Identifying Which Parts of the Bible is Relevant to Today’s Believer (2) By Babatunde Olugboji
This week, we will conclude our discussion on which sections of the Bible are relevant to us in the present day. Last week we focused on the Old Testament, this week we will examine the New Testament. 
After 400 years of silence, Jesus, the awaited Messiah came to redeem His followers from their transgressions (John 3:16). He said he had accomplished the Law (Matthew 5:17), and that the words of the law would endure forever (Matthew 5:18)
• Luke 24:27 informs us that all the books of the Old Testament (the ‘Law and Prophets) pointed towards Jesus (Luke 24:27)
• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 states, ‘All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.’
• The Old Testament was composed to ready us for the Gospel of Christ (Romans 15:4).
• Galatians 3:8 indicates that the Gospel first began to take shape in the Old Testament.
• The Bible is alive and powerful; every part is essential for life (Hebrews 4:12)
Implications for Today
Many people are confused about which sections of the Bible are relevant to contemporary life. Some guiding principles can assist us in applying the Bible effectively.
First, all Scripture is divinely inspired and God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21). Nevertheless, certain passages were originally composed for a specific audience or context. Not every verse provides direct applications for all individuals at all times.
A useful approach is to strive for an understanding of whether the passage was meant to address a historical situation or if it conveys a timeless biblical principle. To accurately assess this, one must employ appropriate methods of biblical interpretation. These methods include observing and interpreting the passage within its original context before attempting to apply it to one’s own life.
Second, once the original context is comprehended, the principles within the passage can be more clearly understood. For instance, in Exodus 14, God parted the sea through Moses, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry land. This miracle reveals significant insights regarding God’s power. However, it was never intended to instruct every reader throughout history to attempt to part a sea with a walking stick.
Instead, the passage illustrates;
1) God’s supernatural power,
2) His ability to intervene at the appropriate moment,
3) His faithfulness in keeping promises, and
4) how God operates through individuals who place their trust in Him.
These biblical principles can then be utilized to formulate suitable applications for one’s life in the present day.
Third, comprehending how to implement a specific section of the Bible is more effectively achieved by examining what the entire Bible conveys on a given subject. For example, God frequently addresses the matter of self-control. To enhance one’s self-control, a reader may reference several of these numerous verses and understand the manner in which God wishes His followers to conduct themselves in this regard.
A reader would find that self-control constitutes a part of the fruit of the Spirit applicable to all Christians (Galatians 5:22-23), is a significant characteristic of a wise individual (Proverbs 25:28), that a deficiency in self-control can result in succumbing to sexual temptation (1 Corinthians 7:5), and that self-control is a vital quality for a virtuous woman (1 Timothy 2:15) as well as for church leaders (1 Timothy 3:2).
Ultimately, a reader should consistently pray for wisdom concerning the application of Scripture (John 16:13). Through diligent study, an individual can uncover what Scripture teaches about life matters (2 Timothy 2:15). By engaging in prayer and fellowship with other believers, one can explore methods to implement the Bible’s principles in personal life issues in ways that honor God and assist others.
Have a great week!
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