Authority In Religion

Introduction:
   A. If one can’t establish the Bible as the source of 
      authority in religion, there is no basis (standard, 
      rule, law) for a Bible study.

1. The “Necessity” of Authority.
   A. The Nation has chaos without proper authority…Israel, 
      (Judges 21:25; Proverbs 14:34).
   B. Business and Trade demand a monetary standard.
   C. Standards are needed in weights and Measures.
   D. Rules and regulations are needed for Sports.

2. The “Results” of Improper Authority.
   A. Are Feelings a safe guide?  Jacob believed the fasle 
      report of his son’s death and considered Joseph dead 
      for about 23 years (Genesis 37:31-35; 46:25-27).
   B. Is Conscience a safe guide?  Paul… (Acts 26:9; 23:11)
   C. Should the religion of our Forefathers be our guide?  
      Paul… (Philippians 3:5-7; Acts 22:3)
   D. Should one man on earth be the Head and Infallible 
      Guide of the church?  (Colossians 1:18; Galatians 
      2:11-14)
   E. Should one accept the rules of church councils, 
      synods, and conferences? (Matthew 15:9)

Conclusion:
   A. Religious Division is sinful (1 Corinthians 1:10-13)… 
      Who, or what is our Authority in religion? (Matthew 
      7:21-29; 28:18-20; John 12:48; Hebrews 1:1-2; 2 John 
      9-11).

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