In a world where traditions, opinions, and human creeds often overshadow the Word of God, there is a pressing need to return to the Bible as our sole authority in matters of faith and practice. The apostle Paul foresaw this departure from God’s Word, warning: “The time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance with their own desires” (2 Timothy 4:3, NASB). Sadly, this prophecy has been fulfilled in many ways, as countless religious practices today stray far from biblical teaching.
It is time to heed the call to go “Back to the Bible”—to rediscover its authority, embrace its plan of salvation, and follow its guidance in every aspect of life.
Back to the Bible as the Only Authority in Religion
The Bible is God’s complete and final revelation to mankind. It is not merely one authority among many—it is the only authority. Paul wrote, “All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17, NASB).
Despite this clear teaching, many have replaced the authority of Scripture with creeds, councils, and human traditions. Jesus warned against such practices, saying: “You have invalidated the word of God for the sake of your tradition” (Matthew 15:6, NASB). True faith requires respect for God’s Word as the ultimate standard.
The Bible provides everything we need for life and godliness. John, writing in Revelation, gives a stern warning: “I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book” (Revelation 22:18, NASB). The Bible is complete, sufficient, and authoritative. We must not add to it or take away from it.
Jesus’ Great Commission affirms this authority. He commanded His disciples: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations” (Matthew 28:18-19, NASB). This divine authority should guide all aspects of our faith and worship.
Back to the Bible for the Lord’s Plan of Salvation
The Bible also provides the only true plan for salvation. Unfortunately, many have distorted this plan, teaching doctrines such as “faith only” or “obedience is unnecessary.” These teachings contradict Scripture. James clearly states: “You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone” (James 2:24, NASB).
Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of obedience when He declared: “The one who has believed and has been baptized will be saved; but the one who has not believed will be condemned” (Mark 16:16, NASB). Baptism is not optional—it is a command of Christ and an essential part of God’s plan for salvation. Peter reinforced this truth on the Day of Pentecost when he told the crowd: “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins” (Acts 2:38, NASB).
Paul also describes baptism as the moment when we are united with Christ. He writes: “Therefore, we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4, NASB).
God’s plan of salvation is simple, yet profound: hear the Word, believe in Jesus, repent of sins, confess Christ as Lord, and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins. Any deviation from this plan is a departure from the Bible.
Back to the Bible for a Religious Name
Another area where many have strayed from the Bible is in the use of names. The New Testament clearly identifies followers of Christ as “Christians.” The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch (Acts 11:26), and Paul sought to persuade others to become Christians (Acts 26:28). Peter also wrote: “If anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name” (1 Peter 4:16, NASB).
Despite this biblical name, countless denominational labels and titles have emerged over the centuries. Paul condemned such divisions, asking: “Has Christ been divided? Paul was not crucified for you, was he? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?” (1 Corinthians 1:13, NASB). There is no biblical basis for identifying as anything other than a Christian.
The Bible calls us to unity in Christ, not division through man-made names and sects. As Paul urged: “Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10, NASB).
Conclusion: Take Pride in Being a Christian
Returning to the Bible means honoring its authority, following God’s plan of salvation, and wearing only the name of Christ. As Christians, we must take pride in this identity. It is not a denominational label or a cultural tradition—it is a reflection of our relationship with Jesus.
Let us remember the words of Peter: “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God” (1 Peter 4:11, NASB). May we reject human creeds, traditions, and practices that contradict Scripture and instead hold fast to the Word of God.
The plea is simple: Back to the Bible. Let it guide our worship, our salvation, and our identity. By doing so, we can glorify God and stand firm in His truth. Will you heed this call today? Let us return to the Bible and follow God’s Word completely.
The Simple Gospel 