Day 38: The Clarity of Scripture, An Open Door

Scripture
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105 ESV

“For this commandment that I command you today is not too hard for you, neither is it far off. It is not in heaven, that you should say, ‘Who will ascend to heaven for us and bring it to us, that we may hear it and do it?’ Neither is it beyond the sea, that you should say, ‘Who will go over the sea for us and bring it to us, that we may hear it and do it?’ But the word is very near you. It is in your mouth and in your heart, so that you can do it.” Deuteronomy 30:11–14 ESV

Confessional Summary
The clarity of Scripture, also called perspicuity, means that what God requires for salvation and faithful living is plainly taught in the Bible. God did not hide the way of salvation behind technical expertise. It is not a secret, but an accessible truth available to all.

The Westminster Confession of Faith affirms, “All things in Scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear unto all; yet those things which are necessary to be known, believed, and observed, for salvation, are so clearly propounded and opened in some place of Scripture or other, that not only the learned, but the unlearned, in a due use of the ordinary means, may attain unto a sufficient understanding of them” (WCF 1.7).

The Belgic Confession echoes this, stating that we receive the Holy Scriptures for the regulation, foundation, and confirmation of our faith. It asserts that the Word is so clear that even the blind can perceive the fulfillment of what is spoken in it (Belgic Confession, Art. 5, 7).

The Reformers taught that while the Bible has its depths, the message of the Gospel is presented at a level where any hungry soul can reach it.

Reflection
The nearness of God’s Word is one of the greatest comforts of the Christian life. In Deuteronomy, Moses refuses the idea that God’s will is a distant or hidden concept guarded by an elite class. He describes God’s Word as very near, in your mouth and heart. God intended for His children to know Him, He did not speak in a code that only scholars could decipher.

When the Psalmist calls the Word a lamp, he is highlighting its practical clarity. A lamp is meant to be followed, not just analyzed. The clarity of Scripture means that the main things are the plain things. You do not need to be a master of ancient languages to understand that you are a sinner in need of mercy, or that Jesus Christ is the only Savior.

We often claim the Bible is confusing because the parts we do understand are too convicting. It is easier to debate a difficult prophecy than to obey a clear command. Yet the gospel is clear enough to summon real faith and real repentance. Scripture is shallow enough for a child; deep enough to humble a scholar.

So, read with confidence. Your Father spoke to be understood.

Application
Do not let difficult passages keep you from direct ones. When you hit a hard text, do not stall. Read the context, then anchor yourself in what Scripture teaches plainly elsewhere. The clear parts provide the framework for the complex parts.

If you can understand the call to follow Jesus, you have understood enough to start moving. Focus on the plain commands and the clear promises of the gospel, and practice the ordinary means God gives: read, hear preaching, ask your elders, and compare Scripture with Scripture.

Prayer
Lord of Light, thank You for not hiding from me. Thank You for a Word that is near, clear, and sufficient for my soul. Forgive me for making excuses for my disobedience by claiming Your Word is too difficult to understand. Give me a teachable spirit and the courage to follow the light I have already been given. In Jesus’ name, Amen.