YE DO ERR, NOT KNOWING THE SCRIPTURES
By John C. Carpenter
The scriptures instruct us, The same day came to him the Sadducees,
which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him, Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother
shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. Now there were with us seven brethren: and the first, when he had married
a wife, deceased, and, having no issue, left his wife unto his brother: Likewise the second also, and the third, unto the seventh.
And last of all the woman died also. Therefore in the resurrection whose wife shall she be of the seven? for they all had her. Jesus
answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God (Matthew 22:23-29).
In verse 29 above,
the word err is translated from the Greek word planao, which means to cause to roam from safety, truth, or virtue, to go astray, to
seduce, or to wander. The word knowing is translated from the Greek word eido, which means to see literally or figuratively, to be
aware of, consider, be known, perceive, or understand. The word scriptures is translated from the Greek word graphe, which means a
document, holy Writ or its contents or a statement in it, to grave, or to describe]. Not knowing the scriptures, that is, not understanding
the scriptures and what God is saying through them, leads to error, which is roaming from the truth expressed in the scriptures, or,
more accurately, holy writ.
Many believers in Christ are learning and accepting error for four reasons. First, many believers
in Christ do not study and understand the scriptures for themselves, and, therefore, do not know when they are being taught error
by others. Secondly, many pastors, as well, for various reasons, do not study and interpret the scriptures for themselves, but depend
upon the teaching of others who are teaching error. Depending upon others can turn out to be a disaster. Third, many, lay and professionals
alike, do not study the scriptures for themselves because they are lazy. Studying the scriptures takes time, effort, and energy, and
many in these modern times are not willing to do what it takes to correctly understand the scriptures. They take the easy way out
of their bible study and interpretation by seeking the teachings of others who may be promoting error. The fourth reason for error
is that the scriptures are not being read in context. Much understanding is missed if the bible is not read in its context. As Jesus
taught, not knowing and understanding the scriptures leads to error. In this article, I want to address and attempt to correct, some
of the more common errors circulating throughout the modern Christian church.
WHO IS THE THIEF WHO STEALS, KILLS, AND DESTROYS?
In
the first error that we can discuss, many do not understand who the thief truly is in chapter 10 of the epistle of John. The context
of this study is Jesus' healing of a blind man and the unbelief of the Jews. Jewish church leaders, the Pharisees, did not believe
that the blind man had been healed by Jesus, nor did they believe that Jesus was the Son of God, or that He was capable of performing
such miracles.
After healing a man who was blind from his birth (John 9:1-11), the Pharisees did not accept the fact that Jesus
had healed the man: Therefore said they unto him [the healed blind man], How were thine eyes opened? He answered and said, A man that
is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and
I received sight. Then said they unto him, Where is he? He said, I know not. They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was
blind. And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes. Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had
received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see. Therefore said some of the Pharisees,This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And
there was a division among them. They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said,
He is a prophet. But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the
parents of him that had received his sight (John 9:10-18).
The Jewish leaders continued in their unbelief: Then again called
they [the Pharisees] the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner. He answered
and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. Then said they to him
again, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes? He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear [understand and
believe that I am the Christ]: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples? (John 9:24-27).
In His anger
at their unbelief, Jesus then said to the Pharisees, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and
that they which see might be made blind. And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we
blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see [understand and believe in Christ
and the Son of God]; therefore your sin remaineth [because you do not believe in the Son of God] (John 9:39-41).
Jesus continued
His conversation with the unbelieving Jewish leaders in an effort to convince them He was iindeed the Christ: Verily, verily, I say
unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But
he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth
his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him:
for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. This
parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them. Verily, verily, I say unto
you [Pharisees], I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but
for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am
the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the
sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The
hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known
of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which
are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. Therefore
doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again (John 10:1-17).
