Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 6
Paul says, “the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord” (1 Cor 14:37), and the speaker uses that to argue apostolic writings should be viewed as Scripture; where do Christians today subtly treat apostolic “commandments of the Lord” as negotiable advice, and what heart-motives usually drive that?
Another way to ask: Where do Christians today treat the apostles’ instructions as optional instead of as the Lord’s commands? What desires or fears usually make us do that?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The transcript doesn’t list modern examples directly, but it implies Christians become selective when apostolic writings confront their preferences, treating “commandments of the Lord” as optional. A reasonable inference from the speaker’s comments is that the motives often include desire for autonomy, discomfort with authority, and assumptions shaped by anti-supernatural or anti-apostolic thinking.
- Paul’s claim is explicit: “the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord” (1 Cor 14:37), which the speaker says “establishes our understanding of New Testament scripture.”
- He argues apostles were “uniquely tasked with founding the church,” including “establishing doctrine,” not merely offering helpful advice.
- He notes some modern positions treat parts of apostolic teaching as culturally outdated (he gives an example: some think Paul’s views on “the role of women in church leadership” are something “we’ve moved past”).
- He explains that liberal approaches often begin with rejecting supernatural authority and seeing doctrine as something that “evolved through time.”
- The opening prayer confesses believers can get “sidetracked and selfish,” which fits the idea that selective obedience often comes from the heart, not just the mind.