Fundamentals 101

When school begins in the fall, boys and girls are faced with the challenge of going back to the basics.  In the classroom, on the sports field, or in the music room, teachers and coaches emphasize the importance of fundamentals and they repeat those basics over and over again.  Fundamentals are also important in the Christian life.  The Apostle Peter says,“And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.  Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation.  For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (II Peter 1:19-21).

These verses tell us that God’s Word is basic for Christians.  We need the fundamentals of Scripture for Christian faith and for daily living.  Notice some specifics from these verses:

1)      We can have confidence in God’s Word.  It can be counted on in all kinds of

situations because it is “more certain.”

2)      We need to listen carefully to God’s Word.  In fact, Scripture is so important that we would “do well to pay attention to it.”

3)      God’s Word is a light for guiding us when things seem unclear.  It provides direction like “a light shinning in a dark place.”

4)      God’s Word originates with and has its source in God, Himself.  What is written in the Bible is not just “the prophet’s own interpretation” but it is “from God.”

Therefore, God Word is completely dependable.  This fall is a great time for all of us to open our Bibles and get “back to the basics.”

Back to the Basics

If we want to do our best in any endeavor in life it is important to get “back to the basics.”  Basics are always crucial because they provide a foundation making it possible for us to encounter greater possibilities.  Many children and youth experienced getting back to the basics in the school classroom or on the sports field this fall.  I’d like to encourage all of us to get back to the basics, but do so in the area of spirituality.  Here are several action points you might take to help you build the spiritual foundation of your life:

First, spend time in God’s Word so you can begin to grow or continue to mature in Christ. The Bible tells us that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (II Timothy 3:16-17).  Second, talk to God daily.  Prayer is communion with God and it is something that He desires from us.  Scripture encourages us to “Pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (I Thessalonians 5:17-17).  Third, learn to praise and worship God.  God has done so much for us and He is supremely worthy of our praise.  The Psalmist challenges us to “Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs…Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name” (Psalm 100:2, 4).  Fourth, be obedient to what God’s Word teaches you.  Obedience to God’s Word is the best way to reveal to others that you believe what God says.  Obedience simply takes God’s Word and puts it into practice in life.  Jesus said, “If you love me, you will obey what I command” (John 14:15).

Don’t forget that getting back to the basics is fundamental to help us construct a strong foundation for life.  The Bible reminds us to “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  To him be glory both now and forever!  Amen” (II Peter 3:18).  Maybe this fall would be a good time for all of us to get “back to the basics” spiritually.  Are you ready to join me?