Establishing Bible Authority Drilling Bible Basics Establishing Bible Authority

The NEED for Bible Authority Jesus recognized the need for, and the proper source of, authority. The Jews questioned His authority. (Matthew 21:23-25) Jesus now has all authority in heaven and on earth. Matthew 28:18 We must have authority for all we say and do. Do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Colossians 3:17) If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. (1 Peter 4:11)

The NEED for Bible Authority We must not go beyond what has been revealed. Do not think beyond what is written. (1 Corinthians 4:6) Abide in the doctrine. (2 John 9-11) We must demand divine authority and be ready to give authority for what we say and do. “Be ready to give a defense.” (1 Peter 3:15)

How Jesus Demonstrated Divine Authority God’s word is the guide to divine truth. “It is written.” (Matthew 4:4) “Your word is truth.” (John 17:17) It contains statements of facts. God’s divorce law. (Matthew 19:3-6) It contains commands Love God and your neighbor. (Luke 10:25-28)

How Jesus Demonstrated Divine Authority Approved Example "Remember Lot's wife.” (Luke 17:32) "For I have given you an example.” (John 13:13-15) Necessary Inference Matthew 22:31,32

Divine Authority in Acts 15 Conflict over whether Gentile converts had to be circumcised in order to be saved. Some former Pharisees believed they did. (Acts 15:1,5) Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything.” (Galatians 5:6) Truth does not fear intense investigation.

Divine Authority in Acts 15 Peter appealed to the necessary inferences drawn from the approved example of the conversion of Cornelius. Acts 15:7-11

Divine Authority in Acts 15 Facts: God acknowledged the Gentiles and made no distinction between Jews and Gentles as to how they would be saved (faith).

Divine Authority in Acts 15 Conclusion: God did not make circumcision and keeping the Old Law requirements for salvation, so why should we?

Divine Authority in Acts 15 Barnabas and Paul offered approved examples of God’s confirmation of their work among the Gentiles. (vs.12) “Then all the multitude kept silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles.”

Divine Authority in Acts 15 James reemphasized the approved example of Peter’s first work among the Gentiles. (vs.13,14) “And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, "Men and brethren, listen to me: Simon has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His name.”

Divine Authority in Acts 15 They did not preach that Gentiles were required to be circumcised in order to be saved; yet, “God had worked through them.”

Divine Authority in Acts 15 James quoted from the prophets a statement of fact that agreed with the work of Peter and others. Amos 9:11,12 Acts 15:15-18 "And with this the words of the prophets agree, just as it is written: `After this I will return and will rebuild the tabernacle of David which has fallen down. I will rebuild its ruins, and I will set it up, so that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, even all the Gentiles who are called by My name, Says the Lord who does all these things.' Known to God from eternity are all His works.”

Divine Authority in Acts 15 James concluded that they should not trouble the Gentiles concerning circumcision. (vs.19) Why? They had no divine authority to do so! (vs.24) “Since we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, `You must be circumcised and keep the law' to whom we gave no such commandment.”

Divine Authority in Acts 15 Direct command that circumcision is not to be required of Gentiles to be saved (vs.28). Statement of fact Commands Approved example Necessary inference “For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things:”

Failure to Instill the Need for Authority Breeds Rebellious Conduct If there are no consequences for wrong conduct, it continues and intensifies. Happened during the reigns of evil kings during Bible times. Same pattern is repeated in secular history. Anti-establishment generations of 60s and 70s are now in leadership positions. Add: Sadly, we must add the church suffers from this same affliction!

Present Generation and Authority Many parents, elders and preachers in today’s churches were raised during a time of rebellion. Principles of authority taught and instilled during the institutionalism fight have not been heard for many years!

Present Generation and Authority Many have grown up without understanding Bible authority. Lack of respect for Scriptural authority is now becoming evident among brethren, as well as other religions!

Concluding Thoughts Departing from His divine pattern is spiritual suicide! We must avoid unauthorized practices and activities. Have we “outgrown” the need for Biblical authority in religion?