The idea of teaching the whole counsel of God comes from the Apostle Paul’s words to the elders of the Church of Ephesus — for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27, RSV).
Depending on the translation you use, you might find counsel, will, or purpose of God. Where do we find God’s will, His purpose? — in His written Word. So, when we refer to the “whole” counsel of God, we mean the totality of the written Word — all of it — not just the feel good or easy to understand parts.
Attitude Toward Teaching the Whole Counsel of God
Notice in Acts 20:27 that the Apostle Paul said he did not shrink back or hesitate to teach them the whole counsel of God. While he didn’t purposefully set out to offend people, he was aware some would find the Truth offensive. He was not embarrassed by or ashamed of any part. He was not timid about saying what needed to be said.
The opposite of shrinking back is to move forward with confidence or boldness in proclaiming God’s Truth. Such confidence can be ours when we realize it is God’s Word we teach, not our own ideas.
Aim of Teaching The Whole Counsel of God
Undoubtedly Paul’s attitude grew out of His belief that “all” Scripture is profitable (2 Tim. 3:16-17). He didn’t just want people to know the Bible but to use it in their lives in positive, impacting ways. He wanted them to be prepared to face questions and opposition. He wanted them to have all they needed to stand victoriously.
The aim of presenting the totality of Scripture is so people can be “thoroughly” equipped, equipped, for “every” good work in all areas of their lives, not just some good in some parts of their lives. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness …” (2 Tim. 3:16-17).
Accountability Factor in Teaching the Whole Counsel of God
In speaking to the leaders of the church of Ephesus, Paul knew that he would probably never see them again. The Spirit had warned him of pending imprisonment. In looking back at his ministry, he said, “I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of any of you.” If the people went astray, it wouldn’t be because of him. The reason for such confidence: “For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.” (Acts 20:27) He gave them the Truth they needed to know.
When we have that same sense of accountability before God, we know that we must present His Word accurately (2 Tim. 2:15) but also not pick and choose what we’re comfortable with or what we think people want to hear. To meet the above mentioned aim, we must present both the easy and hard to understand parts, the feel good and not so feel good parts, the potentially offensive as well as the ear tickling parts.
In the next post we will consider the approach we should take in teaching the whole counsel of God.