In every course in secular education textbooks must be revised frequently and new ones written from time to time because the message changes as new information is learned. But this is not true with the teaching of the Bible. God’s final and complete revelation to man in the New Testament scriptures is as fresh and as applicable today as when it was given in the first century. The apostle Peter said that the Lord has given us “all things that pertain unto life and godliness” (2 Pet. 1:3); and the apostle Paul affirmed that the scriptures inspired of God are “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Not only do these passages indicate the finality of the New Testament scriptures, but Jude told us the faith “was once (for all – ASV) delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3) which would also indicate the finality of it.

The above scriptures show that God has given us the final revelation of His will to man and therefore will not change it. We now consider some passages which show that man is forbidden to change God’s message. The curse of heaven is promised to all who pervert the gospel and preach any message other than that which the apostles preached (Gal. 1:8-9), and which they have written (1 Cor. 14:37). To transgress or go beyond and abide not in the doctrine of Christ brings God’s disapproval (2 John 9-11). The apostle Peter added that those who wrest the scriptures (twist or change them about) do so to their own destruction (2 Pet. 3:16). Not only does God forbid the changing of the New Testament, but He did not permit the people to change the Old Testament when it was in force (Deut. 4:2).

The above post is an excerpt from the book, Success at Bible Teaching. Follow the link to learn more about the book and purchase your copy today!