THE WHOLE COUNSEL OF GOD

Paul spoke these words to the elders of Ephesus as he prepared to leave them. He had spent about three years among them, and he reminded them that he had kept back nothing that was profitable (Acts 20:20). He declared repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ (verse 21), and he was clear that he had not shunned to declare all the counsel of God.

The word “all” is significant. It is tempting to preach and to receive only the comfortable parts of the Gospel: blessing, favour, prosperity and healing. But the whole counsel of God includes repentance, holiness, sacrifice, suffering, endurance, grace and glory. Paul warned that a time would come when people would not endure sound doctrine but would heap up teachers to suit their itching ears (2 Timothy 4:3). Partial truth produces partial results.

The writer of Hebrews uses a picture that fits our series. Milk is good for babes, but the one who lives only on milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness, for strong meat belongs to those of full age (Hebrews 5:12-14). Milk is where we begin, but we are meant to grow. A complete diet of Scripture produces a mature believer who can discern between good and evil.

Examine your own reading and listening. Are there parts of the Bible you avoid because they are uncomfortable? Are there areas of your life where you want God’s blessing but resist His correction? Embrace the whole counsel of God. Where the Word comforts, be comforted; where it corrects, be corrected; where it commissions, obey. Then you will be balanced, healthy and strong.