A Biblical Vision, Part II: Mastering the New Testament Witness to Christ

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A B i b l i ca l Vi s i on, Par t I I : Mas ter i ng the New Tes tament Wi tnes s to Chr i s t

b. The leading of the Holy Spirit to help others apply the word of God in their own situation and life context, 1 Thess. 5.12-14 – We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, [13] and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. [14] And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.

(1) The context determines the application

(2) The content of the message regarding the centrality of Christ is not changed. Rather, Spirit-formed and filled individuals enable believers to apply the Christ teaching to their particular situation.

3. Entrusting the interpretation and application of Christ and the apostolic tradition to true trustworthy pastors who can teach others

a. 2 Tim. 2.2 – and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

b. Jer. 23.28 – Let the prophet who has a dream tell the dream, but let him who has my word speak my word faithfully. What has straw in common with wheat? declares the Lord.

c. 1 Cor. 4.2 – Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.