Journal Mk 13 (all references are from the ESV; changes in punctuation are mine)
Scripture: (Jesus): “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” Mark 13:31
Observation: The bulk of this chapter is about signs at the end of the Age (End Times). This verse is about the Unchanging, Immutable, Everlasting Word of God.
Analysis: A principle of the Bible that I don’t specifically think about much is the Everlasting and Supreme Word.
Even changes in particular words due to translating efforts doesn’t change the Word being the Word.
I must consider this: The Bible as we know it is God’s self-revelation—outside of Creation itself, Man doesn’t know, cannot know, the mind of God without the Scriptures.
We can know ABOUT God through creation: “For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.” (Ro 1:19-20)
Man cannot claim “I do not know God exists…” because creation refutes that argument.
But Scripture…scripture puts a narrower focus for me on the power and supremacy of God’s Word: “All Scripture is breathed out by God…” (2 Tim 3:16a) This Holy Word is effective at bringing the Mind of the Trinitarian God to mortal Man.
The psalmist of Psalm 119 is fluent in proclaiming written Law, Precepts, Doctrines, Testimonies, etc. as being God’s Word, and something to diligently seek and keep so that his life will be changed: “I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set (a purposeful statement) your rules before me. I cling to your testimonies, O Lord; let me not be put to shame! I WILL run in the way of your commandments…” (Ps 119:30-32a)
If Jesus’ words will not pass away, even if heaven and earth do, then I can trustfully dedicate my life into knowing Him through His Word.
Prayer: Father, I do not do this subject justice in 350 words. Make what I wrote stimulate my mind and thoughts so that I am prodded to seek you diligently today.
Bring revival.
AMEN