What Does “Do Not Add or Take Away” Mean in the New Testament?
The phrase “do not add or take away” from scripture primarily comes from the last book of the Bible, Revelation. This warning emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of God’s Word. It serves as a crucial reminder for Christians about how to treat the teachings of the Bible, particularly those found in the New Testament.
Let’s dive into what this command means, why it is significant, and how it applies to our lives today.
The Biblical Foundation
The instruction not to add or take away from scripture is explicitly mentioned in Revelation 22:18-19. In these verses, John writes:
“I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.”
This warning is particularly serious as it carries divine implications. The verses remind believers that transformation comes through the revelation given in the scriptures, which must be preserved without modification.
Contextual Understanding
To fully grasp this command, it is essential to consider the broader context of the Bible’s teachings and the early church’s struggles with false teachings. The Apostle Paul and other leaders frequently contended with individuals who misled believers. They often twisted the teachings of Christ and the apostles, sometimes adding legalistic requirements or detracting from the essential truths of the Gospel.
For example, in Galatians 1:6-9, Paul expresses his astonishment at how quickly some have turned to a different gospel, which he boldly states is no gospel at all. In addressing this, he reinforces the necessity of protecting the purity of God’s message.
The Importance of This Command
Preserving the Gospel
At its core, the phrase “do not add or take away” speaks to the purity of the Gospel. Adding human traditions, philosophies, or interpretations can lead to confusion and distort the essential message of salvation through Jesus Christ. The New Testament is clear about the importance of faith in Christ alone for salvation, as seen in verses like John 14:6 and Ephesians 2:8-9.
By adhering strictly to the scriptures, believers can maintain a cohesive understanding of faith, doctrine, and practice. This preserves the beauty and power of the Gospel message, ensuring it remains untainted by human fallibility.
The Danger of Dilution
Modifying scripture can dilute its transformative power. When people start to add or subtract from God’s Word, they risk creating a version that is more comfortable to accept, but that dilutes the truth. For instance, making the message of the Gospel appealing by omitting difficult teachings or challenging aspects can lead individuals to believe in a ‘watered-down’ version of Christianity.
This scenario can be observed in various modern interpretations of Christianity that attempt to remove elements of sin or the need for repentance. While these approaches may attract followers, they ultimately rob people of the full truth found in Christ.
Application in Everyday Life
Staying Rooted in Scripture
For Christians today, the command to “not add or take away” serves as a guiding principle. To truly understand God’s Word, it is essential to study the Bible diligently. Engaging with scripture through reading, prayer, and studying helps to discern the original message. Bible study groups, faithful teachers, and theological resources can aid believers in unpacking biblical truths without straying from the text.
Believers should also compare interpretations of scripture with the Bible itself. If a teaching conflicts with what is written, it may be a sign to tread carefully.
A Community of Accountability
Another critical aspect of following this command is being in a community of accountability. Surrounding oneself with other Christians who prioritize biblical integrity fosters an environment where the purity of the Gospel can thrive. This community can challenge each other’s understandings and ensure that no one is inadvertently adding to or taking away from the message.
Consider forming or joining small study groups dedicated to exploring scripture in its entirety while prioritizing sound doctrine. Allowing others to speak into personal interpretations can keep believers grounded in truth, leading to a deeper faith and understanding.
Embracing a Humble Approach
As we seek to obey the command not to add or take away from the New Testament, it is essential to embrace humility. Recognizing that our own understanding might be flawed encourages individuals to seek God’s guidance thoroughly.
Approaching scripture with an open heart allows the Holy Spirit to teach and guide us in truth. Praying for wisdom and understanding before studying can help to illuminate areas where we might inadvertently add our preferences or interpretations.
The Role of Tradition
Understanding Church Tradition
Throughout history, the Christian Church has developed various traditional practices and interpretations. Some traditions have significant value and help explain complex theological concepts. However, it becomes problematic when these traditions overshadow or replace key biblical teachings.
Tradition can bolster understanding, but it should never supplant scripture. Believers must evaluate their traditions against what is found in the Bible to ensure they align with the Gospel’s core teachings.
Balancing Tradition and Scripture
A healthy balance requires acknowledging sound traditions while staying committed to the authority of scripture. Believers must always ask themselves whether their beliefs and practices are biblically supported. Engaging with church history, understanding where certain practices originate, and measuring them against scripture can prevent the addition of human interpretations that may veer away from biblical truth.
Conclusion
The command “do not add or take away” from the New Testament remains as significant today as it was in biblical times. Maintaining the integrity of God’s Word ensures that the biblical message of salvation through Jesus Christ is preserved and communicated effectively. By staying rooted in scripture, engaging in accountable community, and approaching the Word with humility, Christians can protect the richness of the Gospel and avoid the pitfalls of dilution or misinterpretation.
Common Questions Related to Do Not Add Or Take Away New Testament
Q. What happens if someone adds to the scriptures?
A. Revelation 22:18 warns that God will add plagues to anyone who adds to the scripture.
Q. Can we interpret the Bible differently?
A. Interpretation is valid, but it must align with the core teachings of the Bible, avoiding personal additions or removals.
Q. Why is this command found in Revelation?
A. Revelation serves as a conclusion to the Bible, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the teachings throughout scripture.
Q. How can I avoid misinterpreting scripture?
A. Regularly study the Bible, seek guidance from knowledgeable leaders, and pray for understanding.
Q. Are all church traditions wrong?
A. Not all traditions are wrong; however, they should never replace or overshadow the teachings found in scripture.
Q. Is it okay to paraphrase verses when discussing them?
A. Paraphrasing is acceptable if it stays true to the original meaning without adding or removing key concepts.
Q. What should I do if I encounter a false teaching?
A. Address it directly with scripture, and consult trusted leaders or resources to clarify the truth.
Q. How do I know if a church is teaching sound doctrine?
A. Investigate their teachings against the Bible; sound doctrine aligns closely with scripture and maintains its integrity.
Q. Can I use modern translations of the Bible?
A. Yes, many modern translations accurately convey scripture, but ensure they are reliable and respected translations.
Q. What role does the Holy Spirit play in understanding scripture?
A. The Holy Spirit guides and illuminates understanding, helping believers discern truth from falsehood in scripture.