koinonia

A recent article in a newspaper from Grand Rapids, Michigan illustrates how many Christian colleges have replaced the sure foundation of God’s Word with the fallible and changing word of man. The article focused on the upcoming celebration of the 150th anniversary of Darwin’s book, On the Origin of Species, and how colleges deal with Darwin’s theories. The newspaper interviewed professors at seven local colleges in the Grand Rapids area. Of the four ‘Christian’ college professors, only one of them stated that they don’t buy Darwin’s theory as far as molecules-to-man. The other professors stated that Darwin’s theory is central to their teaching of biology. One professor stated that God’s Word in Genesis cannot be viewed as a literal account of creation. Its purpose is simply to tell us what our place in the world is.

The article interviewed one student who is a graduate of CLA who has resisted the pressure and propaganda and false teaching he has received at the ‘Christian’ college he attends. Thankfully he has learned to make God’s Word his sure foundation.

Here is a link to the above mentioned article: http://tinyurl.com/ybjc53t

Here is a link to my chapel talk: http://tinyurl.com/y9tekw7

The Westminster Confession of Faith (1647) first deals with Scripture and then second deals with God the Trinity. This is not to make Scripture of more importance than God. But very wisely the writers of the confession realized that before we can speak of God we must know how it is that we can even know God. On the firm foundation of God’s Word we can then speak with confidence and assurance about the God who can be known and has revealed himself.

My first chapel address this year comes from 2 Timothy 3:10-17. Paul and Timothy had known each other for about 20 years by the time Paul wrote 2 Timothy. Timothy was not a novice and yet there were important things that Timothy still needed to learn. And so it is most interesting that Paul in giving encouragement to Timothy again reminds him of the sure foundation that is found in God’s Word.

It is this sure foundation that enables us to see in a darkened world. It is this sure foundation that enables us to overcome our own sin and temptation and deal with the trials that God sovereignly brings in our lives.

May your desire to know God through His Word be increased. May the Lord enable you to see all your studies from the perspective that His Word gives.

Outline of chapel talk:

I. The context is the all the suffering and challenges that Paul faced that Timothy will eventually face. (10-13)

A. Paul speaks of Timothy of being familiar with his teaching, conduct, goal in life, faith, patience, love, steadfastness, persecutions, and sufferings.

Timothy had known Paul for almost 20 years by the time Paul wrote 2 Timothy. So Timothy was not a teenager, but a man probably in his middle to late 30’s or 40’s by this time. Timothy had already been involved in many aspects of Paul’s mission. But there were still lessons that Timothy needed to learn; he need to still grow in his service to the Lord.

Application: You are not in the same position obviously as Timothy but there is certainly in his life an example and encouragement for you.

B. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. (12)

C. A growing polarization – evil people will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived

D. Application – 3 challenges you will face

1. Increased challenges to your faith from professors, false teachers, and the world in general.

2. Personal trials you may face.

3. The temptations of the world – money, fame, relationships, etc.

II. The Command: But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of. (14-15)

A. Knowing from whom (plural – Timothy’s mother, grandmother, Paul and perhaps others) (14)

B. and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Application: This is the challenge that you will face as you continue your studies, begin your calling, and simply live in an increasingly apostate nation.

III. Concrete Foundation: The Inspired Word of God (16-17).

A. All Scripture is given by inspiration – literally it is God-breathed.

1. At least 3,000 times we read in Scripture, Thus saith the LORD.

2. Either Scripture is what it says that it is, or it is the biggest lie and piece of garbage.

B. Scripture is useful:

1. Teaching
2. Reproof (an expression of strong disapproval)
3. Correction (or improvement)
4. Training in righteousness

C. So that you as a man or woman of God [dedicated to God] may be capable and equipped for every good work.

Conclusion: Continue in what you have learned.

Rest in the solid foundation of the inspired and infallible Word of God.

Keep your focus on what Christ has done and continues to do for you.