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Can We Understand The Bible Alike?
John R. Gentry
God in his Holy Scriptures says, “YES!” Let’s look at scriptures that clearly state this.
First, in John 17.20-21, Jesus says, “I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in me through their (the apostles, vss. 13-19, JRG) word; that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you sent me.” Jesus’ desire is for all who believe in him to be one, or united, in the same way that he and the Father are one. In what way are they one? They are one in purpose and in understanding. Therefore, Jesus’ desire is for those who believe in him to be united in purpose and understanding of his teachings, the Bible.
Next, let’s examine some passages from the pen of Paul. In 1 Corinthians 1.10, Paul states, “Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.” God, through Paul, is saying that his word is meant to be understood in the same way by all. He says that there is to be no divisions among his people. Denominationalism is contrary to God’s teaching. Rather, his people are to have the same mind and judgment.
In Ephesians 4.3-6 Paul says, “[Be] diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.” Notice the Lord says there is one faith, not many faiths. Again, denominationalism is contrary to God’s will. He says that his people are to preserve unity. Remember, as stated earlier, Jesus’ desire is for those who believe in him to be united in purpose and understanding.
In Ephesians 5.17, Paul says, “So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Not only does God desire for us to be united in understanding of the one faith (cf. Ephesians 4.3-6; Jude 3), he also commands us to understand his will!
Finally, think about this logically. God’s has revealed to us his will in the Bible. God, being all powerful and all knowing, would not have revealed this to us and then commanded we understand it in the same way if he was not going to reveal it in a way that can be understood alike by all! To claim we cannot understand the Bible alike is to blaspheme God! To make such a claim is to say that God was not capable of delivering a message that could be understood alike by all! Are you willing to make this claim?
Much more could be said concerning this question. If you have any questions, please contact me and I will be happy to study with you from God’s Word about your questions.
originally published in the Banner-Gazette
2007.05.02