In a further effort to make His
point, Jesus flat out contrasted Himself with the Pharisees. Christ told the Pharisees they were not chosen nor called by Christ,
but climbed into the sheepfold [became spiritual leaders] by some other way than through Christ, and as false servants, they place
themselves in importance before Christ. Jesus also described the Pharisees as strangers and thieves who came only to steal, kill,
and destroy, that they were hirelings, they were not the true shepherd of the true sheep, and the true sheep did not hear their voice
nor respond to them. Jesus also said that when they, false leaders, see the wolf [predator of the sheep] coming, they leave the sheep
and flee, and the sheep are therefore scattered. Jesus told the Pharisees that, as hirelings, they flee the sheep because they do
not truly care for the sheep. Jesus described Himself as the true and only door into the sheepfold, and that when the sheep enter
the fold through Him, they shall be saved, shall go in and out of the fold, and find pasture. Christ also said that He came that the
sheep might have life, He is the good shepherd who knows His own sheep, and they know Him, and that He knows the Father, the Father
knows Him, He lays down His life for the sheep, and therefore does His Father love Him.
Clearly, Christ was contrasting Himself
with the Pharisees, whom He explained were false leaders, as well as all false individuals, ministers, and leaders within [and without]
the church. Argument is often made by many that this "thief" who steals, kills, and destroys is satan. I have heard this misinterpretation
dozens, if not hundreds of times. Truly, Satan is behind the actions of these false individuals, but scripture makes it clear that
these thieves and hirelings referred to in our subject verses are men, that is, false servants of God, and not satan himself. This
idea is verified throughout old testament scriptures. Jeremiah told us Therefore, behold, I am against the prophets, saith the LORD,that steal my words every one from his neighbour (Jer 23:30), Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!
saith the LORD (Jer 23:1), and Many pastors have destroyed my vineyard, they have trodden my portion under foot, they have made my
pleasant portion a desolate wilderness (Jer 12:10). Referring to the shepherds [false religious leaders] of Israel (Ezek 34:2), Ezekiel
also said, Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: but ye feed not the flock (Ezek 34:3). Isaiah
told us As for my people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, they [the false pastors and teachers] which
lead thee cause thee to err, and destroy the way of thy paths (Isa 3:12). Without a doubt, scriptures make it clear that false leaders,
the false apostles, prophets, pastors, evangelists, and teachers, are the ones who are stealing, killing and destroying from the flock
of God, and not satan. Yet, many who have learned and accepted this error continue to argue that satan is the thief who steals, kills,
and destroys. The scriptures teach us otherwise.
FAITH COMETH BY HEARING, AND HEARING BY THE WORD OF GOD
One verse that
is massively misunderstood and misinterpreted is found in Romans, Chapter 10, and verse 17. The apostle Paul wrote the church
in Rome these words: For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call
upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not
believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall
they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring
glad tidings of good things! But they have not all obeyed [hearkened to, be obedient to, responded to] the gospel. For Esaias saith,
Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God [Rom 10:12-17].
In verse
17 above, many believe, in error, that the word refers to the scriptures, or bible. They interpret these scriptures to mean that faith
is the result of hearing the word, or bible preached. Individuals do receive faith from reading and hearing the bible and gospel message
preached, but in the context of our subject verses, this word does not refer to the bible, but to the speaking, movement, and operation
of the Holy Spirit. As Paul teaches here, salvation is the result of calling upon the Lord, calling upon the Lord is the result of
believing, believing is the result of hearing, hearing is the result of preaching, and preachers preach because they are sent by theword [Greek, Rhema, the supernatural, powerful movement, operation, and working of the Holy Spirit; not a reference to the bible].
If we believe that the word is a reference to the bible, then it is the bible that sends men to preach, resulting in faith and salavation.
As the scriptures teach, it is not the bible that calls and sends men to minister, preach, and serve the Lord [Also see Eph 1:13,
Col 1:5].
Peter clarifies this teaching in this verse: But the word [Greek, Rhema, the operation of the Holy Spirit] of the Lord
endureth for ever. And this is the word [Greek, Rhema, the operation of the Holy Spirit] which by the gospel is preached unto you (1
Peter 1:25). Here, Peter clarifies that it is the word, or rhema, that sends men to preach the gospel message, resulting in hearing,
faith and salvation, and not the bible.
