A “record” is a “register; chronicle; something preserved in writing; a testimony.” There are government records, military, school, legal, courthouse, and statistical records. Records are considered factual, authoritative, and conclusive. When a question arises, appeal is made to the facts of the record.

We have a DIVINE RECORD – a record of the mind and will of God. That record is Scripture (see 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 1 John 5:7, 10-11; 3 John 12; Revelation 1:2).

Unfortunately, often what men say is not according to the Divine record. Our concern must be what God says, not what man thinks. Notice some popular sentiments that are not according to the record!

1. Men say, “Jesus was only a good man, nothing more,” BUT, FOR THE RECORD, the Bible teaches Jesus is the Son of God (John 1:32, 34; Matthew 16:16; John 20:30-31; Matthew 17:5).

2. Men say “Salvation is by faith only – Just believe,” BUT, FOR THE RECORD, the Bible teaches we must do something to be saved (Matthew 7:21-23; 1 Peter 1:22; Hebrews 5:8-9; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).

3. Men say, “It’s not really important what you believe – doctrine doesn’t matter,” BUT, FOR THE RECORD, the Bible teaches that true doctrine is essential and vital (John 8:31-32; Matthew 28:20; 1 Corinthians 12:20).

4. Men say, “One church is as good as another - Join the church of your choice,” BUT, FOR THE RECORD, the Bible teaches Jesus built one church (Matthew 16:13-18; Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:4; 1 Corinthians 12:20).

5. Men say, “We’re all headed for the same place – there are many ways to heaven,” BUT, FOR THE RECORD, the Bible teaches there is but one way (Matthew 7:13-14; John 14:6).

6. Men say, “Baptism is just an outward sign of inward grace, and it is not necessary for salvation,” BUT, FOR THE RECORD, the Bible teaches baptism is essential, it is for the remission of sins, and puts one into Christ ( Mark 16:16;Acts 2:38; 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21).

7. Men say, “How one live3s isn’t important – God will accept all people regardless,” BUT, FOR THE RECORD, the Bible teaches the necessity of holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16; 1 Corinthians 6:9:11).

      So, look at any religious matter and ask, Is it from Heaven, or from men? (Matthew 21:23-25). How to tell? Consult the record!               

 -John M. Brown