Interestingly, one of the classic passages in the New Testament on the Bible's inspiration states that "All Scripture is God-breathed" and that it is "useful for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, and for training in righteousness" -- that is, it shows us God's ways, calls attention to places in our lives where we have failed to heed what the Scriptures have taught us, restores us back to the correct path, and continues to mature us in righteous living. As a result of these activities of the Bible, we may be "thoroughly equipped for every good work." The word translated "equipped" may also be rendered as "fit." The idea is to get into fit shape or condition to live out the word of God. The importance of good works in the life of the believer cannot be overemphasized. These are the marks of the genuine people of God in contrast to the false teachers. To affirm the inspiration of the Scriptures, therefore, has profound implications both for correcting error and for pursuing good works and faithful service to Christ. Growing in knowledge and obedience is not a privilege reserved for the doctrinally elite. Every one of us needs to become "fit" -- doctrinally mature and practically ministering. It is this emphasis of the Bible that has undergirded all my years of teaching. The Bible is relevant, because it is God's word, and determining how God's word relates to us and how we ought to respond to it is the task of every disciple.
So, are you fit?
