Desiring God - Part 10
I am currently reading Desiring God by John Piper. Today is my second post on Piper’s chapter about Scripture. Like I said in my last post, this is a really good chapter.
Piper gives us a list in the chapter of some things that Scripture provides for us.
- Scripture provides hope - For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. (Romans 15:4; NIV)
- Scripture provides freedom - Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. (John 8:32; NIV)
- Scripture provides wisdom - The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. (Psalm 19:7b; NIV)
- Scripture provides assurance - I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. (1 John 5:13; NIV)
- Scripture overcomes the Evil One - Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:17; NIV)
Piper gives the example of Martin Luther and his stand for Truth against the establishment of Rome. At his trial, Luther spoke these now famous words.
“Since, then, Your Majesty and Your Lordships desire a simple reply, I will answer without horns and without teeth. Unless I am convicted by Scripture and plain reason - I do not accept the authority of popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other - my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. Here I stand, I cannot do otherwise. God help me.“
All I can say to that is AMEN!