“Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the LORD your God that I give you.” – Deuteronomy 4:2
The Importance of Preserving God’s Word
We must recognize the value of God’s Word and the importance of preserving it. The Bible is not just any ordinary book; it is the very breath of God. When we read it, we are receiving His teachings and revelations. It is essential for us to handle the scripture with care and respect. Changing or altering God’s Word can lead us astray from the truth that He has proclaimed. The faithful preservation of scripture helps us grow closer to Him and take His guidance seriously. Just as we care for a precious heirloom, we should cherish the Bible, safeguarding its true meaning and intention. So, let’s ensure that we are passing on the true message rather than modifying it to fit our personal preferences.
Revelation 22:18
“I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll.” – Revelation 22:18
Proverbs 30:5-6
“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.” – Proverbs 30:5-6
2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Galatians 1:8-9
“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!” – Galatians 1:8-9
Matthew 5:18
“For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.” – Matthew 5:18
The Consequences of Altering God’s Word
Altering God’s Word can lead to severe consequences. As believers, we have been entrusted with the responsibility of sharing scripture accurately. Anytime we try to modify or manipulate God’s message to fit our desires, we are risking the integrity of God’s Word. Changes, even subtle ones, can lead to misunderstandings and misrepresentations of God’s character and intentions. The scripture serves as our compass in times of uncertainty, but if we change its course, we might lose our way. We must choose to hold tightly to what was given to us, making sure we don’t cause others to stumble or fall away from truth. Staying true to God’s Word is vital for our faith and for sharing His love with the world.
1 Peter 1:24-25
“For, ‘All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord endures forever.’ And this is the word that was preached to you.” – 1 Peter 1:24-25
Matthew 15:6
“Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition.” – Matthew 15:6
Jeremiah 26:2
“Thus says the Lord: Stand in the court of the Lord’s house and speak to all the cities of Judah that come to worship in the house of the Lord all the words that I command you to speak to them; do not hold back a word.” – Jeremiah 26:2
Isaiah 40:8
“The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” – Isaiah 40:8
Proverbs 4:2
“I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.” – Proverbs 4:2
The Bible provides us with a clear message intended to guide our lives and hearts towards God. By changing or twisting these messages, we diminish their true significance in our spiritual lives. God’s Word presents the gospel – a message of love, forgiveness, and redemption. To alter this core message is to change what it means to live as followers of Christ. Instead of focusing on personal gain or preferences, let’s embrace and transmit the pure essence of the gospel that draws people closer to Him. Together, we can commit to engaging with God’s Word as it is, allowing its truth to resonate within us and shine through our actions and decisions.
John 14:6
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'” – John 14:6
Romans 1:16
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” – Romans 1:16
2 Corinthians 4:2
“Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God.” – 2 Corinthians 4:2
Luke 4:18-19
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” – Luke 4:18-19
Philippians 1:27
“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” – Philippians 1:27
The Call to Teach God’s Word Accurately
As followers of Christ, we have a responsibility to share God’s Word without distortion or alteration. We are called to be messengers of truth, entrusted with conveying the teachings of Christ accurately. This means putting in the effort to understand scripture deeply and ensuring we present it faithfully to others. Teaching God’s Word is a sacred opportunity, and when we take this task lightly, we risk misleading others. Together, let’s commit to a thorough understanding and a genuine passion for sharing the pure Word that has the power to change hearts and lives. Let’s inspire one another to rise up to the task of teaching and spreading His truth.
James 3:1
“Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” – James 3:1
Titus 2:1
“You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine.” – Titus 2:1
Acts 17:11
“Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” – Acts 17:11
1 Timothy 4:13
“Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.” – 1 Timothy 4:13
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:16
The Consistency of God’s Word Through Generations
God’s Word has stood the test of time. Across history and generations, the integrity of the Bible remains unshaken. The consistency of its message is a powerful testimony to its divine origins. When we seek to change or alter what has been established through time, we are inviting uncertainty and confusion. The stability of God’s Word offers an anchor for our faith and assurance that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. By embracing its timeless truth, we can inspire others to trust in God as we share the unwavering foundation on which our faith is built.
Psalm 119:89
“Your word, Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.” – Psalm 119:89
Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8
Matthew 24:35
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” – Matthew 24:35
Isaiah 55:11
“So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” – Isaiah 55:11
Psalm 12:6
“And the words of the Lord are flawless, like silver purified in a crucible, like gold refined seven times.” – Psalm 12:6
The Power of God’s Word in Our Lives
God’s Word holds immense power in our lives. When we allow it to shape and guide our decisions, we experience transformation and divine wisdom. Changing God’s Word means losing that transformative power, which is vital for living a life aligned with His plans. As we study and accept scripture, we become more equipped to face life’s challenges and trials. We should strive to immerse ourselves in God’s truth rather than seeking to manipulate it to our advantage. Instead of changing His Word, let us pray for the strength to apply it to our hearts and live in accordance with His teachings.
Hebrews 4:12
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” – Hebrews 4:12
Romans 10:17
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105
John 8:31-32
“To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.'” – John 8:31-32
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the importance of not changing the Word of God, it’s vital to realize that His message is meant to guide us and bring us closer to Him. By preserving the truth of scripture, we can help one another grow in faith and wisdom. Let’s encourage each other to dig deeper into God’s Word and share its pure teachings with those around us.
We are called to be stewards of His Word and share the essence of His love and grace without distortion. This means living out the truth of scripture in ways that inspire others and lead them to a meaningful relationship with Jesus. The scripture is a gift, and it’s up to us to handle it with care and respect.
If you want to explore more profound teachings about the lies that can be found in our lives, I encourage you to check out some insightful resources, such as the Bible verses about lies and deception and bible verses about lies of the enemy. Together, let’s keep growing and encouraging one another in faith.