Other scriptures verify that it is not the bible, but the operation, movement, and working
of the Holy Spirit is what sends men to preach, which results in the hearing of the gospel, resulting in faith and, therefore, salvation.The apostle Peter instructs us, Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth [of the gospel] through the [working, movement
and operation of the Holy] Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Beingborn again, not of corruptible seed , but of incorruptible [the seed of Jesus Christ and the gospel; See Luke 8:11, 13], by the word [Greek,Logos, a reference to Christ and the gospel of Christ, and not the bible] of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. For all flesh
is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: But the word [Greek,Rhema, the working, movement, and operation of the Holy Spirit] of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word [Greek, Rhema,the working, movement, and operation of the Holy Spirit] which by the gospel is preached unto you (1 Peter 1:22-25; verse 25 is a
specific reference to our subject verses).
We must remember the scriptures teach that the bible [or word as the bible is mistakenly
referred to] is not the source of our salvation and eternal life: the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me.
Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him
ye believe not. Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have [will receive] eternal life: and [but] they are they which testify
of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life (John 5:37-40). Scriptures teach that eternal life is clearly found in
Christ [based upon faith], not the bible [based upon works]. The scriptures do teach that the word, that is, Christ and His gospel
message, are the source of salvation and eternal life. Look what the apostle Paul wrote to the Roman believers: For I am not ashamed
of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power [Greek, dunamis, force, miraculous power, ability, mighty deed, strength, mighty wonderful
work; a clear reference to the operation of the Holy Spirit] of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first,
and also to the Greek. For therein [the truth of the gospel message] is the righteousness of God revealed from faith [of the Jew] to
faith [of the Greek or Gentile]: as it is written, The just [both Jew and Gentile alike] shall live [eternally] by faith (Romans 1:16-17).
The gospel message is the believer's source of salvation, and not the bible.
THE WORLDS WERE FRAMED BY THE WORD OF GOD
Although
faith is the context and focus of the thirteenth chapter of the book of Hebrews, we find a most curious statement in verse 3. The
debated author of the book of Hebrews wrote, Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For
by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things
which are seen were not made of things which do appear (Hebrews 11:1-3). In verse 3 the word worlds is translated from the Greek wordaion, which means an age, perpetuity, beginning of the world, regulation, duration, or the world beginning, while the word framed
is translated from the Greek word katartizo, which means to complete thoroughly, repair, adjust, frame, mend, make perfect, fresh,
complete, or to restore.
Also in verse 3, the word word is translated from the Greek word rhema, and means an utterance, a matter
or topic especially of narration, command, or dispuste, or a saying; and specifically refers to the operation of the Holy Spirit].
For many believers in Christ, when the word of God is mentioned, they always think that this is a reference to the bible, or holy
scriptures, but as we find in the context of our subject verses, as well as the conext of the entire new testament, that rhema refers
not to the bible, but to the speaking, movement, and operation of the Holy Spirit of God. The creation and regulation of the physical
creation and its' duration and regulation was certainly not accomplished by the bible, but by the supernatural, explosive speaking,
operation, working, and moving of God's Holy Spirit.
IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD
Another common misunderstanding is found
in chapter 1 of John. The apostle John wrote, In the beginning was the Word [Greek, logos, the Divine Expression, that is, Christ],
and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without
him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and
the darkness comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness
of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was
the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world
knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the
sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of
man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the
Father,) full of grace and truth. John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me
is preferred before me: for he was before me. And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the law was given
by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ (John 1:1-17). Again, when the Word is mentioned in a bible verse, many believers
automatically assume that this is a reference to the bible, and that, in this context, the bible was in the beginning. But, in our
subject verses, John makes it clear that the Word referred to here is not the bible, but none other than Jesus Christ. It was and
is Jesus Christ who was with God, was God, was in the beginning with God, all things were created by Him, was [the only source of]
eternal life, was the light of men, lighteth every man that cometh into the world, the world was made by Him,, came to His own, the
Jews, but his own received Him not, gave the power to become, through faith, sons of God, was made flesh and dwelt among us, was full
of grace and truth, of His fjulness we have all received, and that grace and truth came by Him. All these verses refer to Jesus Christ,
not the bible. The apostle John clarifies who the Word is in his writing: I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that
sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, andon his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he clothed with a vesture dipped in
blood: and his name is called The Word of God (Revelation 19:11-13). According to John, it is Jesus Christ who was called Faithful
and True, in righteousness He doth judge and make war, His eyes were as a flame of Fire, on His head were many crowns, He was clothed
with a vesture dipped in blood, and His name is called the Word of God. Jesus Christ is the Word of God.
