Lesson 8: The Right Use of Scripture

Review

Primary Principle: The Bible demands that we follow its example in using Scripture rightly.

Unpacking the Principle

  • Definition: The “use” of Scripture refers to making disciples from the Bible by using it to develop doctrine, determine ethics, and order worship.
  • The right use of Scripture is the only antidote to the wrong use of Scripture.
  • The right use of Scripture involves using the Bible as God, the Author, intends.
  • The Bible’s examples teaches us to...
The Old Testament
  • Use OT narratives as true stories that reveal God, culminate in Christ, and edify the church.
  • Use the Mosaic Law as a contextual law code that reveals God, is fulfilled by Christ, and instructs the church in love.
  • Use OT promises and prophecies as trustworthy revelation that reveals God, is fulfilled in and by Christ, and encourages and warns the church.
  • Use OT wisdom literature as a pathway for flourishing that reveals God, is fulfilled by Christ, and guides the church.
The New Testament
  • Use the Gospels as covenant-establishing testimonies that fulfill the OT, reveal Christ, and establish the church.
  • Use NT epistles as contextual letters from Christ for the whole church.
  • Use the book of Revelation as a trustworthy revelation from Christ that reveals Christ to encourage and warn the church.

Interpretation