Don't forsake the Word of God

In the history of redemption, we see one common theme. It began in the garden. The serpent approached Adam and Eve and began to question the Word of God. One by one, the serpent peeled back their fingers from that sacred, benevolent command. He took it from them, telling them that it was not necessary for life, faith and happiness. He convinced them that they could determine what was right and necessary. At this moment an heinous practice was instituted. Men began their attempt to “make a name for themselves” instead of calling upon the name of the Lord.

Where am I getting this? Here are a few references: 1) Adam and Eve in the garden (Gen 3); 2) man making a name for himself (Gen 4:17, 6:4, 11:4, 1Sam 8:11 – “running before his chariots” is idiomatic for this idea); and 3) man doing what is right in his own eyes (Gen 3:6, Jud 17:6, Prov 12:15, etc.). Again, these are just a few references – the theme is prominent throughout Scripture. As you read, look for it.

The progression is clear. Man is given the Word of God and is commissioned to keep it. Man then, b/c of sin and the seed of the serpent, forsakes that Word, opting for his own. Corruption, relativism and syncretism seep into humanity. The Word of God is soon nowhere to be found. The modus operandi of the seed of the serpent is to get man to forsake the Word of God. Man will then forsake his Lord and become his own. Soon, one will not be able to distinguish between the people of God and the people of the serpent.

Until a deliverer is given. Then the seed of the woman (Gen 3:15) brings the Word back to the fore (Deut 7, Joshua 1, Ps 1). We then are called to cling to the Word of God. This is no impersonal action. The Word of God is Christ Himself – a person. He has the ability, not only to reveal God the Father through words, but also His Spirit – His life. We have a living hope (1Pet 1:3)! He is intimately involved and actively communicating. Therefore, we must never be convinced to forsake the Word of God. It is sufficient for us.

We must also be aware of the constant temptation to make a name for ourselves rather than calling upon the name of the Lord. If we leave the Word, then we begin to do what is right in our own eyes. We become the chief authority. Man was never made for such a magisterial position. Authority is a dangerous thing when placed in the hands of sinful men. Only God is strong enough to carry it. Only He is strong enough to apply it benevolently. Why? B/c He is authority. It is His nature to be authoritative. When He exercises His authority He is God. When man makes such an attempt he is criminal, rebel, and sinner.

I thank God that salvation is His work. After the fall, His redemption takes His word out of our hands and places it in our hearts. Here Satan cannot pry it way. Here even we ourselves fail to have it out. This sovereign redemptive work ensures that His people will call upon His Name – they will bring Him glory (Ezek 36; Jer 31, 33). I am thankful that my heart is so resolved – by the grace of God – to have the beat taken from it than the Word of my Lord. I trust that He will preserve me. I trust that He will preserve us. And the gates of Hell will not ultimately prevail.