Some of our recent posts on Voices have proven controversial. Folks have strong opinions about SBC politics, racial reconciliation, and especially President Trump. I thought I would write a post that would be noncontroversial. In the old days, when William Thornton and I were young, pastors would ask their congregations to recite their favorite Bible verses. This was usually done during the Sunday night service. (You must be really old to remember those.) One by one the members would stand and recite their favorite verse and explain why they chose that verse. So, I thought we might do that. Surely, we can avoid acrimony in regard to Bible verses.
My favorite verse is also my “life verse,” 2 Timothy 2:2. “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (NKJV).A visiting missionary showed me this verse when I was in college. It has guided my life and career now for fifty years. I’ve lived this out in that I’ve spent my life serving in theological education, both overseas and here in the USA. I appreciate this verse because it emphasizes multiplying church leaders. I’ve tried to impart to my students the truths my professors taught me.
My dear (and long-suffering) wife always mentions. Proverbs 3:5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths” (NKJV). I testify that it has served her well. She has been an exemplary wife, mother, and missionary.
Well, what is your favorite verse? Please tell us the verse and the reason it means so much to you. I hope readers who do not usually respond will do so. I look forward to reading your responses.
2 Corinthians 5:19 “that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their sins against them, and has entrusted to us the message of reconciliation.”
This verse (and the whole chapter) reminds us of the power of the gospel message and the call of us as believers to share it with others. God has saved us and sent us out to share the message of salvation to those around us and invite them to be reconciled to God.
1 John 5: 13…These things have I written unto you who believe on the name of our LORD Jesus Christ that you may know that you have eternal life. I love this verse because it assures me of what I have in my Savior. I often quote this verse when I share the Gospel. This verse packs a punch!
John 3:30, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (ESV)
John the Baptist had a ministry that was on the uptick, but he deferred to Jesus. Everything I do needs to do the same. When faced with a difficult choice, I simply ask the question, “Which would would increase Jesus and decrease me?”
I (mis)use that one on my diet challenges.
Romans chapter 4 verse 5 now to him who does not work but believes on him who justifies the ungodly his faith is credited as righteousness
My favorite verse has always been 1 Chronicles 26:18. “At Parbar westward, four at the causeway and two at Parbar.” KJV
Can I get an amen?
Can we all agree to put Dave in time out?
Here’s you a sermon on that verse. Every has a job and everyone has a place in the service of the King.
If you have young sons Proverbs 12:22 is often appropriate, 22 Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.
Psalm 116:6. “…the Lord preserveth the simple.”. KJV. This verse was given to me by my pastor after I had wrecked a motorcycle on the race track near Dallas.
God is true to His Word. I’m 73 and still riding. His grace and mercy are great.
Hello Professor Terry. Thanks for asking!
Acts 17:11
“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”
Here’s the reason why:
https://www.baptiststandard.com/opinion/voices/double-check-what-your-teacher-tells-you/
Call it “Layman’s Perspective.”
I read the Baptist Standard article and it is really good. The Scriptures are infallible, but not teachers (even old professors).
Thank you, Professor Terry. You are most kind. Happy Independence Day!
Psalm 34:8 – O taste and see that the Lord is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!
Every time I have thrown myself on Him, He has proven Himself faithful and full of grace, especially when i have needed a refuge.
It is sad that there have been few responses to this post. It seems to me most Christians (including pastors) rather debate over controversial topics rather than post a Bible verse. Here is one of my favorites.
2 Tim 2:15 “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
I agree. I guess I should have mentioned politics or Calvinism.
Dr. Terry – thanks for the refreshing thread. It’s always edifying when the saints tell of their favorite verses, Bible stories, songs, answered prayers, etc. For me (now), Hebrews 12:2, “. . . fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” FTR, at a reception for Adrian Rogers after a Sunday night service circa late ’80s, I asked him if he a favorite Bible verse. He told me Psalm 34 and… Read more »
Randall, thanks. I’ve often preached on Hebrews 12:1-2. If there ever was a time to focus on Jesus, this is it. Our confusion and frustration with the pandemic can distract us from our devotion to Jesus.
Matthew 5:9, Blessed are the Peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God. I really like the whole passage because of the values that Jesus references there and declares them to be “blessed.” I’ve met a few genuine peacemakers in my life, people whose presence seems to calm things down, bring reassurance and resolve difficulties. It is the opposite of selfish. My Dad was one of those genuine peacemakers and over time, I’ve realized what a huge difference that made in the way we were raised and the blessings we received as a result of it.
Amen! May their tribe increase.