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‍Introduction

In this first session of our series, we address the foundational question, "What is the Bible?" Understanding the nature and significance of the Bible is crucial for every Christian, as it is the primary source of our knowledge about God, salvation, and how we should live.

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Key Points

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1. Definition of the Bible

• The Bible is the inspired Word of God, consisting of the Old Testament and the New Testament.
• It is a collection of 66 books written by various authors over approximately 1,500 years.
• The Bible is unique in its divine origin and human authorship.

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2. Inspiration of the Bible

• The Bible is "God-breathed", meaning it is inspired by God.
  2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV) — 16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
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• The authors of the Bible wrote under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, ensuring the writings were without error in their original manuscripts
  2 Peter 1:20–21 (ESV) — 20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

• This process of inspiration does not override the authors' personalities or styles but guarantees the accuracy of the message.

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3. Authority of the Bible

• As the Word of God, the Bible holds ultimate authority over all aspects of faith and conduct.
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• It is the final arbiter on matters of doctrine, ethics, and lifestyle.
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• Believers are called to submit to the authority of Scripture in every area of their lives
  Hebrews 4:12 (ESV) — 12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

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4. Clarity of the Bible

• The Bible is clear in its teachings, especially concerning salvation and essential doctrines.
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• While some passages may be difficult to understand, the core message of the gospel is accessible to all believers.
  Psalm 19:7 (ESV) — 7 The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;
  2 Timothy 3:15 (ESV) — 15 and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
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• The Holy Spirit helps believers understand and apply the Scriptures.
  John 16:13 (ESV) — 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.

5. Necessity of the Bible

• The Bible is necessary for knowing God's will, understanding salvation, and growing in spiritual maturity.
  Romans 10:17 (ESV) — 17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
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• It provides the guidance needed to live a godly life and make decisions that honor God.
  Psalm 119:105 (ESV) — 105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

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6. Sufficiency of the Bible

• The Bible contains all the revelation necessary for salvation and godly living.
  2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV) — 16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
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• No additional revelations or human traditions are needed to supplement Scripture.
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• Believers can rely on the Bible for all matters of faith and practice.

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Practical Applications

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1. Daily Reading and Study

• Regularly engage with the Bible through reading, study, and meditation to grow in understanding and faith.
• Use study aids such as commentaries, concordances, and study Bibles to deepen comprehension.

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2. Memorization and Meditation

• Memorize key verses to strengthen faith and aid in spiritual battles.
• Meditate on Scripture to internalize its truths and apply them to daily life.

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3. Application to Life

• Apply biblical principles to all areas of life, including relationships, work, and decision-making.
• Allow the Bible to shape your worldview and values.

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4. Teach and Share

• Share biblical truths with others through teaching, mentoring, and witnessing.
• Encourage others to read and understand the Bible for themselves.

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Key Scriptures

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2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV) — 16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

2 Peter 1:20–21 (ESV) — 20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

Psalm 19:7 (ESV) — 7 The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;

Hebrews 4:12 (ESV) — 12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

John 16:13 (ESV) — 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.

Psalm 119:105 (ESV) — 105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

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Conclusion

This session lays the foundation for understanding the Bible as the inspired, authoritative, clear, necessary, and sufficient Word of God. By grasping these essential truths, believers are equipped to grow in their faith and live according to God's will.

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Written By
Mawuli Tsikata
Lead Pastor, Grace Centre

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