FOR THE WORD OF GOD
IS QUICK AND POWERFUL
More often mistranslated and misunderstood verses can be found in the book of Hebrews. We read For the
word [Greek, logos; i.e., Christ] of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing
asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is
there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to
do. Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession (Hebrews
4:12-14).
In verse 12, “word” is translated from the Greek word “Logos,” which does not refer to the bible [as many believe],
but to Jesus Christ, who is quick and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul
and spirit, and the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. These verses also refer to hisand him, the great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God. Do we really think that the bible is quick
and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and the joints and marrow,
and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart? Does the bible really do these things? Obviously not.
RECEIVE WITH
MEEKNESS THE ENGRAFTED WORD
James, the half brother of Jesus, also wrote some verses which are often misunderstood. James wroteWherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word [Greek, logos, the
Divine Expression, that is, Christ], which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving
your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect
law of liberty [the gospel message], and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall
be blessed in his deed (James 1:21-25). As we can see, the bible is not the engrafted word; Christ and the gospel of Jesus Christ
are. Christ chastened and educated some Pharisees who continued to depend upon works of the law for salvation, and, therefore, continued
to miss the one true source of salvation and eternal life. The Lord said, the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness
of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. And ye have not his word [Greek, Logos, the Divine Expression,
Jesus Christ] abiding in you: for whom [Christ] he [God the Father] hath sent, him [Jesus Christ] ye believe not. Search the scriptures;
for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life (John
5:37-40). Christ plainly teaches here that eternal life is available through Him only, and not through works of the law or in the
scriptures. The scriptures simply testify of Christ, who is the only source of eternal life.
Paul also clarifies for us what
the word of truth really is, and it is not the bible, as many think. Paul wrote the Ephesian church, Blessed be the God and Father
of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen
us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto
the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his
grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according
to the riches of his grace; Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of
his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might
gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even [specifically]in him: In whom
also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel
of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted after that ye
heard the word [Greek, Logos, the Divine expression, Jesus Christ] of truth [Greek, aletheia, truth, verity, true as not concealed],
the gospel [Greek, euaggelion, a good message, that is, the gospel, to announce good news, to declare or show the gospel] of your
salvation [Greek, soteria, to rescue or bring to safety physically or morally, to deliver, to bring health, to save, or saving; a
deliverer, that is God or Christ, the Savior]: in whom [Christ] also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit
of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory (Ephesians
1:3-14). The apostle Paul wrote the church in Rome and referenced the supernatural power of the gospel: So, as much as in me is, I
am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it [the gospel] is the
power [Greek, dunamis, force, miraculous power, ability, might, or strength; we get the English word dynamite] of God unto salvation
to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith
to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith (Romans 1:15-17). The word of truth is not the bible, but the truth of the
gospel, or good news, of Christ and salvation through faith in Him. As Paul explained, it is this gospel that is God's miraculous
power to bring about salvation.
BORN AGAIN, BY THE WORD OF GOD
Another area that often causes error can be found in 1 Peter.
Peter wrote to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, Forasmuch as ye know that ye were
not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; Butwith the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation
of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, Who by him [Christ] do believe in God, that raised him [Christ] up from
the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth [of
Christ and the gospel] through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:
Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word [Greek, logos, the Divine Expression, that is, Jesus
Christ] of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The
grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: But the word of the Lord [Christ] endureth for ever... (1 Peter 1:18-25). As
Peter clearly teaches here, it is not the bible, but Jesus Christ, the true Word of God, who gave His precious blood to redeem us,
who was foreordained before the foundation of the world, who was manifested in these last times for us, who, by Him do we believe
in God who raised Christ up from the dead and gave Him glory, by whom believers in Christ were born again, and whom liveth and abideth
and endureth forever. Without a doubt, these verses describe the Word of God as Jesus Christ, and not the bible, as many mistakenly
refer to. All believers are born again, not of the word [called the bible in error], but by the true Word, Jesus Christ.
