How Does the New Testament communicate Authority?
If the New Testament is the written record of Christ's authority, how do we recognize what it teaches? Does God communicate His will in only one way?
The answer is no. Like every other form of communication, the New Testament teaches in several ways. Sometimes it gives direct commands. Sometimes it records approved examples for Christians to follow. At other times it teaches by necessary conclusion, where the evidence leads to an unavoidable understanding even though every detail is not stated.
We use these same forms of communication every day.
If a sign says, "No Parking," we understand the command.
If a recipe says, "Bake at 350° for 30 minutes," we follow the instructions.
If you walk into a restaurant and every table is occupied except one, no one has to tell you that you may sit there. The circumstances lead you to an obvious conclusion.
The New Testament communicates in much the same way.
Jesus often gave direct commands. The book of Acts records how the early Christians responded to those commands. The letters explain and apply those teachings to the churches. Together they show us not only what Christ taught but also how His followers understood and practiced His teaching.
These are not three different sources of authority. They are simply three common ways that language communicates. We recognize them naturally in everyday life because they are part of normal human communication.
Of course, not every example in Scripture is intended to be followed. Some examples describe faithful obedience. Others record human failure. Context always determines whether an example is intended to teach or merely to describe an event.
Likewise, not every conclusion we draw is a necessary conclusion. Some conclusions are merely possible. Others are unavoidable because they arise directly from what the text says. Careful Bible study seeks to distinguish between the two.
The important point is this:
God expects us to understand the way language communicates. As we respect the text, its context, and the author's purpose, we become better able to recognize Christ's authority in Scripture.
Continue Your Study
What Is the Silence of Scripture?
When God tells us what He wants, what should we conclude about what He has not said? Does silence authorize, forbid, or depend on the context?
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Companion Video
How Does the New Testament Communicate Authority?
Read First. Conclude Later.