“Jesus answered them, ‘You are mistaken, because you don’t know the Scriptures or the power of God.’” (v. 29)

A tough question comes up. It’s about life and obedience and what it all might mean in heaven. And, honestly, it’s a trap: Can we catch Jesus in heresy or error or liberalism?

The Lord, of course, answers the challenge deftly.

But don’t miss the preamble to His teaching:

“You are mistaken, because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.”

Every confusion comes from everywhere else. All our mistaken beliefs come from all the other voices. When opinion and interpretation and populism drive the doctrine bus, doctrine departs its intended route.

We find ourselves—and Jesus finds us—mistaken when we don’t know, don’t cling to, and don’t wholly depend upon the Scriptures. The problem is compounded when we also miss the power of God, as His Spirit brings the Word to life—and as He gives life through its promises. If we don’t know the Bible, we don’t know truth and we don’t know God.

You and I don’t have to live confused. Our doctrine doesn’t have to be vague or contradictory or wishy-washy. We don’t have to stay mistaken.

Know the Scriptures. Know Him. And know a life that is settled by truth.

— Tyler