interpret Scripture – Compare passages; refuse doctrines built on isolated verses. • Commit to literal meaning first – Consider genre, grammar, and historical setting, but resist spiritualizing away plain sense. • Study the original words when possible – Basic tools (lexicons, interlinear Bibles) clarify intent without relying on paraphrase. • Teach verse-by-verse whenever you can – Sequential exposition limits cherry-picking and forces hard truths to the surface. • Use multiple faithful translations for clarity – Differences alert you to possible areas of misreading. • Keep yourself under accountable leadership – Elders and mature believers can flag drift early. • Cite your sources aloud – Saying, “Scripture says…” instead of “I think…” reminds everyone Who holds authority. • Avoid adding cultural or personal agendas – Ask, “Would my point still stand if my preference vanished?” • Pray for illumination before you prepare – Dependence on the Spirit guards against self-driven editing. • Welcome Berean-like listeners (Acts 17:11) – Encourage others to verify what you teach. Key Passages That Echo the Command • Proverbs 30:5-6: “Every word of God is flawless… Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you and prove you a liar.” • 2 Timothy 3:16-17: All Scripture is “God-breathed,” therefore sufficient for every good work. • 2 Timothy 2:15: “Rightly handling the word of truth” requires diligent study. • Revelation 22:18-19 warns against adding or taking away from prophecy. Habits That Keep Us Faithful Teachers 1. Daily reading plan—keeps the whole counsel of God in view. 2. Scripture memory—writes the unedited text on the heart (Psalm 119:11). 3. Regular doctrinal review—revisit core truths to spot drift early. 4. Humble repentance—quickly correct any discovered misstatement. 5. Teachability—attend conferences, read sound commentaries, and learn from seasoned expositors. Final Word of Encouragement When we guard the text, the text guards us. Hold fast to what is written, and the Lord will honor both the message and the messenger. |
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