Knowing and applying the Bible is the foundation for a great legacy
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Pastor Kelvin remembered that the most influential gift that he ever received was the Thompson Chain Reference Bible that he received for Christmas when he was about twelve years old. It was an early factor in his growth as a student of the Bible.
Today we need to be reminded why the Bible deserves to be treated as a book apart, as a book above, as a holy book when compared to all the other writings of the world. There are many valuable writings deserving of our attention and perusal in this world. But the Bible does not have an equal. It alone is worthy to be the light and guide for our lives. Why?
Pastor Jones pointed out that Paul in writing to Timothy gave some excellent reasons. For one, he reminded Timothy that the Bible is an inspired Book. The Greek literally means “God-breathed.” The Apostle Peter explained the meaning in his second letter.
Men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
2 Peter 1:21 ESV
The word translated “carried along” means to be borne along by the wind as in when a sailboat is pushed by wind. What a great metaphor for the Holy Spirit at work in inspiring Bible writers. He didn’t dictate in a way that obliterated their personalities, but he empowered them as they spoke or wrote.
Another reason that Paul gives for treating the Bible as a special book is that it is the means through which we know God. It is your Bible that
“will instruct you for salvation through faith”
2 Tim. 3:15
Charles Stanley wrote,
The Bible presents what is pleasing and desired by God–it tells how to relate to God, how to relate to others, and how to have peace of heart. It is the key to all understanding about human nature, God’s nature, and about spiritual reality.
Charles Stanley, Leaving a Godly Legacy, p. 89
The third reason that we should treasure our Bibles and put into practice what we read there is related to the topic of this whole sermon series. Using our Bibles well prepares us to have a great legacy. The work that the Bible does in our lives has a purpose. It is …
…that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Tim 3:17 NIV
In other words, ready to do good works that others admire, ready to pass on to children and grandchildren and mentees our good example of righteousness. In short, ready to have a great legacy.
Pastor Jones concluded that the more the Bible shapes our lives, the greater your legacies will be.