Episode 11: Scripture
Nearly every pastor is accustomed to treating the Bible as a resource for content—for preaching and teaching, discipling and counseling. But in their “using” of the Bible, too often we forget to let the Bible use them. Nothing can be more important for the shepherd of God’s people to be nourished and empowered by the very voice of God himself. In this episode, Jared Wilson and Ronnie Martin examine the wisdom practice of reading, studying, and meditating on Scripture, reflecting on how pastoral ministry can only be sustainable when the word is “richly dwelling” in us.
A Bible for the People
Prince Frederick of Wittenberg did not want his university’s best professor to be killed, but he knew there was a real threat. Even before Martin had gone to Worms, Prince Frederick already guessed that he would be condemned by the emperor.
After the trial, Martin was given twenty-one days to change his mind. If he didn’t recant, his books were to be burned, and he was to be turned over to the authorities right away. If Martin was going to survive this verdict, he would need his prince’s help. So Frederick made a plan.
A Word of Hope: Reflecting on Luther’s Lectures on Genesis
I teach church history as part of my profession. In doing so, I’ve discovered it to be exactly what my teachers described—a wonderful means of keeping the faith. Of the figures from our past who have helped me, Martin Luther stands at the top of the list, as he continually points me away from myself […]
How to Understand and Apply the Old Testament: Step 10––Biblical Theology
Once you have established your text, made accurate observations, and discerned your passage’s contexts, it is time to determine your text’s meaning. To do this, it is critical to understand biblical theology, the discipline that considers how the whole Bible progresses, integrates, and climaxes in Jesus.
How to Understand and Apply the Old Testament: Step 9–Literary Context
As you examine your passage in view of the whole book, there are at least three areas you want to keep in mind: literary placement, literary function, and literary details.
Living By the Book
The word of God is sufficient for every season of life. This glorious theme is established in the opening stanza of Psalm 119, which teaches three aspects of living by the book.
Perspicuity and the Pastor
Scripture ought to shape, influence, and profit the pastor as he commits himself to prayer and the ministry of God’s perspicuous Word.
On Memorizing Scripture
Scripture memorization does not come easy for most of us. But don’t be too quick to blame it on a poor memory. Scripture memorization is spiritual warfare.
Scripture’s Clarity: A New Testament Defense
God’s word is understandable. It is expected to be trusted in, defended, proclaimed, and nourishing to those to read it in faith.
Genesis 1 and the Storyline of Scripture
The opening chapter of the Old Testament establishes a framework for understanding all of Scripture.