Two young evangelists attended a conference in Florida where respected teachers expressed doubt in the veracity of the Bible. This created doubt in the minds of the men. One left evangelism, returned to his home country and began a career in journalism.
The other also returned home. He re-read
Paul’s message to his apprentice, Timothy, where he states that all scripture
is inspired by God. He recalled that Jesus quoted scripture many times, including
from the creation story, which was the portion of scripture most under scrutiny
(Matt. 19:4-6).
“I walked out in the moonlight, my heart
heavy and burdened. I dropped to my knees and opened my Bible on a tree stump.
‘Oh God, I prayed, there are many things in this book I do not understand. But
God, I’m going to accept this book as your word by faith. I’m going to allow my
faith to go beyond my intellect and believe that this is your inspired Word.’
From that moment on I have never doubted God’s Word.”*
The man who left evangelism was Charles
Templeton. He became editor of The Toronto Star and a frequent guest on
Canadian television. He espoused the arguments of skeptics and wrote a book sadly
titled, Farewell to God. The second
man was Billy Graham. After his faith crisis he became more confident in
preaching the Bible. Thousands follow Jesus today because of his commitment to
scripture. He too wrote books, each one based on scripture.
Paul reminded the Corinthian believers
that the Church of Christ is like a house (I Cor. 3:11). A defective foundation
affects the whole structure. When a person, or church, loses their commitment
to biblical authority, its foundation crumbles. Windows that should let in the
fresh breath of God’s Spirit no longer open. Doors that should lead to the
knowledge of the Savior hang purposelessly on rusted hinges.
True believers trust the Bible, teach the Bible and live according to its precepts.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God.” 2 Tim. 3:16
One person put it this way: Where the Bible is not believed the church speaks with a stutter.
The stories of these two men read like a modern-day parable that illustrates the necessity of building our faith on Jesus and His Word (Acts 2:36). One man’s faith crumbled. The other man’s grew stronger. Our lives are parables too. Let your legacy be that you believed the Bible is the Word of God and that it is a gift from Him to all humanity.
Prayer: Thank you for your inspired Word.
