Necessary, Sufficient & Clear

Read the text

Deuteronomy 30:11–14

Read the primary passage aloud twice. On the first reading, listen for the burden of the text. On the second, mark repeated words, contrasts, commands, promises, causes, and conclusions.

• Psalm 119:97–105
• Luke 16:27–31
• 2 Timothy 3:15–17

Language desk

Words that clarify—not words that perform.

Confirm each gloss by its use in this context. A lexicon offers possibilities; the sentence, paragraph, author, and canon determine what a word is doing here.

Form the doctrine

The theological claim

Scripture gives everything necessary to know God’s saving will and live faithfully.

Defense drill

Say it under pressure.

Distinguish sufficiency from the false idea that the Bible contains every useful fact.

• State the opposing claim in a form its adherent could recognize.
• Open the controlling passage and establish the immediate context.
• Make one clear argument before adding supporting texts.
• Ask a diagnostic question, listen to the answer, and return to Christ and the gospel.

Wednesday assignment

Carry the truth into the week.

List three decisions Scripture governs directly and three it governs by wisdom.