"How well do we understand the principle of Scripture alone? Do we search, love, live, and pray over the Holy Scriptures? Is the Bible the compass that leads us through the storms and over the waves that we encounter in life? Is Scripture the mirror by which we dress ourselves (James 1:22-27), the rule by which we work (Gal. 6:16), the water with which we wash (Ps. 119:9), the fire that warms us (Luke 24:32), the food that nourishes us (Job 23:12), the sword with which we fight (Eph. 6:17), the counselor who resolves our doubts and fears (Ps. 119:24), and the heritage that enriches us (Ps. 119:111-112)? Are we learning from Scripture, as John Flavel said, "The best way of living, the noblest way of suffering, and the most profitable way of dying"? Has Scripture alone become our pesonal watchword, causing us, like Luther and Calvin, to become captive in our consciences to the very words of God?" - Joel Beeke
Scripture should be the starting point and basis for our beliefs. Studying others' writings and views often provides clarification or can provide some questions that may have us dig deeper.
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
2 Timothy 2:15
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Scripture alone should be our guide. We are told to examine ourselves in light of scripture and continuously repent. It is only through that that we get more intimate with God which is the most important thing.
The Bible emphasizes the need for preachers and teachers as well as the need to seek Godly counsel. �
We don't learn to read, write, do math, etc without the aid of parents and teachers. �We can't expect to learn all that is in the Boble just by reading the Bible without the aid of preachers and teachers.
Ecclesiastes 12:9�And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out, and set in order many proverbs.
Ecclesiastes 12:10 The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth.
Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
2 Timothy 1:11 Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.
2 Peter 2:5 And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;
1 Timothy 2:7�Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.
We should ensure those we listen to are preaching the Word...read the verses along with the preacher, study on your own to ensure what you hear aligns with God's Word.
