Discovering the Heart of God’s Message for Us All
Have you ever wondered what it means to truly understand God’s message in the Bible? Maybe you’ve heard the phrase “the whole counsel of God” in a sermon or Bible study and felt a little unsure about its meaning. In this post, let’s explore this important idea together in simple, everyday terms, and discover why it matters for anyone who wants to follow Jesus and grow in faith.
What Does “The Whole Counsel of God” Mean?
At its core, the “whole counsel of God” refers to the complete revelation of God’s will, His purposes, and His plan for humanity as found in the Bible. It’s like having the big picture of God’s story—from the very beginning of creation, through the ups and downs of history, to the hope of our ultimate future with Him. It’s not just a collection of rules or inspiring stories; it’s God revealing who He is, what He’s done, and what He desires for us.
God’s Comprehensive Revelation: Nothing Left Out
The Bible is a unified message, weaving together many books and authors into one grand narrative. Sometimes, it’s tempting to focus only on favorite passages or the parts that make us feel comfortable. But the whole counsel of God means embracing all of Scripture—both Old and New Testaments. Every part has value and purpose, even the sections that seem challenging or unfamiliar. By paying attention to it all, we gain a clearer and richer understanding of God.
God’s Eternal Plan: From Creation to Redemption and Beyond
When we look at the whole counsel of God, we see the beautiful sweep of His plan for us:
- Creation: God made the world and called it good. He created people to know Him and reflect His character.
- The Fall: Humanity turned away from God, bringing brokenness and separation. But even then, God promised hope and restoration.
- Redemption through Jesus Christ: The heart of the Bible’s message is Jesus. Through His life, death, and resurrection, God made a way for us to be forgiven and restored to relationship with Him.
- Ultimate Destiny: God’s story points forward to a future where all things are made new, and those who trust in Jesus will live with Him forever.
Throughout it all, Jesus is at the center. The Old Testament points forward to Him, and the New Testament reveals Him as the Savior and Lord. Understanding this Christ-centered message helps us see how all the pieces of the Bible fit together.
The Importance of the Whole Counsel for Salvation and Service
Why does this matter for us today? When we pay attention to the whole counsel of God, we find everything we need for salvation, guidance, and living a life that honors God. The Bible shows us who God is, how much He loves us, and how we can respond to that love. It teaches us how to live wisely, make good choices, and treat others with kindness and respect. Skipping parts of Scripture means missing out on the full richness of God’s wisdom and grace.
Preaching and Teaching: Sharing All of God’s Truth
Those who teach or preach have a big responsibility—to share all of God’s truth, not just the easy or popular parts. Sometimes, the Bible challenges us or calls us to change. That can feel uncomfortable, but it’s also how we grow. Faithful teaching means not avoiding difficult topics, but approaching them with honesty, humility, and love.
Practical Application: Living Out the Whole Counsel
So, what does it look like to embrace the whole counsel of God in everyday life? Here are a few practical steps:
- Personal Study: Make time to read different parts of the Bible, not just favorite verses. Try reading through a whole book, or using a reading plan that covers both Old and New Testaments.
- Church Life: Support churches and leaders who teach the full message of Scripture, even when it’s hard. Join small groups or classes that dig into all areas of the Bible.
- Honest Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions about parts of the Bible you find confusing or challenging. Seek out wise believers or resources to help you grow.
- Balanced Faith: Let God’s whole message shape your beliefs, actions, and attitudes. This gives strength and stability, especially in difficult times.
Conclusion: The Joy of Embracing All of God’s Word
The “whole counsel of God” isn’t just for pastors or scholars—it’s for every person who wants to know God more deeply. By embracing all of Scripture, we discover the depth of His love, the wisdom of His ways, and the hope of His promises. Let’s encourage each other to read, learn, and live out the full message of the Bible. There’s always more to discover, and God delights in revealing Himself to those who seek Him with open hearts.
May you find joy, guidance, and strength as you explore the whole counsel of God!
Minister A Francine Green
January 2026
afrancinegreen.com 