So You Believe the Bible is Sufficient and Inerrant? Prove it.

I'll admit right away that the title of this blogpost is clickbait. So up front let me make it clear that I believe what Scripture says about itself:

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

"Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God."
                                                                                     Matthew 4:4
                                                                                    Deuteronomy 8:3

"The law of the Lord is perfect,  reviving the soul;
the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;
the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes;
the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever;
the rules of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey and drippings from the honeycomb.
Moreover, by them is your servant is warned;
In keeping them there is great reward."
                                                           Psalm 19:7-11




As I read and listen to many "evangelical" voices these days, most of whom seem to share my view of the Scriptures,  I see a disconnect between their words, actions, and demeanors and the Bible they declare to be their rule of faith.

So-called "doctrine" and "theology" can become an end in themselves.  Jesus told the Pharisees that they were searching the Scriptures and totally missing him. The end result of studying the Bible should never be knowledge alone, but changes wrought in us through the Word by the Holy Spirit.

One glaring example I'm seeing these days is how we use our words.  Whether it be a private conversation, a political issue on Twitter, a personal email,  a news interview, or a proclamation from the pulpit, have we forgotten what Jesus said about the origin of the words that come from our mouths, or how James tells us how dangerous and destructive our tongues can be?

I'm not talking here about legitimate rebukes,  such as the way Jesus, Paul, Jude, Peter, and John use stern language for the purpose of necessary correction. I'm talking about insults, half truths, and sometimes outright lies that are repeated and reveled in by those who profess Christianity.

How about we read  the New Testament over and over, with a heart willing to change.  No other agendas.

"Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom."
                                             James 3:13

You believe the Scriptures?  Prove it.