How to Have a Sure Word in Difficult Days

Sermon OverviewScripture Passage: 2 Timothy 3:12-17We are living in a dangerous time of apostasy; it is crucial that we put our faith in Scripture, our sure word in difficult days.2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…”The Bible is the very breath of God, fully inspired by Him. It is not a partial or progressive inspiration; it is full and complete. The Bible gives us instruction for righteousness.Because the Bible is inspired and instructive, it is instrumental in several aspects of our spiritual lives.First, the Scriptures are instrumental in salvation.Our friends are not saved by our philosophies, ideas, or testimonies. Rather, it is only by the saving grace of Jesus Christ, stated in Scripture. The Word of God must be shared with people in order for them to be saved.The Scriptures are also instrumental in our sanctification.This does not mean the Bible makes us sinless; rather, it makes us mature.Adrian Rogers says, “You’ll never be a strong, mature Christian until you get in the Word of God.”Third, the Scriptures are necessary for service.God does not send us into spiritual war unarmed; the Bible equips us for service, like soldiers in a battle. Our faith is not blind or superstitious; it is rooted in evidence. There is historical and scientific evidence in the Bible; it is an indestructible book that has lasted through the ages. It is meant to be treasured.Faith that is rooted in evidence goes beyond evidence. God is good to give us evidence, but there comes a time when we must go beyond evidence. Faith is more than an intellectual response to facts; it is a moral response to what God says through these facts. This is when faith then becomes its own best evidence.A life built up by the Bible is not easily shaken by difficulty; if we are on the right foundation, we can face any fearful thing life throws our way.Apply it to your lifeAdrian Rogers says, “If you are a fearful saint in these desperate days in which we live, get a bulldog grip on the Word of God because you’re going to need it.”