THE
WORD OF THE KINGDOM
Jesus taught His disciples about another source of misunderstanding when He said, Hear ye therefore the parable
of the sower. When any one heareth the word [Greek, Logos, the Divine Expression, Jesus Christ, or message] of the kingdom [that is,
the expression of the good news or gospel message about the Kindgom of God and Heaven and eternal life] and understandeth it not,
then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. But
he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word [of truth, the gospel message], and anon with joy
receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the
word, by and by he is offended. He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world,
and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. But he that received seed into the good ground is he
that heareth the word [of truth, the gospel], and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold,
some sixty, some thirty (Matthew 13:18-23). In Luke, we are taught that the seed is the word of God: Now the parable is this: The
seed is the word [of truth, the gospel message[, of God (Luke 8:11); and the word, of course, is referring to the word of truth about
the Kingdom, that is, the gospel message, and not the bible.
PREACH THE WORD
Another doctrinal error that is often preached
can be found in Paul's second letter to Timothy. Paul instructed Timothy, I charge thee, therefore before God, and the Lord
Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His Kingdom; Preach the word [Greek, Logos, the Divine Expression,
and again, Christ and the gospel message]; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and
doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves
teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth [a reference to the word of truth, the gospel],
and shall be turned unto fables (2 Timothy 4:1-4). At the time Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, there were no compiled new
testament scriptures. The only scriptures were old testament scriptures. The word Paul is instructing Timothy to preach
was the word of truth, the gospel message. Paul is instructing Timothy to preach the truth of the gospel because, as Paul further
warns the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers,
having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth [of the gospel message], and shall be turned unto fables [Greek,
muthos, a tale, fiction, or a myth] (2 Timothy 4:3-4). Paul understood the importance of Timothy's preaching the life giving
and saving message of the gospel, and not the death dealing fables, fiction, and myths of the imaginations of false teachers.
THY
WORD IS TRUTH
Another source of error is found in the gospel of John. Referring to those who God the Father has given to Jesus
Christ to receive faith and eternal life (John 17:2-3), Christ prays to His heavenly Father, Sanctify them through thy truth: thy
word [Greek logos, account, saying, tidings, utterance, i.e., the Divine Expression,; a reference to Jesus Christ and the gospel] is
truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that
they also might be sanctified through the truth (John 17:17-19). In verse 17, what is this “word” that Christ is referring to. The
answer is found in Paul's letter to the Ephesian church: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word [logos, Christ and the gospel message] of truth, the gospel [good news] of your
salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise (Ephesians 1:12-13). In our subject
verses, “word” does not refer to the bible, but to Christ and His gospel [announcement of the good news] of Christ's Kingdom and salvation.
It is not the bible which sanctifies, but Christ and His gospel. Christ sanctified Himself so that those who hear and believe the
truth of the gospel, or good news of the Kingdom and eternal life, may also be sanctified and thereby receive eternal life.
THE
SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, WHICH IS THE WORD OF GOD
The bible, or word of God, as it is often referred to, is another source of major
error within the Christian church. To the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus, the apostle Paul wrote,Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to
stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against
the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of
God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins [lower abdominal
and hip area] girt [encircling the hip and lower abdomen] about with truth, and having on the breastplate [the chest area] of righteousness;
And your feet [the feet] shod [to put on sandals] with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield [protects
the entire front of the body] of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet [protects
the head] of salvation, and the sword [primary instrument of warfare and death held in the hand] of the Spirit [the spirit or soul
of man, and not the Holy Spirit], which is the word [rhema: i.e, the movement and operation of the Holy Spirit upon the spirit of
man] of God (Ephesians 6:10-17).
Within these verses, Paul refers to the seven major areas or parts of the human being that are
pertinent to conducting warfare: the hip area, the chest area, the feet, the entire trunk area of the body [especially the front],
the head area, the hand area, and the spirit [spiritual] part of the individual.
Paul also implies the function of each area:
the lower gut and hip area concern digestion, waste elimination, mobility, and reproduction, the chest area concerns the heart [blood]
and lungs [air] essential for life, the feet which concern how we stand and our walk in life, the frontal trunk and chest area concerns
all major organs for functioning, health, and life, the head concerns the brain which is associated with thinking and emotions, the
hand concerns what we touch and hold, and the spirit or soul concerns the determination of our temporal and eternal spiritual relationships
with God and man.
