BIBLE: Inspired(Authored) by God

Now that we’ve established the importance of being strongly rooted followers of Christ, it’s time to dig into the Biblical Essentials - non-negotiable doctrines that are foundational truths for believers. Understanding each of these doctrines helps us put our theme verses, Colossians 2:6-7 into action - 

And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.

So, where do we begin? Our source of Truth as Christ followers: God’s Word — the Bible. 

What separates the Bible from other books written by Christians? Why was given to us and how does God use it in our lives? 

Dig into it with us this week as we answer these questions and lay a strong foundation of our first Biblical Essential.

Essential #1 - The Bible is Inspired (authored by God), Inerrant (free from errors), Infallible (will not fail/is trustworthy), and Authoritative (our ultimate guide). 


SCRIPTURES
2 Timothy 3:14-17 | But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.


DISCUSSION

1. Do you believe that the Bible is “Inspired” or authored by God? Why or why not? 
2. What are some of the ways God uses the Bible in our lives according to 2nd Timothy 3?
3. When you read the Bible, do you just read it to “check the box” of getting it down or do you let it correct and teach you like 2nd Timothy 3 says? 
4. What do your Bible reading practices look like? How, if at all, could they be more effective?
5. How has the Bible prepared and equipped you to do God’s good works? What elements of it do you live out on a regular basis? If you can’t think of many, why do you think that is?