What Did Jesus Say About Scripture?
Scripture holds a significant place in the life of a believer, providing guidance, wisdom, and insight into the character of God. Throughout the New Testament, Jesus references and affirms the authority and importance of Scripture. In this article, we will explore what Jesus said about Scripture and its relevance in our lives today.
Jesus’ View on Scripture:
1. Jesus affirmed the authority of Scripture: In Matthew 5:17-18, Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” Here, Jesus acknowledges the enduring authority of the Old Testament, emphasizing its continued relevance in the lives of His followers.
2. Jesus used Scripture to combat temptation: When tempted the devil in the wilderness, Jesus responded with Scripture, saying, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live bread alone, but every word that comes from the mouth of God'” (Matthew 4:4). This highlights the importance of knowing and applying Scripture in our daily lives, as it acts as a weapon against spiritual attacks and provides spiritual nourishment.
3. Jesus emphasized the fulfillment of Scripture: Throughout His ministry, Jesus repeatedly fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating that He was the promised Messiah. In Luke 24:27, Jesus explained to His disciples, “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” Jesus’ life and teachings aligned with the prophecies of Scripture, reinforcing their divine inspiration and pointing to His identity as the Son of God.
4. Jesus used Scripture to teach and correct: In conversations with the religious leaders of His time, Jesus often quoted Scripture to support His teachings and correct their misunderstandings. For example, when questioned about divorce, Jesus referred to the creation account in Genesis, stating, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female?” (Matthew 19:4). Jesus highlighted the authority of Scripture as the foundation for understanding God’s intentions and addressing moral issues.
FAQs:
1. Does Jesus’ endorsement of the Old Testament mean that we should ignore the New Testament?
No, Jesus’ affirmation of the Old Testament does not disregard the importance of the New Testament. The New Testament serves as a fulfillment and completion of the Old Testament, providing additional teachings and insights into the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Both the Old and New Testaments work together to form the complete revelation of God’s redemptive plan.
2. How can we apply Jesus’ view of Scripture in our lives?
First, we should prioritize reading and studying the Bible regularly. By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we gain a deeper understanding of God’s character and His will for our lives. Second, we should approach Scripture with reverence and humility, recognizing its authority in our lives. Finally, we should strive to apply the teachings and principles found in Scripture to our daily choices and actions, allowing it to shape our character and guide our decisions.
3. Can we trust that the Scriptures we have today accurately reflect Jesus’ teachings?
Yes, extensive scholarship, historical evidence, and the work of dedicated scribes and translators throughout history have preserved the integrity of the Scriptures. The Bible we have today is a reliable representation of the original manuscripts, conveying the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Additionally, the Holy Spirit works in the hearts of believers to illuminate the truth found in Scripture, guiding us into all understanding.
In conclusion, Jesus affirmed the authority and importance of Scripture throughout His ministry. He recognized its enduring relevance, used it to combat temptation, fulfilled its prophecies, and relied on it to teach and correct. As followers of Christ, we should also hold Scripture in high regard, studying it diligently and applying its teachings to our lives. By doing so, we can experience the transformative power of the Word of God and grow in our relationship with Him.