Lastly, Paul mentions the specific instrument of warfare concerning each area of our life: truth protects our
strength and vital life functions, righteousness protects our major life support systems essential for life, the gospel of peace protects
and determines our walk in life, faith protects and preserves our whole being, salvation protects and determines our thinking and
emotions, and the moving and operation of the Holy Spirit, conducts spiritual warfare within and for our own spirits.
Many misinterpret
verse 17 for two reasons. One, because the word Spirit is capitalized, and thereby refers to the Holy Spirit. We know, though, that
this word Spirit could not be referring to the Holy Spirit since Paul is talking about the parts of the human body of the believer.
To interpret the word "Spirit" as the Holy Spirit, as the text suggests, rather than "spirit" which would be more consistent with
the description of the parts of the human body, would change the flow of Paul's point. If we change Spirit to spirit, meaning the
spirit of man, the interpretation remains consistent and makes sense. It is the Holy Spirit that conducts warfare for and with our
human spirit [with a small s].
Two, the word word often incorrectly refers to the bible; but in this verse, word is translated
from the Greek word rhema, which, in new testament biblical context, as we have seen, refers to the movement and operation of the
Holy Spirit, and not the bible, or "word." It is not the "word", or bible, that interacts with the "spirit" of man, but the powerful
speaking, movement and actions of the Holy Spirit of God.
The word sword is translated from the Greek word machaira, which refers
to the major implement of fighting, battle, or warfare. Verse 17 can be interpreted to mean that the sword, the major implement for
the conducting of spiritual warfare within our own human spirit, is the powerful and life-changing operation of the Holy Spirit, not
the bible. The implement of spiritual warfare, the sword of man's spirit, is in fact the supernatural operation and movement of the
Holy Spirit, who gives believers in Christ victory in the spiritual realm. This sword does not refer to the bible.
For the reasons
we mentioned, and probably many others, much error is being taught in the modern Christian church. Hopefully, this article has offered
some different interpretations and explanations of various scriptures, and has corrected at least some of the errors being taught
in the church today.
RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH
Paul wrote to Timothy Study to shew thyself approved [tested and
found to be acceptable] unto God, a workman [Greek ergates, meaning a toiler, labourer, worker] that needeth not to be ashamed [disgraced
and embarrased at suffering], rightly dividing [Greek orthotomeo, meaning to expound and understand correctly] the word [Greek logos,
meaning Christ and the gospel] of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).
Bible teachers and scholars often misunderstand and, therefore misinterpret,
this verse. For example, many often misinterpret the word study, the words rightly divide, and the words the word of truth. More often
than not, most interpretations are based on human definitions, and not on the new testamennt Greek or contextual definitions.
First,
the word study is translated from the Greek word spoudazo, which means to use speed, to make an effort, or to be diligent. In the
context of verse 15, the word study does not refer to the Webster's New Collegiate dictionary definition of the application of the
mental faculties to the acquisition of knowledge, as many think, but to making a diligent effort. A similar usage of the word study is
found in Paul's letter to the church in Thessalonica: And that ye study [Greek philotimeomai, being eager or earnest to do something,
labour, strive] to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you (1 Thes 4:11). These
two verses do not refer to academic study, but to making an effort, to diligently labour. As a matter of fact, strangely, the scriptures
even warn against excessive academic study, teaching, And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is
no end; and much study [Hebrew lahag, intense mental application], is a weariness of the flesh (Ecclesiastes 12:12). Within the context
of our subject verses, the word study clearly means to make an effort or to strive for.
Second, the words rightly divide are
translated from the Greek word orthotomeo, which means to make a straight cut, to dissect or expound correctly the divine message,
to be more keen, or to be sharper. In the context of our subject verse, to rightly divide means to expound correctly and completely
understand the issue at hand.
