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The Authority of the Bible

"The judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward." (Psalm 19:9-11)

"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)

"Then Jesus said....If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth and the truth will make you free." (John 8:31-32)

"..we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God.." (I Thess.2:13)

EBM desires to be known for our love for Christ and passion for Biblical truth, which we believe can be known with confidence and certainty to the extent that God has revealed and recorded it and to the extent that the Biblical record is accurately handled (2 Timothy 2:15).

EBM recognizes at least two dangers which seriously compromise God's truth and our effectiveness in the work of the kingdom. One is the denial of truth clearly taught in the Bible. The other, equally problematic, is the adding to the Bible other positions that are not clearly taught there (i.e. not accurately handling the written record).

EBM is serious about Biblical integrity, and will seek to tell the difference between what is clearly Biblical and what is simply cultural in a way that will drive our decisions and policies. Our desire will be to draw lines where God clearly draws lines.

As a result, EBM's goal will be to adhere to the following:

  1. Any problem solving or position taking will be preceded by the question, "What does the Bible, accurately handled, say about this?"
  2. When there is clear Biblical authority, we will take seriously our responsibility to follow that authority.
  3. When there is no clear Biblical authority, we will allow flexibility and freedom within our EBM family.
  4. While EBM may establish institutional preferences which seem wise for this ministry at this time, we will carefully present them as preferences.
  5. In the acceptance of candidates and the developing of churches, we will be driven by adherence to clear Biblical truth.