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“We Can Understand The Bible Alike”
Categories: Gospel, The Bible
Many today have the mindset that God is pleased with multiple interpretations of the Scriptures. They believe wholeheartedly that God gave us His word, apparently not to be understood alike, but differently! Interestingly, if any interpretations contradict, it does not matter for, “We are all going to heaven, just taking different roads,” or so they say. Further, one only has to travel a few blocks to note the different denominations and religious groups; each with their own name, doctrines, beliefs, etc. One can only imagine the chaos this would cause if each group were to worship together under the same roof!
The above truth is the result of false teachers and their deceived followers. It is also a misconception that there may be at least two interpretations on any given topic. Either it is the case one is right and the other wrong or both are wrong! Therefore, as we approach a topic of this nature, it would do us good to agree on the following: First, the Scriptures are truth (John 17.17). This does not mean that there are several truths (interpretations); this means there is only one truth. Consequently, all other sources are false. Second, they are inspired (2 Tim. 3.16-17) and within them contain no contradictions. It is also important to note that since the Scriptures come from God, multiple interpretations cannot exist or else God would be the author of confusion and chaos. Finally, since the word of God will judge us (John 12.48), this raises the question, “If multiple interpretations suffice, which interpretation will God judge us by?”
Next, since the facts above are obviously true, it is vital to our salvation to accept the following: God commands us to understand His will for us (Eph. 5.17). To understand, we must first obey the command to study His word (2 Tim. 2.15) and to grow in the knowledge of the Scriptures (1 Peter 3.15, 2 Peter 3.18; Heb. 5.11-6.2). His will can only be made known when we read (Eph. 3.3-4). Thus, all can equally share in the blessings of God through His word when we read, study and learn His will (John 6.44-45). Finally, if we are searching the Scriptures daily (Acts 17.11) and testing Bible teachers’ words against God’s word (1 John 4.1), we can come to understand the Bible alike. Paul commanded, “…all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment” (1 Cor. 1.10). God’s desire for us is to “…maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all…” (Eph. 4.1-6). These truths prove, therefore, that we can understand the Bible alike! -Bryan Garlock
