the other “3:16”

My pastor, Tim, brought another powerful message yesterday in church. Before I share it I have a funny story. As you folks that join me often here, know, I travel almost 250 days a year. That means, among other things, that I don’t get to my church as often as I would like. Sometimes when I do get to attend, someone will come up to me and say thanks for visiting us, where are you from?! I’ve attended that my church for 30 years, but we have lots of new folks coming in so, it is not too surprising that some don’t know I’m a member.

If you say 3:16 to a Christian the first scripture than comes to mind is John 3:16

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that who so ever believes on Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.”

Tim preached on another 3:16, 2 Timothy 3:16

16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
His sermon was on reading the Word of God, the Bible. Consider these facts:
1. The Bible was written over a 1,500 year span.
1. It was written by more than 40 authors, from every walk of life including; kings, military leaders,peasants, philosophers, fisherman, tax collectors, poets, musicians, statesman,scholars and shepherds.
2. It was written in different places including, dungeons, the wilderness, prisons and islands.
3. It was written under different circumstances such as war, prosperity, famine, and peace.
4. It was written during different moods, joy, despair, sorrow, victory, defeat, confusion, and certainty.
5. It was written on three continents: Asia, Africa, and Europe.
6. It was written in three languages; Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek.
7. Written in a wide variety of literary styles including; poetry, historical narrative, song, romance, personal, correspondence, memoirs, satire, biography, prophecy, law, and parable.
8. The Bible addresses hundreds of controversial subjects including, marriage, divorce, adultery, homosexuality, lying, parenting, obedience and authority.
9. In spite of its diversity, the Bible presents a single unfolding story; God’s redemption of human beings.
10. The Bible is repeatedly, the #1 best seller of all time.
11. Finally, and most importantly, among all the people described in the Bible the leading character throughout is the one, true, living God make known through Jesus Christ.
We need to read and study the Bible, God’s Holy word for several important reasons;
The Bible: Is Powerful.
 12 For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
The Bible: Is Fruitful
 11 It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit.
 It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.
The Bible: Is Undefeatable
 8 The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.”
“The Bible was not given to increase our knowledge, but to change our lives!” D.L. Moody

In reading and studying the word of God;

I must accept the Bible’s authority in my life.
I must assimilate the truth of the Bible into my life.
I must apply the principles of the Bible in my life.

If you do, your life will be forever changed.

blessings,

the pilgrim

* A special thanks to my pastor Tim Thompson for sharing his wonderful sermon notes.

* Health Note: Sorry I’ve been slow in giving a weight report, of the last several weeks I’ve been stuck
at my previous low point 215. I continue to loose inches, but not pounds, I’m going to step up the
effort as I’m not near my over all goal of 185. Needless to say my health is much better and I feel
great, thanks so much for your prayers.