Called to Ministry, Called to ScriptureSmakprov

As we acknowledge Scripture’s unique nature, we must affirm several core convictions about it that establish it as the foundation for our life and ministry.

First, we believe the Bible is inspired. In other words, God is the divine author of Scripture. God directed his chosen authors through his Spirit to record his sacred Word. Divine inspiration means that every piece, part, and passage is significant and eternal.

Additionally, we believe that God’s Word is inerrant or “without error.” Scripture is wholly and completely true in every word. It is perfect and pure as it reflects the character of God.

Finally, we believe the Bible is infallible. This means it is not only true but also trustworthy. It won’t misguide or mislead you in any way. It is right and reliable since God “cannot lie” and “the word of the Lord proves true” (Ps. 18:30 ESV).

These three core convictions also mean that the Bible functions as God’s Word in its authority and sufficiency. Therefore, we must build our lives and ministries on the truth of Scripture. Because of its divine nature and infinite value, we must treasure and trust the Bible as our source of spiritual delight.

Not only is it the source of our spiritual delight, but God’s Word is also the source of our spiritual development. Scripture is essential for every aspect of our spiritual life.

While we may live in a world with unlimited options, there is no substitute for God's Word when it comes to our relationship with the Lord. It is the source of our salvation as it reveals the truth of God’s holiness, man’s sinfulness, and Christ’s forgiveness. The “sacred Scriptures” provide the “wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” God works through the power of his Word to grant us new life and to be “born again.”

The Bible is not only God’s chosen means for our spiritual birth but also his chosen means for our spiritual growth. Just as our bodies require physical nutrition, our spiritual nourishment comes from a steady consumption of God’s Word. Therefore, “like newborn infants,” you should “desire the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow up into your salvation.” As we mature, we must grow in our knowledge and understanding of the Word so that we may be “complete, equipped for every good work.” A growing hunger for God’s Word develops our spiritual discernment. Ultimately, the Lord sanctifies us and makes us more like Jesus through his divine truth.

To be spiritually dependent on the Lord and his Word for our development means everything we do must be informed and infused with Scripture. The Bible has the power to supernaturally transform our hearts as we apply it to the various aspects of our life and ministry.