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The Reformers and the Authority of God’s Word
Show Summary
Dave Jenkins explores the foundation of the Reformation the authority of God’s Word. From the example of the Bereans in Acts 17:10–12 to the Reformers’ insistence that the church is under Scripture, this episode calls believers to receive the Word eagerly, test all things by it, and live joyfully under its gracious authority.🎧 Listen
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Scripture — Acts 17:10–12
“The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived they went into the Jewish synagogue. Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so. Many of them therefore believed, with not a few Greek women of high standing as well as men.”
Outline
- The Noble Bereans — eager reception, daily examination, Scripture as final authority.
- The Church Under the Word — no preacher, council, or tradition stands above Scripture.
- The Power of God’s Word — as the message is tested by Scripture, many believe.
Application
- Test everything by the Word. Truth stands or falls by Scripture, not opinion.
- Be eager students. Examine the Word daily like the Bereans.
- Stand under the Word. Submit to Scripture rather than twisting it to fit the culture.
Extended Notes
Scripture is how we know who God is, who Christ is, and what He has done. A pastor’s view of Scripture shapes preaching; expository preaching is vital to the health of Christ’s Church. Though many philosophies compete for authority today, Christians are called to stand under the inspired, inerrant, infallible, sufficient, clear, and binding Word of God.From family discipleship to pastoral ministry, Scripture is enough. Trials refine us, and the Spirit uses the Word to produce joy and maturity. We gather under the Word in local churches, led by biblically qualified men who preach, teach, and care for the flock.Though Scripture is under attack from therapeutic models, extra-biblical “words,” and worldly syncretism the Lord is not surprised. He is building His Church. Therefore, contend for the faith (Jude 3) and be ready to give an answer with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).Resources & Links
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Dave Jenkins is happily married to his wife, Sarah. He is a writer, editor, and speaker living in beautiful Southern Oregon. Dave is a lover of Christ, His people, the Church, and sound theology. He serves as the Executive Director of Servants of Grace Ministries, the Executive Editor of Theology for Life Magazine, the Host and Producer of Equipping You in Grace Podcast, and is a contributor to and producer of Contending for the Word. He is the author of The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy and What To Do About It (House to House, 2021), The Word Matters: Defending Biblical Authority Against the Spirit of the Age (G3 Press, 2022), and Contentment: The Journey of a Lifetime (Theology for Life, 2024). You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, or read his newsletter. Dave loves to spend time with his wife, going to movies, eating at a nice restaurant, or going out for a round of golf with a good friend. He is also a voracious reader, in particular of Reformed theology, and the Puritans. You will often find him when he’s not busy with ministry reading a pile of the latest books from a wide variety of Christian publishers. Dave received his M.A.R. and M.Div through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary.
