The Holy Scriptures
Christ-Centered Purpose of Scripture
Confessional Text
The entirety of Scripture centres on the person and work of Jesus Christ10, as well as our practical instruction for godliness as pilgrims and exiles in this world11.
Scriptural References
[10]
Luke 24:27
And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself
[11]
Psalm 119:9-11
How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word
All scripture quotations are from the ESV (English Standard Version).
Historical & Theological Background
Jesus Christ is the interpretive key to all of Scripture. The Old Testament anticipates Him, the Gospels present Him, and the Epistles explain Him. The early church understood that the entire Bible testifies to Christ and finds its fulfillment in Him. Yet Scripture is also intensely practical, providing instruction for holy living, wisdom for daily decisions, and guidance for the Christian journey. It is both theological (revealing who God is) and ethical (showing how we should live).
African Contextual Commentary
Many African Christians have been taught to read the Old Testament primarily as a source of moral examples or prosperity principles, missing its Christ-centered focus. This statement affirms that Jesus is the hero of the entire biblical story. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture points to Christ and His redemptive work. Additionally, as African believers often face the temptation to conform to worldly values or return to pre-Christian practices, Scripture provides clear instruction for living as holy pilgrims in a fallen world. The Bible is not just a book about heaven—it is God's handbook for godly living here and now.
Engage with This Statement
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