Theo 104 Reflection
I. Introduction:
Throughout this course of study I have been challenged, and my awareness as a Christian has been heightened. There have been several questions raised that deserve not only an answer, but diligence in the research and understanding necessary to answer with confidence, vigor and enthusiasm. The first question that will be answered is simple in thought, but more complex in true understanding. Does the Bible have authority? Next, we will discuss the importance of personal testimonies in sharing the gospel. Finally, we will look at life as a Christian. If a person is a Christian, does it matter how they live their life? Throughout the following pages these questions will be explored and answered fully, truly and completely.
II. Section One: Does the Bible have authority?
Many people read the Bible with cynicism in their hearts and attempt to be overly critical as a result. This is true for both Christians and non-believers alike. In some ways it seems easier to look for a mistake or try to disprove scripture instead of having true faith. This poses the question. Does the Bible have authority? If so, where does its authority come from and how do we know? There are many arguments that show the Bible’s authority and confirm the scripture is the word of God. The most powerful to me personally is the convicting, convincing and converting power of the message.
The power of the Bible made itself clear to me as I was reading an old Bible I found in my Grandfather’s things after he passed. I was going through some of his things and began to thumb through the dusty old tome. I found myself returning to the pages and eventually sitting in an attic on an old wooden chest reading a book I had never made time for before. Reading through the pages I was reminded of mistakes or wrong turns that I had made in life. I continued to be drawn into the pages of the Gospel according to Matthew. Over the next few weeks I continued to read this...