Bible Quote by D.A. Carson
““However hard some things are to understand, it is never helpful to start picking and choosing biblical truths we find congenial, as if the Bible is an open-shelved supermarket where we are at perfect liberty to choose only the chocolate bars. For the Christian, it is God's Word, and it is not negotiable. What answers we find may not be exhaustive, but they give us the God who is there, and who gives us some measure of comfort and assurance. The alternative is a god we manufacture, and who provides no comfort at all. Whatever comfort we feel is self-delusion, and it will be stripped away at the end when we give an account to the God who has spoken to us, not only in Scripture, but supremely in his Son Jesus Christ.””
About This Quote
Source Sermon: Grace and Truth, D.A. Carson, 2015
Understanding Scripture should be comprehensive, not selective; truth is non‑negotiable and provides true comfort.
In simple terms: Bible truth is absolute, not a personal menu.
Key Takeaway
Accept the whole counsel of Scripture.
Themes
faith
truth
comfort
accountability
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
theological
explanatory
When to use this quote
- personal study
- church teaching
- devotional reading
- apologetics
Key Concepts
theology
exegesis
spiritual formation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure you engage the whole Bible?
- What comforts do you find in difficult passages?
A Different Perspective
Selective reading can lead to shallow belief and eventual disappointment.
