What does "Does not the Law say the same thing?" imply about Scripture's authority? The Context of 1 Corinthians 9:8 • Paul is defending his right to receive material support as an apostle. • He writes, “Do I say this from a human perspective? Doesn’t the Law say the same thing?”. • By asking this question, Paul shifts his argument from personal opinion to the authority of God’s written Law. Paul’s Appeal to the Law • “The Law” refers to the inspired writings of Moses (Genesis–Deuteronomy). • Paul treats those writings as the final court of appeal; if the Law says it, the matter is settled. • His words assume the Law’s permanence and reliability for guiding Christian practice—even in issues of ministry support. Implications for Scripture’s Authority • Scripture speaks with divine, not merely human, authority. – Paul will not ground his argument on experience alone; he anchors it in God’s word. • Scripture is sufficient; one citation from the Law is enough to close the case. • Scripture is universally binding; what God once revealed remains obligatory for all generations. • Scripture is clear; Paul expects his readers to understand and accept its teaching without hesitation. • Scripture interprets and validates apostolic teaching; the New Testament message stands in harmony with the Old. Cross-References That Reinforce the Point • 2 Timothy 3:16 — “All Scripture is God-breathed…” • John 10:35 — “…the Scripture cannot be broken.” • Matthew 5:17-18 — Jesus affirms every “jot” and “stroke” of the Law. • Romans 15:4 — The past writings were “for our instruction.” • Acts 17:11 — Bereans checked Paul’s message against Scripture. • Galatians 3:8 — “The Scripture foresaw…” showing Scripture itself speaks with foresight. • Psalm 119:89 — “Your word… is firmly fixed in the heavens.” Practical Takeaways for Today • Let Scripture be the decisive voice in every doctrinal or ethical question. • Test all teaching—even apostolic-style claims—by the written word. • Expect coherence between Old and New Testaments; the same God speaks in both. • Stand confidently on Scripture’s clarity and sufficiency when defending truth. |
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