The Clarity of Scripture

(Article for publication week of 11-11-2009 AD)

"Have ye not read…” (Matthew 19:4). In the passage cited the Lord was answering a question from the Pharisees regarding divorce that they supposed would discredit Him regardless of how he answered. Our Lord answered them by reminding them of the clear words of Genesis 2:24.

Contrary to what many people think, the scriptures are actually very clear and simple to understand, as our Lord shows by simply asking the Pharisees, "have ye not read?" The way He asks the question shows that Genesis 2:24 was clear enough that anyone could understand it.

Admittedly, there are many things in the scriptures that are difficult for our small minds. Biblical concepts like the Tri-unity of God are above our thinking. And, there are some scriptures that are obscure. And there are some scriptures like the Book of Revelation that are very mysterious. But, generally speaking, the Bible is clear in its meaning.

For example, the truth of creation is very clear. "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." The only way you could misunderstand that is for some atheist to help you! The Biblical account of creation is so clear, that anyone can understand it. Friend, if you deny the Biblical account of creation, you sin against the clear light of scripture and show that you are unregenerate.

And, concerning what God requires of us, the scripture is clear. The moral law of God, the Ten Commandments are so clear that anyone can understand it. That is the reason unbelievers hate the law of God. It clearly condemns them in their sin and rebellion. Be honest now. What part of "thou shalt have no other gods before me" don't you understand?

But, most importantly, the gospel is very clear. The way of salvation is so clear that a little child can understand it. "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved" is very clear. "For God so loved the world, that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life" is so clear that multitudes of unlettered people have believed it for their salvation. The simple gospel message that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone in Christ Alone is so simple that you could believe it right now to the salvation of your poor soul, if the Holy Spirit would give you an understanding heart.

And I might add to this, that our Authorized translation is clear also. The majority of it is written in short words of four to eight letters. Yes, there are some words like "propitiation" that we don't use as much. But it is so exciting to find out what such words mean!

But with all its clarity, the Bible will remain a closed Book for you unless the Lord has mercy on your poor soul and regenerates you. This is the reason people reject such a clear Book- they have hearts that are hard as the millstone. They are dead in sin. They cannot see the kingdom of God for they are not born again. May the Lord have mercy on you and give you spiritual perception.