INTRODUCTION

The Word of God is remarkable from several different perspectives. Its extraordinary adaptation to us is a source of constant reflection by thinking men. The fact that it has consistently survived multiple and concentrated attacks from its enemies, separates it from all other writings. The precision and accuracy with which it addresses all of its themes is unquestioned by all who peruse its pages in faith. But these are only cursory observations, and do not accentuate its real distinctiveness.

The Unity of Scripture

The unity of Scripture is seen in the term "Book" (Psalm 40:7), while the Source of its message is underscored in the phrase "Book of the Lord" (Isa 34:16). The perfectness of its contents is seen in the expression "Good Word of God" (Heb 6:5). The authority and applicability of Scripture to its recipients are seen in the phrase "Book of the Law" (Neh 8:3; Gal 3:10), while the character of the Bible is emphasized in the words "Holy Scriptures" (1 Tim 3:15). The Sovereignty of God is witnessed in the words "Law of the Lord" (Rom 1:2), and the reflection of His mind is declared in the expression "Oracles of God" (Rom 3:2).

The Bible is the mind of the Lord in writing, addressed to those with abilities to discern. Thus the word "Scriptures" (1 Cor 15:3) is used. The source of its power is seen in the words "Sword of the Spirit" (Eph 6:17), while expression is emphasized in the terms Word" (James 1:21) and "the Word of God" (Heb 4:12). The embodiment of Scripture is found in the Person of Christ, and thus "The Word of Christ" (Col 3:16) is used. Because spiritual life and response to God comes through this means, it is "The Word of Life" (Phil 2:16). Ultimate reality is declared in God's Word, so it is appropriately called "The Word of Truth" (2 Tim 2:15). There is no other volume so characterized! Here is the ultimate of communication and expression, the most thorough of representation, and the most practical of all writings. There is no member of the human race that can do without it or fail to profit by believing its message.