Authority of the Bible: Circular Reasoning?

10,000 Sermon Illustrations King’s Authority

King’s Authority

Many years ago a primitive tribe observed a custom of electing a king every 7 years. During his reign he was given authority to do whatever he wanted. But there was one hitch! At the end of his brief reign he was put to death to make way for a new leader. Believe it or not, there were always men who were willing to exchange their lives for 7 years of power and indulgence.

Daily Walk, August 6, 1993

What does the authority of the Bible mean?

Because all of the words of the Bible are God’s words, to obey or disobey the words is the same to obey or disobey God.

Illustration: ,

Where is this the “authority of the Bible” found in the scripture?

The words of the Old Testament and New Testament are the words of God. , , , , ,

1001 Illustrations that Connect Illustration 24: When Word Trumps Theology

WHEN WORD TRUMPS THEOLOGY

Topics: Authority of Scripture; Preaching; Theology; Truth

References: 2 Timothy 3:16; 4:2

It has been my earnest endeavor ever since I have preached the Word, never to keep back a single doctrine that I believe to be taught of God. It is time that we had done with the old and rusty systems that have so long curbed the freeness of religious speech.

The Arminian trembles to go an inch beyond Arminius or Wesley, and many a Calvinist refers to John Gill or John Calvin as an ultimate authority. It is time that the systems were broken up, and that there was sufficient grace in all our hearts to believe everything taught in God’s Word, whether it was taught by either of these men or not.

If God teaches it, it is enough. If it is not in the Word, away with it! Away with it! But if it be in the Word, agreeable or disagreeable, systematic or disorderly, I believe it.

—Charles Haddon Spurgeon, in a sermon delivered at Exeter Hall, London (March 1860)

The word of God is to be obeyed. ,

Illustration: ,

How do I answer a skeptic in regards to their concern?

If you believe that the Bible is the highest authority because of what it says about itself, then this is circular reasoning.

First, most arguments about ultimate authority can be seen to be circular.

Second, circularity of argument does not necessarily make the argument wrong.

Third, if the Bible has to appeal to another source for authority, then the Bible itself is not the ultimate authority. Some measure of circularity must be allowed.

How should I respond to this truth: the authority of the Bible?

Faith & Obedience: With complete faith that the scriptures are the means to Christian development for every good work. , ()

Conclusion:

How can I believe and obey the authority of the Bible?

Illustration: Saul in - Our opposition to the authority of the word of God is rooted in our very nature.

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Specificity:

As you read, ask yourself, “Why do I struggle with this command?” ()

Command: Bear Ye One Another’s Burdens - Why do I struggle with this command?

Am I able by God’s gracious Spirit?

(The assumption you approach the scriptures with is a - that you are not complete and you can and need to grow)

Is it that I am not in relationship with people of God closely enough to even know these realities?

Is it that I have hidden sins that must be confessed?

Is it that I am so insecure in Christ that to know the burdens of others means I would have to be transparent - and I am simply unwilling?

Is it my pride or envy?

How has the finished work of Christ made obedience to this command possible?

Given to me His Spirit

Given to me a security in Christ and not in what others think

Put me into relationship with other Christians for this to take place