“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16, NIV).

“Scripture is the primary way we are ‘transformed by the renewing of [our] minds’.” —John Mark Comer, *Practicing the Way

Why is it Hard?

The Bible, as we know it today, is a collection of 66 books written over a span of 1,500 years by more than 40 different authors. Additionally, it was composed in an ancient context for people living in cultures that are vastly different from our own. It is no wonder that understanding it can be complex and, at times, challenging. As Comer noted, there is something unique about Scripture; it has the potential to bring about transformation.

How Do We Navigate It?

When approaching Scripture, we must do so with intention. Since it is a product of its time and place, we should take care to learn about those historical contexts so that we can discern how it applies to our lives in the 21st century, rather than simply applying it as it was understood in the past. We must remember that Paul asserts all Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, is God-breathed. This means it is inspired by God, given to humanity to write down and preserve. We can trust that it is accurate and that God is honest. Moreover, Scripture is for us; it tells the story of God’s reconciliation with humanity, culminating in the life, ministry, and resurrection of Christ.

Why Does It Matter?

In the coming weeks, starting in May, we will focus on the Practice of Scripture. Our goal is to learn, as a community, about the power and presence that Scripture can have in our lives. Comer identifies three main ways we can experience this transformation. First, “we begin to see the world as he [Christ] sees it.” Second, as our minds are reshaped by Scripture, we start to “think how he thinks.” Finally, we begin to “feel what he feels.” This transformation, which begins with a renewed mind, ultimately encompasses the whole person—mind (think), body (do), and soul (feel). (feel)

Comer, John Mark. Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus, Become like Him, Do as He Did. Colorado Springs: WaterBrook, 2024.