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Gordon H. Clark

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Gordon H. Clark 2 min read
#Biblical Authority #Justification #Faith Alone
2 Articles
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Gordon H. Clark
Gordon H. Clark 2 min read
2 articles
What does the Bible say about justification by faith?

The Bible teaches that justification by faith is central to salvation, as found in Romans 5:1.

Justification by faith is a foundational doctrine emphasized throughout Scripture. Romans 5:1 states, 'Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.' This illustrates that it is through faith alone, not by works, that we are declared righteous before God. Moreover, Ephesians 2:8-9 affirms that by grace we have been saved through faith, and this is not of ourselves; it is the gift of God. The doctrine underscores the necessity of understanding how our relationship with God is established solely through faith in Christ's finished work, rather than through our own merits.

Romans 5:1, Ephesians 2:8-9

How do we know the Bible is the inerrant word of God?

The Bible claims to be the inerrant word of God and is affirmed through its consistency and fulfilled prophecies.

The Bible's assertion of its inerrancy is found in Scriptures such as John 17:17, which states, 'Your word is truth.' This claim is supported by the unity and coherence of its message across various authors and periods. Additionally, the fulfillment of prophecies throughout biblical history substantiates its divine inspiration. Jesus himself referred to the Scriptures as authoritative, indicating that God’s truth is present throughout His word. As believers, we are called to search the Scriptures daily, as seen in Acts 17:11, to deepen our understanding of its truthfulness.

John 17:17, Acts 17:11

Why is studying the Bible important for Christians?

Studying the Bible is crucial for Christians as it provides understanding of God’s truth and guidance for life.

The importance of studying the Bible is highlighted in several passages that emphasize its role in the believer's life. Deuteronomy 6:5-7 instructs us to love the Lord our God and to teach His commandments diligently to our children. This formation of knowledge is vital for fostering a strong faith in future generations. Additionally, Psalm 119:148 reflects the psalmist's commitment to meditating on God’s word, highlighting that understanding divine truth equips believers to align their lives with God’s will. In Colossians 3:16, we are encouraged to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly, which fosters wisdom and discernment necessary for Christian living.

Deuteronomy 6:5-7, Psalm 119:148, Colossians 3:16

    Many ordinary Christians are woefully ignorant. In a class of enthusiastic Christian students at a summer conference, all of college level, all ‘on fire for Jesus’, singing wild ‘gospel songs’ with abandon, thirty four out of thirty five had not the dimmest notion of justification by faith. The present treatise will at least quote some very elementary Biblical passages, if not for the edification of those whirling dervishes, at least for the sober-minded, even if poorly instructed, church members who genuinely want to understand this central doctrine of Christianity. ... Christians and any others who are ignorant but intelligent admit their deficiency and make an honest effort to learn.

    The value of detailed study of the Bible is asserted by the Bible itself. Those who still believe that the Scriptures are the inerrant word of the infallible God, who is truth itself, should carefully study what treatment the Bible demands for itself: 

  1. These words….shall be in your heart; you shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them…. - Deuteronomy 6:5-7
     
  2. He shall read it all the days of his life... - Deuteronomy 17:19
     
  3. His delight is in the law of the Lord and in his law he meditates day and night. - Psalm 1:2
     
  4. My eyes are awake through the night watches, that I may meditate on your word. - Psalm 119:148
     
  5. Search the Scriptures - John 5:39
     
  6. Sanctify them by your truth. Your word is truth. - John 17:17
     
  7. These…….searched the Scriptures daily. - Acts 17:11
     
  8. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom - Colossians 3:16​​​​​

    We are to realize that God speaks the truth; and that he spoke the truth so that we might gain an understanding of his mind, so that also we ourselves might have the mind of Christ. Nowhere are we told to have the emotions of Christ. But scripture repeats and repeats the exhortation to understand divine truth.

 - Copied From Gordon Clark's Book, The Atonement

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