Third, the words the word of truth is translated from the Greek word logos, which means something
said, a message, a topic, an account, a tiding, utterance, or word, while the word truth is translated from the Greek word aletheia,
which means truth, truly, verity, or true as in not concealing. What does the word of truth refer to? Paul defined the word of truth
for us in his letter to the saints in Ephesus: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all
spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we
should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself,
according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Wherein he hath abounded
toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath
purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which
are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to
the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first
trusted in Christ [and salvation through faith in Him]. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel
of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise (Ephesians 1:3-13). James
also wrote, Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh
not the righteousness of God. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted
word [of truth, the gospel], which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own
selves (James 1:19-22). As James explains here, it is not the bible that is able to save your souls, but the gospel message of Christ
and salvation through faith in Him. Referring to the preaching of the gospel, and not the bible, Paul wrote the Corinthian church,But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers [of the gospel message] of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities,
in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering,
by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth [the gospel], by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on
the right hand and on the left (2 Corinthians 6:4-7).
In order to best understand what Paul was attempting to convey to Timothy,
it is essential to examine the context of Paul's letter. In the verses immediately before our subject verse, Paul explained to Timothy
that there is a price, in fact, many extreme prices, to pay for preaching the gospel message of Christ and salvation through faith
in Him, as Paul had often personally experienced himself. Paul told Timothy that preaching the gospel requires enduring hardship (2
Tim 2:2), is in essence a war (2 Tim 2:4), involves striving (2 Tim 2:5), involves labor (2 Tim 2:6), involves suffering trouble (2
Tim 2:9), involves enduring all things (2 Tim 2:10), involves suffering (2 Tim 2:12), results in periodic unbelief (2 Tim 2:13), and,
lastly, not striving or arguing about words (2 Tim 2:14). Most of the time, preaching the gospel will cost us much pain and suffering,
as the scriptures clearly teach, and as Paul clearly testifies to.
Paul desired to encourage Timothy in his ministry of preaching
the gospel, and the hardships and suffering Paul knew Timothy had, and would have in the future, encounter. In his letter to his beloved
spiritual son in the faith of Christ, Timothy, Paul wrote, Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others
also. Thou therefore endure hardness [Greek, kakopatheo, to undergo hardship, be afflicted, endure affliction, or suffer trouble],
as a good soldier of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 2:1-3). It becomes clear here that Paul is referring to the affliction and suffering
resulting from preaching the word of truth, the gospel message of God.
Referring to himself, and reminding Timothy of what he
has experienced, Paul later adds, Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel:
Wherein I suffer trouble, as if [one were considered to be] an evil doer, even unto bonds [as a prisoner]; but the [gospel] word [message] of
God is not bound [prevented from achieving God's purpose]. Therefore I endure all things [pain, suffering, hardships, deprivations] for
the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory (2 Timothy 2:8-10).
Study
to show yourself approved of God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth might be better translated
as make a steady, earnest, energetic application and effort to explain in careful detail and correctly understand the gospel and all
of its requirements [which Paul is teaching can and does certainly include affliction and suffering], an effort for which the laborer
for Christ will not be ashamed, nor be considered unacceptable to God the Father. In this particular context, Paul is exhorting Timothy
to make the necessary effort to understand and accept that preaching the gospel will result in various and extreme forms of suffering,
as it had with Paul, and that this suffering for Christ and the gospel message should not be considered shameful by any worker, nor
is suffering for the sake of the gospel, unacceptable to God. In fact, Paul teaches that those who suffer and endure hardship for
the sake of Christ and the preaching the gospel are described as good soldiers for Jesus Christ.
For the reasons we mentioned,
and probably many others, much error is being taught in the modern Christian church. Hopefully, this article has offered some different
interpretations and explanations of various scriptures, and has corrected at least some of the errors being taught in the church today. AMEN.
Note: The word [Logos], the word {Rhema], and the scriptures [Graphe] must be differentiated. For more on this, see The
Christian Herald Article Logos, Rhema, And Graphe.
THE CHRISTIAN HERALD
A
Judeo-Christian Bible Study
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he
shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart
from evil"
(Proverbs 3:5-7).
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them
by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt
tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every
tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall
know them”
(Matthew
7:15-20).
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should
boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we
should walk in them"
(Ephesians
2:8-10).
"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal
with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being
found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath
highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name”
(Philippians 2:5-9).
"Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.
But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth
the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed
and in truth"
(1 John 3:16-18).
