Lesson #2–God’s Given Rule

Shorter Catechism Q & A # 2

Q. What rule hath God given to direct us how we may glorify him?

A. The word of God, which is contained in the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.

Memorize Q & A—Exposition

The purpose of God giving us the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments is clear by 2 Tim. 3:17. The Scriptures were “God Breathed” (2 Tim.3:16); men move by the Spirit (2 Peter 1:21); the Sovereign God wrote the words he wanted written through chosen men.

What does it mean?

Discuss “The Word of God” in light of: 2 Timothy 3:15–16 and Ephesians 2:20; and, “The Bible as the Rule to direct us” in light of 1 John 1:3–4 Discuss the meaning of “Inspiration”: “Under the name of Holy Scripture, or the Word of God written, are not contained all the books of the Old and New Testaments, …All which are given by inspiration of God, to be the rule of faith and life” [Westminster Confession of Faith 1. 2]. Scripture: 2 Tim. 3:16–17; 2 Peter 1:19–21.

What is our practice?

Being convinced by the Spirit that the Bible is the Divine Word of God, we desire to be taught the Word, to study diligently the truths therein. With purpose, we begin to apply the truths of Scripture to build our faith and live in accord with its precepts and commands.

Quotes for thought and discussion:

“The Scripture is our pole-star to direct us to heaven, it shows us every step we are to take; when we go wrong, it instructs us; when we go right, it comforts us; and it is matter of thankfulness, that the Scriptures are made intelligible, by being translated.” (Thomas Watson, A Body of Divinity)

“God alone is capable of speaking authoritatively on these subjects; and of all the world’s books we find that the Bible alone gives us on the one hand an adequate account of the majesty of God, and on the other hand an adequate account of the sinful state of the human heart and a satisfactory remedy for that sin. It shows us that neither laws nor education can change the human heart, that nothing short of the redemptive power of Christ can make man what he ought to be.” (Loraine Boettner, Studies in Theology)

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