#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin
Key Bible Verse:
“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone.” — Ephesians 2:19-20 (ESV)
Have you ever wondered why we trust the teachings of the Bible so deeply? Or why the words of the apostles carry such weight in our faith? It’s easy to question the authority behind the Scriptures when we live in a world full of competing voices. Let’s explore why the apostles were uniquely chosen by God and why their role still matters to us today.
Apologetic Insight:
(from Greek ἀπολογία, ‘speaking in defense’) Defending and explaining faith with reason and evidence.
The apostles weren’t just ordinary men; they were handpicked by Jesus Himself and empowered by the Holy Spirit to deliver God’s truth. As Norman Geisler explains, their authority was confirmed by miraculous signs and their direct encounter with the risen Christ—something no one today can claim (1 Corinthians 9:1). Scripture shows us that Christ promised to guide them into “all the truth” (John 16:13), ensuring their teachings were divinely inspired. Their unique role is further highlighted in Revelation 21:14, where the twelve apostles are honored as the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem. As Geisler and other apologists like J. Warner Wallace point out, the church was built on this foundation once and for all (Ephesians 2:19-20). This means their authority isn’t something that gets passed on or replicated—it’s a completed work we can trust as the bedrock of our faith.
Ephesians 2:19-20 reminds us that we’re part of God’s household, built on the unshakable foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus as the cornerstone. Their teachings, recorded in Scripture, aren’t just historical records; they’re the very framework of our faith, guiding us to know and follow Christ.
Encouragement & Application:
It’s okay to have questions about the Bible’s authority or why we rely on the apostles’ words. Doubts can lead us to deeper understanding! Take time to dive into Scripture yourself—start with the Gospels or the letters of Paul to see the apostles’ teachings in action. Consider joining a Bible study group or talking with a trusted mentor who can help you wrestle with tough questions. Remember, the foundation laid by the apostles isn’t shaky; it’s been tested through centuries and stands firm because it points to Jesus, the cornerstone.
Reflection Questions:
- How does knowing the apostles were uniquely chosen by God strengthen your trust in the Bible?
- What’s one step you can take this week to dig deeper into the teachings of Scripture?
- How can you lean on Jesus as your cornerstone when doubts arise?
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for the apostles who faithfully carried Your truth to the world. Thank You for building Your church on their foundation, with Jesus as the cornerstone. Help me to trust in Your Word, even when I have questions, and guide me to seek answers that draw me closer to You. Strengthen my faith and give me courage to stand firm on the truth You’ve given us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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