Dear Ones:
“Bedrock” is by definition, “… that solid rock that underlies soil and alluvium.” One of the characteristics of bedrock is that, because of its nature and consistency, it is able to support a tremendous amount of weight, and pressure. It is thus considered stable, relatively unmovable, with the quality of longevity or endurance. Now, how can we categorize faith as being “bedrock faith?” Is there such a thing?
On the campus of the University of Geneva, in Geneva, Switzerland, there is a massive wall, a commemorative tribute to the “Protestant Reformation,” which in a very real way, changed the course of history of the world. In front of that wall are four sculpted figures standing approximately twelve feet tall. These were men who played a major role in the beginning and expansion of the reformation. Each of the men, clothed in the garb of that time…the long robes, have each one a Bible in his hand. Their attitude towards the Scriptures was that it was the basis of all life and purpose, for in it was revealed the design and destiny of men, as declared by God. In those pages are unveiled for all men to see, the objective revelation of the nature, character, and ways of the Eternal God, and His personal, individual intervention in the affairs of men. The truths revealed in the Bible will become the directional basis for faith in God. The objective truth in the Scriptures directs us to the truth concerning the nature, character, …person of God. It is that foundation of truth that leads to bedrock faith in the faithfulness of God.
In Joshua 1, when Joshua had been commissioned to lead the people of Israel into the promised land, the Lord specifically instructed him: “…This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to DO according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” (Josh. 1:8) In Psalm 1, we find the psalmist writing concerning the righteous man: “…His delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” (Ps. 1:2) Both men saw that the knowledge of the truth, as revealed in the Scriptures, was essential to faith. Again, faith is directional, as it ultimately has its object in God, in Christ alone. But the knowledge of the truth, directs us in HOW to apply that faith. Faith in its application is specific. We trust for the specific thing, whether large or small. The Object of that faith is Christ alone, and this, only according to His Person as revealed to us in the truths of Scripture.
Jesus told His disciples concerning the Holy Spirit that they were to receive at Pentecost: “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and BRING ALL THINGS TO YOUR REMEMBRANCE, WHATSOEVER I HAVE SAID UNTO YOU.” (Jn. 14:26) Part of the ministry of the Spirit of God is not only to teach us, but to bring to our remembrance what Christ has said in His word. This is very important, as God’s word is applicable to every circumstance and need. But, what if we do not have the word of God in our minds and hearts? What if I do not remember what He said, or not remember clearly? First of all, the Holy Spirit will only reveal to us that which is true. A knowledge of the TRUTH, as it is revealed in Scripture, is essential. Secondly, the Holy Spirit knows WHICH specific word (truth) is applicable to the circumstance at hand. If we are to walk by faith, then we must put our feet firmly upon the immovable truth. It is that truth that gives us the direction we need to put all of our trust specifically in Christ. All of our hope and expectation then rests wholly upon Him. This is bedrock faith, for it is founded upon the immutable word of God, the expression of the immutable faithfulness, nature and character of God.
Love, Dad