Standing on Truth: Scripture, the Divinity of Christ, and Applied Faith


Last week, we reflected on Augustine and the historical battles that forged what we consider orthodoxy—the universally accepted, foundational truths of Christian faith. Chief among these truths are two pillars: the authority of Scripture as God’s true Word and the absolute divinity of Jesus Christ.


Yet today, it feels like we have come full circle. Culture and modern systems frequently attempt to re-debate the Bible's authority, subtly reshaping God's standards to fit human preferences. But Isaiah reminds us of an unchanging reality:

"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever." — Isaiah 40:8 (echoed in 1 Peter 1:23–25)

The Best Translation: The Applied Version

People often ask, "What is the best translation of the Bible?" The answer is simple: the applied version.

Christianity does not require us to master every complex theological mystery before we obey. It asks us to live out what we already clearly understand. There is enough clear instruction in Scripture to transform our daily lives completely if we simply put it into practice.

Who Do You Say Jesus Is?

The second orthodox pillar is that Jesus is God—not merely a good teacher, a prophet, or "a god." The Lord God Almighty who declares "I AM" in the Old Testament is the same Christ of the New Testament.

While society pressures us to draw lines of debate around current cultural issues, the early church knew the real line must be drawn much deeper:

  • Is the Bible the inspired, authoritative Word of God for our decisions?

  • Is Jesus Christ truly God?

Living as "To Be" Christians

The Christian life requires action, but action must flow out of identity. "To be" verbs describe existence. Saying "I am a Christian" means your primary condition has changed—you were far away, but now you have been brought near through Christ (Ephesians 2:13).

Early Christians transformed their world not through political force or majority consensus, but by existing as transformed people. They loved one another, maintained complete integrity, and remained faithful to Christ even under threat of losing their livelihoods or lives.

Questions for Reflection

As you walk through this week, consider these questions:

  • Do you accept Scripture as the final authority over your personal choices?

  • Do you recognize Jesus as Lord God Almighty in your daily life?

  • Is your faith visible in your compassion, honesty, and love for others?

Join us next week as we finish our journey and explore the remarkable impact these early believers ultimately made on the world!

Originally delivered 2023.02.12
Location: Caldwell, KS 67022, USA

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