Embracing Biblical Truth (Sermon Blog)
Series Recap:
In Part 2 of our Restoration series, Pastor Steve focused on one of the most essential foundations for a restored life: embracing biblical truth. While many people set goals for physical health, finances, or mental well-being at the start of a new year, Scripture reminds us that true restoration begins with our relationship with God and His Word. God has been restoring lives for thousands of years, and He continues to do so by shaping hearts and minds through Scripture. 0111
Why Restoration Starts with God’s Word
Pastor Steve reminded us that if we want restoration in our lives, there is no better place to start than the Word of God.
God’s Word shapes how we think
God’s Word forms our worldview
God’s Word influences how we handle problems
God’s Word impacts our attitudes and decisions
When Scripture is central, it naturally shows up in how we live. When it’s absent, our worldview is often shaped by culture, trends, or personal preferences instead.
Truth in a Culture That Questions Truth
For decades, our culture has questioned the idea of absolute truth.
“You have your truth, and I have mine.”
“Truth is relative.”
“Believe whatever works for you.”
But Pastor Steve pointed out that this logic quickly falls apart. Absolute truth still matters—especially when it becomes inconvenient.
As followers of Jesus, we believe that truth is not something we create; it’s something we receive.
Jesus said it clearly:
“I am the way and the truth and the life.”
If we take Jesus seriously, we must take His words seriously.
When Faith Is Informed by Culture Instead of Scripture
One of Pastor Steve’s biggest concerns was how easily believers can begin leading with politics or cultural opinions instead of Scripture.
Culture is loud
Opinions are everywhere
Division is increasing
But Scripture must remain the foundation.
The Bible should inform our worldview—not the other way around.
One day, there will be no political parties, no platforms, and no power struggles—only Christ as King.
A High View of the Bible
One reason we can trust Scripture is because Jesus trusted Scripture.
Jesus quoted Scripture often
Jesus relied on Scripture during temptation
Jesus responded to lies with, “It is written”
The Bible is not just inspirational—it is God-breathed.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” — 2 Timothy 3:16
God’s Word doesn’t just inform us; it breathes life into us.
Scripture Forms Our Convictions
Paul encouraged Timothy to continue in what he had learned and become convinced of.
Pastor Steve explained:
Repetition in Scripture helps us remember
Consistent reading strengthens conviction
Convictions must be reinforced to withstand cultural pressure
Biblical convictions don’t form overnight—they grow through steady, faithful engagement with God’s Word.
Discipleship: Learning Truth Together
Truth is often passed down through discipleship, not isolation.
Timothy learned Scripture through:
His grandmother Lois
His mother Eunice
Pastor Steve challenged us to consider:
Who is spiritually ahead of me?
Who is walking alongside me?
Who am I helping grow?
Healthy discipleship includes all three.
Scripture Grows Over Time
Pastor Steve used a memorable illustration comparing Scripture to coffee.
At first:
It may feel unfamiliar
It may be hard to understand
But over time:
Taste develops
Appreciation grows
Depth becomes clear
The same is true with the Bible. When we stay with it, God’s Word comes alive and begins to shape us from the inside out.
Practical Ways to Get God’s Word into Your Life
Pastor Steve offered several practical ways to build a habit of Scripture:
Read or listen — choose the format that works best for you
Use Bible apps like YouVersion
Study in community with others
Memorize Scripture
Share verses with people who need encouragement
Post Scripture as reminders
Listen to Scripture through music or Psalms
Use daily devotionals
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s consistency.
Renewing the Mind
Paul writes:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2
With constant input from:
Social media
News outlets
Entertainment
Podcasts
Technology and AI
Our minds need daily renewal.
Scripture anchors us when competing worldviews try to shape us.
What Scripture Does in Us
Paul outlines four ways Scripture works in our lives:
Teaching – helps us learn truth
Rebuking – warns us when we go off course
Correcting – realigns our beliefs and actions
Training in righteousness – forms Christlike habits
Christian growth isn’t accidental—it’s trained over time.
Speak Up, Grow Up, Build Up
Pastor Steve closed by highlighting three calls from Ephesians 4:
Speak Up
Speak the truth
Always speak in love
Grow Up
Move toward spiritual maturity
Become a healthy, grounded church
Build Up
Support one another
Strengthen the body of Christ
God’s Word is the foundation for all of it.
A Question to Consider
As we begin a new year, Pastor Steve left us with one simple question:
What is your next step toward embracing biblical truth?
Restoration begins when we let God’s Word shape our thinking, guide our decisions, and renew our hearts—day by day.
Pastor Steve will continue the Restoration series next week with Part 3.
Join us as we keep exploring how God brings healing, growth, and renewal into every area of our lives.