The Bible Is Our Authority: A Simple Guide to Reading Scripture with Confidence
- Boundless Team
- 6 days ago
- 5 min read
Here's a question worth asking:
How do I know the Bible is actually trustworthy?
If you've ever felt that way, you're not alone.
We live in a world overflowing with information, some true, some half-true, some completely made up. So when someone says, "The Bible is God's Word," it's fair to wonder: How can I be sure?
At Boundless Online Church, we anchor everything in what the Assemblies of God has called the first of the 16 Fundamental Truths:
The Scriptures are inspired by God, verbally, fully, and without error.
This isn't just theology for Sundays. It's the foundation for how we live Monday through Saturday.
Let's break it down in a way that makes sense and gives you a simple, practical path to read Scripture with confidence.
What Does "Inspired" Actually Mean?
The Assemblies of God teaches that the Bible is verbally inspired. That means God didn't just give the writers vague ideas and let them figure out the words. He guided the actual words.
2 Timothy 3:16 says it plainly:
"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness."
"God-breathed" = inspired by the Spirit of God Himself.
That's why we can trust it.
Not because it's an old book. Not because smart people said so.
But because God spoke, and faithful people wrote down exactly what He said.
Why the Bible Is Our Authority (Not Tradition, Not Feelings)
Here's where the Assemblies of God stands firm:
Scripture is the final authority on what we believe and how we live.
Not the latest podcast. Not someone's opinion on social media. Not even church tradition (as helpful as it can be).
The Bible is the measuring stick. Everything else gets measured against it.
In our church, this is why we encourage people to open their Bibles during sermons, small groups, and personal study. We want you to see it for yourself, not just take someone's word for it.
Here's the rule: If it's not in the Bible, we don't bind it on anyone. If it is in the Bible, we hold to it.
Simple. Clear. Safe.
How to Read the Bible Without Getting Lost
Okay, so the Bible is inspired and authoritative. Great.
But how do you actually read it without feeling confused or overwhelmed?
Here are five practical steps we teach at Boundless Online Church:
1. Start Small
You don't have to read the whole Bible in a week.
Try this:
Pick one Gospel (we recommend John or Luke if you're new).
Read one chapter a day.
Ask yourself: What did I learn about Jesus today?
That's it. No pressure.
2. Pray Before You Read
This might sound obvious, but it changes everything.
Before you open your Bible, say a simple prayer:
"God, help me understand what You're saying to me today."
The same Spirit who inspired the Bible will help you understand it. That's a promise (John 16:13).
3. Look for the Main Point (Not Just Random Verses)
The Assemblies of God teaches us to consider the totality of Scripture, not just isolated verses pulled out of context.
Ask yourself:
What is the passage actually about?
Who was it written to?
What does it teach me about God, about people, or about how to live?
Context matters. A lot.
4. Use Trustworthy Study Tools
You don't need a seminary degree to understand the Bible. But a few good tools help:
A study Bible (with notes that explain historical context)
A Bible app (like YouVersion or Bible Gateway, both free)
A small group or pastor who can walk through tough questions with you
At Boundless Online Church, we're always happy to help. Reach out if you're stuck at lmcdonald@famemphis.net.
5. Apply What You Learn
Reading the Bible isn't just about gaining knowledge. It's about transformation.
James 1:22 says:
"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."
After you read, ask:
What does this passage call me to do?
Is there a sin to confess? A promise to claim? A command to obey?
Then take one small step.
What About Hard Questions?
Let's be honest: some parts of the Bible are hard to understand.
The Assemblies of God doesn't shy away from that. We distinguish between clear commands (like love your neighbor, follow Jesus, be baptized) and debatable matters (like specific interpretations of prophecy or creation timelines).
On the essentials, we stand firm. On the non-essentials, we give grace. In all things, we pursue unity and love.
If you're wrestling with a passage, don't walk away. Wrestle with it. Bring your questions to God, to Scripture, and to trusted believers.
You're not alone in this.
A Word to New Believers (And Longtime Readers)
If you're new to the Bible, start here:
The Bible is a gift from God to you.
It's not a textbook to master. It's a love letter to read, a map to follow, and a source of life to drink from.
And if you've been reading the Bible for years, here's a reminder:
Never stop being amazed that God chose to speak to us.
He could have stayed silent. He didn't.
That alone is worth celebrating.
Next Steps: How to Build a Habit
Here's a simple, doable plan to get started (or restart):
Pick a time. Morning? Lunch break? Before bed? Choose what works for your life.
Pick a place. Find a quiet spot where you can focus.
Pick a plan. Start with the Gospel of John (21 chapters = 3 weeks if you read one chapter a day).
Pick a friend. Invite someone to join you. Text each other what you're learning.
That's it. No fancy systems. Just consistency and openness.
A Short Prayer to Get You Started
Before you go, here's a prayer you can use today:
"Father, thank You for giving us Your Word. Thank You that the Bible is trustworthy, inspired, and alive. Help me to read it with an open heart. Teach me what You want me to know. Change me by what I read. In Jesus' name, amen."
The Bottom Line
The Bible isn't just another book.
It's God's authoritative, inspired Word: the foundation for everything we believe and do at Boundless Online Church.
And the best part?
You don't need a theology degree to understand it. You just need a humble heart, a willing spirit, and a little bit of time.
So open it up. Read it. Trust it. Live it.
God has something to say to you today.
Ready to go deeper?
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Contact
Email:lmcdonald@famemphis.net
Text for prayers: (901) 213-7341
We're here for you( every step of the way.)
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